Bueng Kan

BUENG KAN

1010TThhininggs stotoddoo Chet Si Waterfall Kaeng Ahong Wat Sawang Arom Bueng Khong Long Wat Phu Thok

o Wat Ahong Silawat Three Whale Rock - Phu Sing Thai – Lao Market Nong Kut Thing Phu Tham Phra Waterfall

Three Whale Rock - Phu Sing

CONTENTS HOW TO GET THERE 8 ATTRACTIONS 9 Amphoe Mueang Bueng Kan 9 Amphoe Seka 18 Amphoe Bueng Khlong Long 21 Amphoe Bung Khla 22 Amphoe Pak Khat 24 Amphoe Si Wilai 24 Amphoe So Phisai 27 Amphoe Phon Charoen 29 MAJOR EVENTS 29 LOCAL PRODUCTS AND SOUVENIRS 30 SUGGESTED ITINERARY 32 MAPS 34 USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS 38 TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES 39

Wat Phu Thok BUENG KAN

Thai Glossary Bueng Kan was once proposed for the establishment as a province in 1994 although Amphoe : District it was not approved at that time. However, Ban : Village Hat : Beach it was once again proposed and passed the Khuean : Dam approval of the Cabinet on 3 August, 2010, Maenam : River and announced in the Royal Thai Government Gazette and issued as an Act on 22 March, Mueang : Town or city 2011. Phrathat : Pagoda or stupa Prang : Corn-shaped tower or Bueng Kan is 751 kilometres from Bangkok and sanctuary covers an area of 4,305 square kilometres. Prasat : Castle It features a lot of attractions including waterfalls SAO : Subdistrict Administrative and mountains, with certain areas attached Organisation to the Mekong River and Borikhamsay Province, Soi : Alley Song Thaeo : Pick-up trucks but with Lao PDR. a roof over the back Talat : Market Bueng Kan is divided into 8 districts : Tambon : Subdistrict Amphoe Mueang Bueng Kan, Amphoe Bung Tham : Cave Khla, Amphoe Bueng Khlong Long, Amphoe Tuk-Tuks : Three-wheeled motorized Seka, Amphoe Si Wilai, Amphoe Phon taxis Charoen, Amphoe So Phisai and Amphoe Pak Khat Ubosot or Bot : Ordination hall in a Distance from Bueng Kan to Nearby Provinces temple Nakhon Phanom 175 kilometres Wihan : Image hall in a temple Sakon Nakhon 183 kilometres Wat : Temple Nong Khai 136 kilometres Udon Thani 187 kilometres Note: The English spelling uses the official Thai transliteration. Posted signs may be spelled differently, When seeking help for directions, point to the Thai spelling for each place name. Buengkan 7

Distance from Amphoe Mueang Bueng Kan By Train: A train service is available from the to Other Districts Bangkok Railway Station (Hua Lamphong) to Bung Khla 39 kilometres Nong Khai Railway Station, where tourists can Bueng Khlong Long 88 kilometres catch a regular bus to Bueng Kan, a distance of Seka 87 kilometres 145 kilometres away. For more information, Si Wilai 28 kilometres Tel. 1690, 0 2220 4334, 0 2220 4261 Nong Phon Charoen 45 kilometres Khai Railway Station Tel. 0 4241 1637 or www. So Phisai 55 kilometres railway.co.th. Pak Khat 47 kilometres By Plane: There is no direct flight from Bangkok to Bueng Kan, But there are many HOW TO GET THERE airlines operating flights from Bangkok to Udon Thani International Airport, then take By Car: From Bangkok, take Highway No. 1 a regular bus to Bueng Kan, a distance of (Phahonyothin Road) and enter Highway No. 2 187 kilometres: (Mittraphap Road) at Saraburi, drive through From Don Mueang International Airport Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, Udon Thani - Nok Air Tel. 1318, 0 2900 9955 or www. and Nong Khai before reaching Bueng Kan. nokair.com The total distance is around 751 kilometres. - Thai Air Asia www.airasia.com - Thai Lion Air Tel. 0 2529 9999 or www. By Bus: From the Mo Chit Bus Terminal lionairthai.com Chatuchak (Kamphaeng Phet II Road) in From Suvarnabhumi Airport Bangkok, there are many buses to Bueng Kan - Thai Airways International Tel. 0 2356 1111 departing daily: or www.thaiairways.com - Thai Smile Airways Tel. 1181, 0 2118 8888 - The Transport Co., Ltd. Tel. 1490, 0 2936 or www.thaismileair.com 2852-66. Bueng Kan Branch Tel. 08 9286 2596 - Vietjet Air Tel. 0 2089 1909 or www. or www.transport.co.th vietjetair.com For more information, contact Udon Thani - 407 Phatthana Co., Ltd. Tel. 0 2936 0072 International Airport Tel. 0 4224 4426. - Air Udon Co., Ltd. Tel. 0 2936 2735. Bueng Kan Branch Tel. 0 4249 1255 For more information, contact the Bueng Kan Bus Terminal Tel. 0 4249 2122. 8 Buengkan

