Wat Phra That Choeng Chum: Footprints of Faith

In the heart of Sakon Nakhon town, near the tranquil Nong Han Lake, stands Wat Phra That Choeng Chum, a sacred temple revered for its spiritual significance and historical depth. With its elegant white-and-gold chedi and legendary Buddha footprints, this temple is a must-visit for anyone exploring Thailand’s northeastern cultural heritage.

History & Significance
Dating back to the 10th century, the site was originally a Khmer monastery. According to legend, four incarnations of the Buddha—Phra Kakusantha, Phra Konakom, Phra Kassapa, and Phra Kodom—visited this location and pressed their footprints into the soil. A Khmer prang was built to protect them, and in the 18th century, a 24-meter-high chedi was constructed over the site, giving the temple its name

The chedi appears on the provincial seal and even on the reverse side of Thailand’s 10-satang coin. Inside the viharn, visitors can pay respect to Luang Phor Phra Ong Saen, a sacred Buddha image in Chiang Saen style, cast in 1257.

Entrance Fee & Hours

Entrance Fee: Free
Opening Hours: Daily, 06:00 AM – 06:00 PM

How to Get There

From Nakhon Phanom: Drive west for about 90 km to Sakon Nakhon town.
From Sakon Nakhon Airport: 15-minute drive to the temple.
Local Transport: Easily accessible by tuk-tuk, samlor (three-wheeled bicycle taxi), or on foot from downtown.
Parking: Available near the temple grounds.

Must-Do Activities

Walk Around the Chedi – Circle the stupa three times to make merit and reflect on the Buddha’s teachings.
Visit the Buddha Footprints – Learn about the legend and view the sacred site beneath the chedi.
Admire the Architecture – The Lao-style chedi with its golden umbrella is a visual highlight.
Explore the Viharn – See relics, ancient Buddha images, and the revered Luang Phor Ong Saen.
See the Five-Headed Naga Well – A mystical serpent sculpture wraps around a water well beside the chedi.
Join the Wax Castle Festival – Held in October during the end of Buddhist Lent, this vibrant event features wax sculptures, parades, and longboat races

Tips for Visitors

Dress modestly: cover shoulders and knees.
Remove shoes before entering sacred areas (socks are allowed).
Visit early morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and better lighting.
Respect local customs and spiritual practices.

Wat Phra That Choeng Chum is more than a temple—it’s a spiritual landmark that connects visitors to centuries of Buddhist devotion and regional folklore. Whether you're seeking blessings, admiring architecture, or immersing in local festivals, this sacred site offers a peaceful and enriching experience.

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