Phrathat Phanom The sacred stupa is located in the compound of Wat Phrathat Phanom Woramahawihan. The archaeological excavation indicates that the stupa was built during the 7th-9th Century.
Legend says that the Venerable Mahakasapa, with 500 Arhats and rulers of other cities, joined hands in building the stupa and placed the chest bone relic of the Lord Buddha inside. Mirroring the Khmer architectural influence, the stupa has undergone many restorations.
In 1942, the temple was honoured as a first-class royal temple.The stupa is the real icon that nourishes the hearts of Nakhon Phanom’s people, as well as people from other provinces and Laotian Buddhists. It is believed that those who have visited the stupa 7 times will be considered the children of the stupa; and prosperity can be expected. Even once in a lifetime is considered auspicious.
On 11 August, 1975, at 7.38 p.m., after days of heavy rainstorm, the ancient stupa collapsed. The Royal Thai Government and people nationwide contributed to rebuild it in the former shape. The stupa was completed on 23 March, 1979. Besides the Lord Buddha’s relic, the reconstructed stupa houses thousands of pieces of precious items. Its crown is a golden umbrella weighing 110 kg.
The new elegant stupa, on a square base, is 12.33 metres wide and 53.60 metres high. An annual celebration is held from the 10th day of the waxing moon to the 1st day of the waning moon of the 3rd lunar month.
This highly revered riverside temple is located 50 kilometers south of Nakhon Phanom provincial capital on Highway No. 212, and is believed to date back more than twelve centuries. The more than 50-metrehigh pagodas is one of the most revered shrines in northeast Thailand and regularly attracts pilgrims. A museum within the compound houses many ancient relics.
Tourist Information Center
TAT Nakhon Phanom
184/1 Suntornvijit Road.
Tambon Nai Mueang,
Amphoe Mueang,
Nakhon Phanom 48000
Tel 0 4251 3490-1
Fax 0 4251 3492