Local Transportation 2333, 09 5169 0156, is available in town and In Bueng Kan town, there are Samlo Sky to other provinces. Laep, a three-wheeled motorcycle taxi and ATTRACTIONS three-wheeler taxi services. Amphoe Mueang Bueng Kan To travel to other districts and provinces, two-seat-row vehicles (Song Thaeo) and Thanon Khao Mao (ถนนข้าวเม่า) is located commuter vans are available; for instance, a by the Mekong River in Bueng Kan Municipality. commuter van following the route to Udon It is a place for relaxation, seeing views, doing Thani - Nong Khai - Bueng Kan - Ban Phaeng exercise, and organising events and activities (Nakhon Phanom). of the province. On the opposite riverbank is Paksan, a city of the Lao PDR. Along the Furthermore, a taxi service by the Phum Phat riverine road are various restaurants and Witsawakam Company Limited, Tel. 09 3565 accommodation. Thanon Khao Mao Buengkan 9

Thai – Lao Market (ตลาดนัดไทย-ลาว) is the Mekong River. Therefore, they perform a situated by the Mekong River on Bueng Kan ritual to pay respect to Chao Mae Song Nang Road, Tambon Bueng Kan. It is also called for protection from the water, and it is where “Talat Lao” since vendors from the riverbank local people come to pray for their success in Lao PDR. bring their goods including in business and a safe journey. vegetables, fresh and dried food, products Wat Buppharat Samoson (Wat Klang) (วดั collected from the forest, herbs, etc. The บุพพราชสโมสร) (วดั กลาง) was formerly the Market operates on Tuesdays and Fridays 10th Dhamma practice residence of Nong Khai from 6.00 a.m. to noon. on the Mekong Riverbank close to Bueng Kan Chao Mae Song Nang Shrine (ศาลเจ้าแม่ Municipality with the Ecclesiastical District สองนาง) is located in front of the Bueng Kan Officer of Amphoe Mueang Bueng Kan as the Hospital. The locals believe that the water temple’s abbot. deity was responsible for the annual death The principal Buddha image in the ubosot is cases of the people living on the banks of Luangpho Wat Klang, an ancient image made Thai -Lao Market 10 Buengkan

of brick and cement in the Lan Xang art style, about 150 cms wide across the lap, which is one of the most respected Buddha images of the Bueng Kan people. Locals like to come to ask for wishes to be successful in their careers and be safe from danger. Wat Si Sophon Thammathan (Wat Tai) (วดั ศรีโสภณธรรมทาน) (วัดใต้) enshrines Phra Phuttha Sophon Mongkhon Tai, which is a Buddha image in the Lan Xang period made of bronze in the posture of subduing Mara, the same characteristic as Luangpho Phra Sai in Nong Khai province). The locals come to pray for happiness in their lives, prosperity in their career, and good fortune. Wat Samakkhi Uppatham (Wat Phu Kratae) (วัดสามัคคอี ปุ ถัมภ)์ (วัดภูกระแต) is a residence of Luangpho Thongphun Sirikamo (Phra Wat Photharam (Wat Luangpho Phra Yai) Yannasitthachan), Ecclesiastical Provincial To get there: From Bueng Kan town, take Governor of Nong Khai, who is a meditation Highway No. 212, the route to Nong Khai. monk under the School of Phra Achan Man The temple is situated by the road on the Phurithatta Thera and Phra Achan Chuan left-hand side, 3 kilometres from town. Kunlachettho of Wat Chetiya Khiri Wihan (Phu Thok). Wat Photharam (Wat Luangpho Phra Yai) (วัดโพธาราม) (วัดหลวงพ่อพระใหญ่), He is a highly respected and merciful situated at Ban Tha Khrai, Tambon Bueng Kan, monk. People come to pay homage for enshrines Luangpho Phra Yai, a Buddha image auspiciousness in their lives. The sermon hall in a subduing Mara posture measuring 162 cms houses a sacred image of Phra Sangkatchai wide across the lap sitting on a rectangular that is 76 cms wide across the lap and is platform that was restored in 1994. famous for asking for prosperity in business and a happy life. The Bueng Kan people organise the celebration of Luangpho Phra Yai twice a year, which Buengkan 11

Nong Kut Thing are the third lunar month merit tradition, Nong Kut Thing (หนองกุดทิง), situated 5 called Bun Khao Chi. There are traditions of kilometres from the provincial city of offering Prasat Phueng (wax castle) and Bueng Kan, covers an area of 35.2 square bathing Luangpho Phra Yai, which will be kilometres with a depth of 5-10 metres. It is held in the week after the Songkran Festival. a biodiverse marshland providing a haven for People come to pay homage for their prosperity, over 250 species of aquatic wetland wildlife. career success, wealth, and safety. Only men These include 20 endemic fish species, 200 are allowed to pray inside the ubosot while species of aquatic plants, and 40 species women have to pray at the front door of of birds. the ubosot. The ecologically rich Nong Kut Thing is also To get there: From Bueng Kan town, take an important source of livelihood for the Highway No. 212, the route to Amphoe Bung local community of 2,000 households. Khla, for around 6 kilometres and see the It ranks Thailand’s 11th wetland of entrance to the temple on the left-hand side. international importance or Ramsar site. 12 Buengkan

Wat Ahong Silawat and Kaeng Ahong Wat Pa Ban Phan Lam (วัดป่าบ้านพันล�ำ), WatAhongSilawatandKaengAhong(วดั อาฮง situated on the bank of the Mekong River, ศิลาวาส และ แก่งอาฮง) this beautifully Tambon Wisit, is a Maha Nikaya Sect temple spacious temple, on the bank of the and a respectful place for Dhamma practice. Mekong River, Tambon Khai Si, houses the The temple features Luangpho Sila, a sacred Buddha image cast in bronze of Phra Phuttha Buddha image in a posture of giving a blessing Khuwanan Satsada, a replica of the famous carved from stone. It is 101 cms wide across Phra Phuttha Chinnarat. the lap and is highly revered by people in In front of the temple is believed to be the the area. It is believed that one, who pays deepest part of the river or the Navel of the homage to this sacred image, will have good Mekong. Its depth is 196 metres measured by fortune and be safe from harm. throwing a stone tied to a rope. A phenomenon To get there: From Bueng Kan town, take the occurs during the rainy season, in which the Bueng Kan - Ban Phan Lam Road and pass torrent swirls into a big cone. When it breaks, the Bueng Kan Customs Post for around 1 it sounds like water is seeping through rocks kilometre to see the temple by the road on and then disappears. The phenomenon the right-hand side. repeats when the next torrent occurs. This Buengkan 13

Kaeng Ahong happens all day long. The cataract is visible around 21 kilometres and see the entrance during the dry season between March-May. to the temple on the right-hand side. Legend has it that at the Navel of the Phu Sing (ภสู ิงห์) is located in the National Mekong lies a cave located underneath a rock Reserved Forest of Pa Dong Dip Kala, Pa Phu on the Lao PDR. side. This cave is opposite Sing and Pa Dong Si Chomphu, spreading Wat Ahong Silawat and is the Mekong giant over an area of 12.9 square kilometres. catfish’s habitat, as well as, naga’s rendezvous Geographically, it is a sandstone mountain at the end of the Buddhist Lent. Therefore, lying from the north to the south, which this is a sacred spot, where the naga fireballs covers an area in Amphoe Mueang Bueng Kan occur a lot. In the temple’s compound is a and Amphoe Si Wilai. statue of the goddess of the Mekong River’s Phu Sing resulted from the geological Navel, which is popular among the local change of the Earth’s crust in various forms people, who come to pray for good fortune comprising rock arrangement, and formation in money and love. of cliffs, caves, rocky grounds, and outcrops To get there: From Bueng Kan town, take in different shapes scattered over the area. Highway No. 212, the route to Nong Khai, for One can enjoy the sunrise and sunset on the same mountain. 14 Buengkan

Three Whale Rock - Phu Sing Interesting Places on Phu Sing Lan Tham Phu Sing (ลานธรรมภสู งิ ห)์ on a wide Pha Nam Thip Viewpoint (จดุ ชมวิวผาน้�ำทิพย)์ ground to the north of Phu Sing, there is a is a high steep cliff to the east of Phu Sing large red sandstone rock that looks like a lion overlooking the Phu Wua Wildlife Sanctuary, crouching beside the ground. So, this site is the Mekong River, and Para rubber called “Phu Sing”. Furthermore, the Buddha plantations of the villagers in Tambon image “Luangpho Phra Sing” is housed here. Chaiyaphon and Tambon Khok Kong, This ground is used by Buddhist monks and Amphoe Mueang Bueng Kan. villagers for praying and conducting religious affairs every year. Three Whale Rock (หินสามวาฬ) This gigantic sandstone formation on the cliff face Lan Tham Viewpoint (จุดชมวิวลานธรรม) is consists of three rocks that look like a family located to the east of Phu Sing and easily of three whales: father, mother, and calf accessible on foot. This beautiful viewpoint when seen from a far distance or in an aerial has the vista of the Mekong River, Pak photo. Thus, it is called “Hin Sam Wan” or Kading in the Lao PDR. and the Phu Wua Forest Three Whale Rock. complex. It is also a site to see the sunrise. Buengkan 15

Hin Chang - Phu Sing This is an outstanding scenic viewpoint to the River, and the mountains in Pak Kading, the east of Phu Sing. Visitors can see the views of Lao PDR.. This is also a viewpoint to see the Phu Wua Forest, Bang Bat Creek, Sadok the sunrise. A hermit or Ruesi once came Rapids, sandy beach of the Mekong River, to practise meditation here, so the place is and the mountains in Pak Kading, the Lao named after that. PDR. It is also a viewpoint to see the sunrise in the morning. Phu Sing Battlefield (สมรภูมิภูสิงห์) is characterised by bunkers, safety pitches, Tham Yai (ถำ�้ ใหญ)่ is located to the east of and spying channels of the communists in Phu Sing. It is a giant cave with a capacity of the past. Traces of fighting can be seen till 300-500 persons. In the past, it used to be these days. a lodging, safety place, and first aid point of the communists during their fight against the Hin Hua Chang (หินหัวช้าง) is situated to Thai government from 1973 to 1980. the west of Phu Sing. A rock looks like an elephant’s head when seen from a far Tham Ruesi Viewpoint (จุดชมวิวถ้�ำฤาษี) is distance. Standing on the elephant’s head- located to the east of Phu Sing. It is a large like rock, one can see a number of boulders rock in front of a high cliff overlooking the lying beside the cliff edge, which are similar views of the Phu Wua Forest, Phu Thok Yai, to a grand canyon. Sadok Rapids, sandy beach of the Mekong 16 Buengkan

Hin Rot Fai - Phu Sing Hin Chang (หินชา้ ง) is a large rock that looks Sang Roi Bo (สา้ งรอ้ ยบอ่ ) is located on the cliff like a half body of an elephant. It is near the to the west of Phu Sing. It features a lot of high steep cliff to the west of the uphill path large and small holes. Its name “Sang Roi Bo” to Phu Sing. The surrounding is covered with means a hundred wells, which resulted from bamboo. One can have views of Para rubber geological change and erosion by the wind plantations in Amphoe Mueang Bueng Kan and Amphoe Si Wilai. Hin Rot Fai (หินรถไฟ) is an important and outstanding point of Phu Sing. It is characterised by a large rock that looks like a head engine of a train from a far distance. Below is a source of water with boulders of unusual shapes. It takes a long walk to access this point. If one stands on the rock, they can see the views in both the east and west sides of Phu Sing. Sang Roi Bo Viewpoint - Phu Sing Buengkan 17

Chet Si Waterfall and rain. These holes are filled with water Also available here is a four-wheel-drive during the rainy season. The Bueng Kan City vehicle service to visit the interesting places Hall can be seen from this point. This is also on Phu Sing. One car can take up to 10 a viewpoint for a scenic sunset. persons for 500 Baht. Visitors are welcome to visit Phu Sing during 5.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. For Kamphaeng Hin Phu Sing (กำ� แพงหนิ ภูสงิ ห)์ is more information, contact Tel. 08 0196 1631. located to the north of Phu Sing. It features a high rocky wall as a result of erosion by the To get there: From Bueng Kan town, take wind and rain. Natural layers of rocks with Highway No. 212 (Bueng Kan - Bung Khla) to unusual patterns can be seen here. the Ban Khok Kong T-junction. Then, turn right to follow Rural Road Bo Ko 3007 for Lan Hin Lai (ลายหนิ ลาย) is a wide rocky ground 5 kilometres. See the direction sign to Phu with numerous small holes that are naturally Sing and turn left for another 2 kilometres to created. It is commonly called Lan Hin Lai. reach the Visitor Centre. The total distance The area is covered with grass, which will dry is 24 kilometres. out in the dry season and become green and beautiful again in the rainy season. Amphoe Seka On the ground before taking the uphill path to Chet Si Waterfall (น�ำ้ ตกเจด็ สี) is located in Phu Sing, is located the Visitor Centre where Ban Don Siat, Tambon Ban Tong. This very there is a campsite, restrooms, and shops. beautiful waterfall, especially during the rainy 18 Buengkan

Phu Tham Phra Waterfall season, originates from a stream of Huai Ka-am only in the rainy season. A monastic residence and flows along a high sandstone cliff to or Samnak Song here is tranquil and shady. spreadoveralongline.Thefallingwaterthathits Walking down to the rocky ground at the the rocks below causes a spray of water which back, visitors will find a valley with a deep gives rainbow colours when seen in sunlight. bottom of around 200 square metres where a So came the name: Chet Si Waterfall”, which waterfall flows down the valley. The waterfall means a waterfall of seven colours. is on a cliff of around 100 metres wide and To get there: From Bueng Kan town, take 50 metres high. Visitors can play in the pool. Highway No. 212 (Bueng Kan – Bung Khla). To get there: From Bueng Kan town, take Turn right at the Ban Chaiyaphon Intersection Highway No. 212 (Bueng Kan – Bung Khla). to follow the Rural Road Bo Ko 3009. Pass Turn right at the Chaiyaphon Intersection to the Ban Don Siat School and turn left to follow Rural Road Bo Ko 3009. Go ahead to follow the direction sign to the waterfall for the Ban Tong Intersection and turn left to another 10 kilometres. The total distance is follow Rural Road Bo Ko 4011. Pass the Sok around 55 kilometres. Kam Sub-district Police Station, drive on to Phu Tham Phra Waterfall (น�ำ้ ตกภถู �้ำพระ) is see the intersection and turn left to follow Rural Road Bo Ko 4015 to reach the pier for located in Ban Tham Phra, Tambon Sok Kam. a ferry service to the waterfall. The total Like other waterfalls at Phu Wua, it has water distance is 73 kilometres. Buengkan 19

At the pier, there are food shops and toilets. a large and beautiful waterfall which has water A ferry service is available from the pier to only in the rainy season. an entrance to the waterfall during 6.00 a.m. - 6.00 p.m. A round-trip ticket is 30 Baht The path to the waterfall passes Khua Hin per person. The 10-minute ferry trip goes or a natural stone bridge of around 100 along Khlong Huai Bang Bat and arrives at metres long, where a phenomenon of water the point where visitors must go on foot for disappearing under the bridge can be another 200 metres to reach the area of the witnessed. A walk up to the second tier waterfall’s first passes along a stream dotted with boulders. Following the stream on its left bank, visitors Chanaen Waterfall (นำ้� ตกชะแนน) is located willfindabroadgroundbyalargepool.Thereis in Ban Phu Ngoen. Originally, it was called “Tat another small waterfall called Bueng Chorakhe Sanaen Waterfall.” “Tat” literally means a place Waterfall, rushing down to the pool. where water flows. “Sanaen” refers to “summit” or“excellence.” Thiswaterfallhasitsoriginfrom To get there: From Bueng Kan town, take Lam Huai Sanaen. It is 100 metres wide and has Highway No. 212 (Bueng Kan – Bung Khla). two tiers with an interval of 300 metres. This is Turn right at the Chaiyaphon Intersection to follow Rural Road Bo Ko 3009 (Ban Chanaen Waterfall 20 Buengkan

Chaiyaphon – Ban Phu Ngoen) for 13 kilometres. Hat Kham Sombun See the left turn to the waterfall and follow the way for another 5 kilometres (the last International Importance in the 1,098th place 3-km dirt road passes along the villagers’ of the world because of the abundance of Para rubber plantations). The total distance nature as well as habitats of water creatures, is around 46 kilometres. waterfowl and aquatic plants. Amphoe Bueng Khong Long Here, there is also “Hat Kham Sombun”, a Bueng Khong Long (บงึ โขงหลง) is a freshwater long sandy beach, which serves as a relaxing lake covering an area of 12.9 square venue with inflatable rubber rings, banana kilometres. The lake has its origins in Phu boats and food shops. Visitors can enjoy Wua and Phu Langka. Its water flows into the Songkhram River and finally runs into the Mekong River. In 1980, the site was declared the Bueng Khong Long Non-hunting Area. In 2001, Bueng Khong Long was registered as a Wetland of Bueng Khong Long Buengkan 21

the view of Bueng Khong Long against the Sanctuary covers an area of 186.5 square backdrop of Phu Langka standing majestically. kilometres in Amphoe Bung Khla, Amphoe Seka, and Amphoe Bueng Khong Long, which To get there: From Bueng Kan town, take is almost attached to the border of Lao PDR. Highway No. 212 (Bueng Kan - Nakhon Phanom) to the Ban Dong Bang Intersection With an average altitude of 150-300 metres and turn right to follow Highway No. 2026. above sea level, the Sanctuary is composed Drive past Bueng Khong Long town for around of deciduous dipterocarp, dry evergreen, and 4 kilometres, see the T-junction and turn right tropical evergreen rain forests with partial to follow Rural Road Bo Ko 3009 (the route sandstone mountain ridges, stone yard, and to Ban Chaiyaphon). Go ahead for another 3 grass field and an abundance of wild animals; kilometres to reach Bueng Khlong Long. The such as, elephants, barking deer, bears, civet total distance is 96 kilometres. cats, pheasant, red junglefowl, monkeys, and several kinds of gibbons. However, due to Amphoe Bung Khla the limitation of only 40 square kilometres Phu Wua Wildlife Sanctuary (เขตรกั ษาพันธ์ุ of evergreen forest, it is difficult for large สัตวป์ า่ ภวู ัว) is situated at Ban Don Chik. The animals to breed. Phu Wua Wildlife Sanctuary 22 Buengkan

Tham Fun Waterfall At Phu Wua Wildlife Sanctuary, there is one reaching Bung Khla town, see the Phu Wua life form that can be found only in Thailand Wildlife Sanctuary Office and Tham Fun and the world, which is the “Phu Wua lizard” Waterfall on the right-hand side. The total (Ptyctolaemus phuwuanensis). This type of distance is 33 kilometres. lizard has a different lifestyle from other species; during the day, it stays in a cave or Interesting Places in the Phu Wua Wildlife rock hole, and goes out for eating at night. Sanctuary This place would be interesting for visitors, Tham Fun Waterfall (นำ�้ ตกถ้ำ� ฝุ่น) is located who love trekking and studying nature. in Ban Phu Sawat, Tambon Nong Doen. The waterfall is encompassed by a timber forest The Phu Wua Wildlife Sanctuary offers with a scenic view of the northern Phu Wua. reception houses, a campsite and tents for rent. A walking trail passes a rocky ground to the It is recommended to make contact at least 15 cascade which is seen along the long narrow days in advance, informing a request for porters channel on the sandstone cliff. There is water and guides, days for an overnight stay, and the only in the rainy season. number of visitors. For more information, contact Tel. 08 5330 7211 during official working hours. To get there: Follow Highway No. 212, and 7 kilometres before reaching Amphoe Bung To get there: From Bueng Kan town, take Khla, take a right turn for 4 kilometres to reach Highway No. 212, and 7 kilometres before Buengkan 23

the waterfall. The surrounding area is a sparse Hat Sida is a place where the Amphoe Bung forest. The walkway to the waterfall passes Khla people hold the Songkran Festival every a vast sandstone ground. The waterfall flows year during 13 - 15 April, which includes pouring down a sandstone cliff featuring a narrow water onto the elderly and distinguished crevice, which can be seen as long cascading people of the district. water. It has water only in the rainy season. To get there: From Bueng Kan town, take Chet Si, Chanaen, and Tham Phra Waterfalls Highway No. 212 (Nong Khai - Nakhon are located in the Phu Wua Wildlife Sanctuary, Phanom) and make a left turn at Km. 171- but in the area of Amphoe Seka. 172 then go on to an asphalt road for 2.5 kilometres. There will be a sign until arriving Viewpoint on Phu Wua (จุดชมทิวทศั น์บนหลัง at the path to the beach. ภูวัว) Phu Wua has the average height of 160-448 metres. It consists of several small Amphoe Pak Khat hills linking with the paths from each hilltop. From the viewpoint at the back of Phu Wua Wat Sawang Arom or Wat Tham Si Thon to the east, one can see as far as Phu Ngu (วดั สวา่ งอารมณ์ หรอื วดั ถำ้� ศรธี น) is located on in Lao PDR. There is also a spacious stony the rocky ground of a hill. It is shady with ground suitable for being a campsite. This trees and a small stream flows through ground used to be a helicopter pad of the it. The Ubosot (ordination hall) stands on American soldiers during the Vietnam War. So, a giant boulder. Down below, a reclining it was named “Lan America” or the American Buddha image is housed for the people to ground. It is recommended to contact the pay homage. From here, a view of Laos can officers in advance for a guided tour. be seen in the distance. Hat Sida (หาดสดี า), located at Ban Nong Doen To get there: From Bueng Kan town, take Tha, Tambon Nong Doen, is a beautiful white Highway No. 212 to Amphoe Pak Khat, there sandy beach with a distance of 2.5 kilometres will be a junction on the right and go for along the Mekong River. The place is suitable about 500 metres to the temple. for relaxation with its spectacular scenery, Amphoe Si Wilai especially in the middle of the Mekong River. Phu Thok (ภูทอก) means an isolated Across the beach is a long line of stone ridges mountain in the Northeastern or Isan that make a strong stream in that area. Also, dialect. Located in Ban Na Kham Khaen, there is the mountainous area of Phu Ngu of Tambon Na Sabaeng, this sandstone Lao PDR. cast along the Mekong River. range stands out and can be seen from a 24 Buengkan

Wat Sawang Arom Phu Thok Buengkan 25

Wat Phu Thok distance. It consists of two hills: Phu Thok Phu Thok is still a meditation practice centre Yai and Phu Thok Noi. Previously, this area and a place for the community’s religious was dense forest with many wild animals. affairs. Visitors shall be calm in manner and pay Because of its tranquility, Phra Achan Chuan respect to the place. The bridge’s stairs to the Kunlachettho, a meditation master, initially mountain top are divided into seven sections. established a meditation place here for Buddhists to practise the Buddha’s teachings. The first and second sections leading to the third section wind around the mountain, Phu Thok Noi is where Wat Chetiya Khiri which is covered by a dense dark forest with Wihan (Wat Phu Thok) is situated. This temple boulders and rocky grounds. At the end of is the starting point of a walk up to the top the third section, a left turn is a very steep of Phu Thok, via a wooden bridge winding shortcutthroughthechannel-likerockformation around the steep mountain. The bridge was straight to the fifth section, but a right turn built with faith by the monks, novices and provides a path up to the fourth section. villagers. The construction began in 1969 and took five years to complete. This bridge The fourth section climbs around the is compared to a path of virtue that leads a mountain and overlooks small hills dotting righteous person to leave a world and enter the ground below called “Dong Chomphu” into emancipation by their own efforts and whose area to the west borders Phu Langka determination. which is a rain forest in Amphoe Seka. Here, it 26 Buengkan

Bueng Kan Living Community Museum is a residence for nuns. The section is around forested hilltop destination. To visitors, this 400 metres in circumference and is provided may seem horrifying and too dangerous. with rest areas here and there along the path. Phu Thok is closed for visitors during 10-16 The fifth section has pavilions and monk’s April of every year. residences. There are several caves along the route to the sixth section. Many spacious To get there: From Bueng Kan town, take rest areas are available on the sixth section, Highway No. 212 (Bueng Kan – Bung Khla) to the Chaiyaphon Intersection. Turn right including cliffs; such as, Pha Thep Nimit, Pha to follow Rural Road Bo Ko 3009 and turn Hua Chang, Pha Thep Sathit, etc. right again to drive on Rural Road Bo Ko 3012 for 4 kilometres to reach Phu Thok and Wat To the north, visitors can see a natural stone Chetiya Khiri Wihan. The total distance is 47 bridge to Phra Wihan (hall) where the Lord kilometres. Buddha’s relics are enshrined. Here, a moun- tainous line of Phu Thok Yai can be seen Amphoe So Phisai clearly. Most visitors often end their walk Bueng Kan Living Community Museum here. Since a further move to the seventh (พพิ ธิ ภณั ฑช์ มุ ชนมชี วี ติ จงั หวดั บงึ กาฬ) is located section goes along the winding bridge which at Ban Khilek Yai, Tambon Nong Phantha. It clings to an edge of the high steep cliff, for was created by Mr. Sutthiphong Suriya, a around 400 metres before reaching the shady famous food stylist, who intended to adapt Buengkan 27

his family’s Thai Isan-style house to be a Apart from the Museum, tourists can walk museum for the new generation to learn or bike around the village to see and take about the Isan people’s ways of life in the past. photos of graffiti depicting the story of the Naga or serpents, which is considered an Inside the Museum, a display of rooms is identity of the Khilek Yai village tour. based on usage in everyday life; such as, bedroom, studio, living room, kitchen, etc. To get there: From Bueng Kan town, take Furthermore, there are products by the Highway No. 212 (Bueng Kan – Nong Khai) to villagers in the community for sale; such as, the Pak Khat Intersection. Turn left to follow woven cloth, basketry and handicrafts. Highway No. 2095, the route to Amphoe So Phisai, and drive on to Ban Nong Phantha. The Museum is open every day from 9.00 See the T-junction and turn right to pass the a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Entrance fee is 50 Baht Ban Nong Phantha School. Go ahead to the per person. In addition, the “Phalaeng” feast end of the road to reach the Museum. The offering local dishes for visitors is available. It total distance is 75 kilometres. is recommended to contact at least one day in advance. For more information, contact Tel. 08 6229 7626. Naga Graffiti at Ban Khilek Yai -Bueng Kan Living Community Museum 28 Buengkan

Amphoe Phon Charoen Songkran Festival in April of every year. The Amazing Water Lily Lake at Nong Loeng people have come to ask for Luangpho (มหศั จรรยบ์ วั รมิ บึง ณ หนองเลงิ ) is located at Phra Yai’s blessings and protection from Ban Santi Suk, Tambon Don Ya Nang. This bad luck and danger since ancient times, freshwater lake has red water lilies in bloom and their wishes have been fulfilled. Thus, during the cold season from November the Buddhists join hands in organising the to January of every year. The water lilies celebration fair twice a year, which have blossom in the morning until noon. There been observed yearly until the present. The is a boat service offered by the villagers for first event falls on the full moon day of the visitors to see the water lilies on the lake. third lunar month. (February) when there will be a Khao Chi merit-making activity with two MAJOR EVENTS Prasat Phueng (wax castles) as an offering to the statue. The second event is held during Red Cross Fair and Para Rubber Day Fair the Songkran Festival of every year, with the (งานกาชาดและงานวันยางพารา) are held in bathing ceremony of Luangpho Phra Yai. This front of the Mueang Bueng Kan District Office is considered a great annual fair participated in February of every year. Bueng Kan is ranked by many Buddhists. first among the Northeast’s Para rubber planting provinces. Therefore, the province has combined the Para Rubber Day Fair with the Red Cross Fair. The events offer knowledge of Para rubber through an exhibition and an exchange of knowledge of Para rubber, and include Matcha Kachat lucky draws and sales of various products. Luangpho Phra Yai Bathing and Celebration Fair (งานสมโภชและสรงน�้ำหลวงพ่อพระใหญ่) is organised annually to pay homage to Luangpho Phra Yai at Wat Photharam, Amphoe Mueang Bueng Kan, after the Wat Photharam Buengkan 29

Traditional Long-boat Race (ประเพณแี ขง่ ขัน LOCAL PRODUCTS & LOCAL FOOD เรอื ยาว) is organised in September of every year when the Mekong River is at high tide. The Local Woven Cloth race is divided into two categories: a local long In each district of Bueng Kan, there are groups of boat with 46-55 oarsmen; and a small long housewives weaving cloth as an extra occupation. boat with 15-25 oarsmen. Each year’s event Most of the woven cotton cloth is made into sees a number of long-boat teams from other loincloth (Pha Khao Ma), scarves, shawls, and provinces as well as Lao PDR. and Vietnam. ready-to-wear clothes; for example, Traditional Illuminated Boat Procession - Pha Khao Ma Dara Nakhi by Ban Sa-ngo, (ประเพณีไหลเรอื ไฟ) or Naga Fireball Merit- Tambon Ho Kham, Amphoe Mueang Bueng making (บุญบงั้ ไฟพญานาค) is a tradition of Kan. Tel. 08 4242 2524, 08 9575 3649. It is the Isan people since old times, which is woven cloth that is naturally dyed and practised at the End of the Buddhist Lent soaked in Nakhi mud to soften the fabric. Festival or Ok Phansa, usually on the night before the End of Buddhist Lent Day. Natural Products from Pha Khao Ma Dara Nakhi materials like banana trunk and bamboo are made into a raft to be fixed with wooden frames in various shapes and sizes. Worship offerings; such as, cloth, utensils and food including banana, sugar cane, areca nuts and betel leaves, will be put in the middle of the raft. After being lit, the raft will be released to float along the Mekong River. This is considered a form of Buddhist merit making, and Naga worship according to a belief of the people in the Mekong River basin. Pha Khao Ma Dara Nakhi 30 Buengkan

Products made from Lukyi Yak or giant velvet plum - Pha Khao Ma Sawang Phatthana Weaving - Lukyi Yak or giant velvet plum by the Ho Group of Ban Sawang Phatthana, Tambon Kham Group of Agricultural Housewives, Mu Bueng Khong Long, Amphoe Bueng Khong 1, Ban Ho Kham, Tambon Ho Kham, Amphoe Long. Tel. 08 1872 7504 (loincloth). Mueang Bueng Kan. Tel. 08 5007 2460. It sells processed products of giant velvet plum, Local Food brown rice, Manpu rice, etc. - Fish-processed Products. Most of them There is also a riverside homestay service are processed food from fish in the Mekong for visitors to enjoy a vista of the mountain River and freshwater fish in water sources of range in Paksan, Lao PDR., which can be Bueng Kan; such as, Pla Ra (fermented fish), seen clearly. Pla Ra Bong (fermented fish sauce), etc. The products are on sale at markets and souvenir shops in the province. Buengkan 31

SUGGESTED ITINERARY (3 days 2 nights) Day 1: (Amphoe Mueang Bueng Kan - Day 2: (Amphoe Mueang Bueng Kan - Amphoe Si Wilai - Amphoe Seka - Amphoe Amphoe Bueng Khong Long- Amphoe Mueang Bueng Kan) Mueang Bueng Kan) (Morning) - Phu Thok (Morning) - Phu Sing (Three Whale Rock) (Afternoon) - Chet Si Waterfall (Afternoon) - Bueng Khong Long - Phu Tham Phra Waterfall Phu Tham Phra Waterfall 32 Buengkan

Day 3: (Amphoe Mueang Bueng Kan - Amphoe So Phisai) (Morning) - Wat Ahong Silawat or Kaeng Ahong (Afternoon) - Bueng Kan Living Community Museum - Alternatively, continue to other connecting routes; such as, Nakhon Phanom, Nong Khai or Udon Thani. Phu Wua Wildlife Sanctuary Buengkan 33

ไป อ.ปากคาด Prasopsuk RoadPrakoWpisBeutraBnaamRruonagBduReonagdKManicRhoaai dRKoPaaraodsaMtcahoaiRRooaadd Mekong River To Amphoe Pak Khat Road Bueng KCahnomRosiandRoad BuบeึงnกgาฬKan (Thai Samakki Road) Thai Samakki Phadung Rat Road BaSmarnutingRatRatRoRaodad Samai Bamrung Road (Chayangkul Road) (Chayangkul Road) Kilometres

Bueng Kan Immigration Checkpoint Bueng Kan District Office Chao Pu-Ya Shrine Wat Buppharat Samoson Wat Si Sophon Thammathan Chao Mae Song Nang Shrine

212 Mekong River 212 2095 222 3007 2267 3009 212 2095 222 4015 2026 212 222 4011 222 3009 Kilometres 2026 2094

สถานทีท่ อ งเทยี่ ว Tourist Attractions 1. พิพธิ ภัณฑช ุมชนมีชีวิตจงั หวัดบึงกาฬ Bueng Kan Living Community Museum 2. วัดอาฮงศลิ าวาส Wat Ahong Silawat 3. วัดโพธาราม Wat Photharam 4. หนองกุดทิง Nong Kut Thing 5. ภูสิงห (หินสามวาฬ) Phu Sing (Three Whale Rock) 6. วัดภูทอก Wat Phu Thok 7. PเขhตuรักWษuาaพWนั iธldุสlัตifeวป Sาaภnูวcวัtuary 8. น้ำตกชะแนน Chanaen Waterfall 9. น้ำตกเจ็ดสี Chet Si Waterfall 10. น้ำตกภูถำ้ พระ Phu Tham Phra Waterfall 11. บึงโขงหลง Bueng Khong Long

USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS Provincial Public Relations Office Tel. 0 4249 2464 Provincial Office Tel. 0 4249 2452 Provincial Police Station Tel. 0 4249 0837 Mueang Bueng Kan Police Station Tel. 0 4249 1256 Bueng Kan Immigration Office Tel. 0 4249 1832 Bueng Kan Hospital Tel. 1669, 0 4249 1161-3 Seka Hospital Tel. 0 4248 9099 Bueng Khlong Long Hospital Tel. 0 4241 6180 Phon Charoen Hospital Tel. 0 4248 7218 Tourist Police Tel. 1155 Highway Police Tel. 1193 38 Buengkan

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES TOURISM AUTHORITY OF THAILAND (HEAD OFFICE) 1600 Phetchaburi Road., Makkasan Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400 Tel. 1672, 0 2250 5500 Fax 0 2253 7440 www.tourismthailand.org E-mail: [email protected] Open daily 8.30 a.m. - 4.30 p.m. SUVARNABHUMI AIRPORT Passenger Terminal, 2nd Floor, Exit 3 Tel. 0 2134 0040 Open daily 24 hours TOURISM AUTHORITY OF THAILAND, UDON THANI OFFICE 16/5 Muk Montri Road Tambon Mak Khaeng, Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani, Udon Thani 41000 Tel. 0 4222 1455, 0 4232 5407, 0 4232 6436 Fax: 0 4232 5408 E-mail: [email protected] Open daily 8.30 a.m. - 4.30 p.m. Areas of Responsibility: Udon Thani, Nong Khai and Bueng Kan Updated March 2020 Buengkan 39

Three Whale Rock - Phu Sing Information by : TAT Udon Thani email [email protected] Tourist Information Division (Tel. 0 2250 5500 ext. 2140 - 46) www.tourismthailand.org Design & Printed by : Marketing Service Department The contents of this publication are subject to change without notice. No commercial reprinting of this material allowed ​March 2020 40 Buengkan