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Introduction
Phra That Phanom
Nakhon Phanom, once the center of the ancient Sri Kotrabun Kingdom, lies adjacent to the majestic
Maekhong River, 735 kms. northeast of Bangkok. The lovely setting of the provincial capital is
enhanced by the rugged beauty of the jungled mountains which lie beyond the Laotian town of Thakaek,
on the opposite bank of the river. King Rama I selected the name Nakhon Phanom, city of mountains,
because of this outstanding geographical feature.
During the centuries, Lao and other ethnic groups
migrated across the Maekhong River and this is reflected in the local dialects, customs and cuisine
of Napkhon Phanom. Many unique folk dances, such as the Sri Kotrabun dance, regarded as the symbol
of Nakhon Phanom's long history and the Fon Phu Thai, Sek-Ten-Sak and So Tung Bung are performed on
special occasions. The custom of extending a generous welcome to guests can be experienced during a
Bai-Sri-Su-Kwan ceremony when a potent brew of home-made liquor is usually served. There are many
ancient religious monuments in Nakhon Phanom. The most highly revered is Phra That Phanom in That Phanom
District which dates back to the time of the Sri Kotrabun Kingdom.
Borders
Distance
| Distances from Mueang District to Other Districts |
| Tha Uthen |
26 km |
Si Songkhram |
67 km |
| Pla Pak |
44 km |
Wang Yang |
78 km |
| Phon Sawan |
45 km |
Ban Phaeng |
93 km |
| Renu Nakhon |
51 km |
Na Wa |
98 km |
| That Phanom |
54 km |
Na Thom |
103 km |
| Na Kae |
64 km |
|
|
Festivals & Events
Phrathat Phanom Fair
When: February
Where: Wat Phrathat Phanom
Phrathat Phanom Fair
The festival takes place in February or early March. The fair starts in the morning
with Buddhist ceremonies which brings Phra Uppakhup from the bank of Mekong River to
Phrathat Phanom Temple. Then there are worship ceremony of the Phrathat Phanom Stupa,
traditional dances for revering the Stupa, local product sales, local games and
entertainment at day and night.
Nakhon Phanom Illuminated Boat Procession
When: October
Where: In front of Nakhon Phanom City Hall
The illuminated boat procession or ‘Lai Ruea Fai’ event is a tradition related to
the legend about the end of Buddhist Lent which has it that the Lord Buddha spent
the entire period of Buddhist Lent in Heaven and returned to Earth at the end. The
event is held from the full moon day to the 1st day of the waning moon of the 11th
lunar month, the procession always illuminates the Mekong River in front of the city
hall and is a site to behold for locals and visitors. To pay respect and welcome the
Lord Buddha, Ruea Fai or fire boats decorated with flowers, incense sticks, candles,
and lanterns are launched on the Mekong River in the evening. It is also believed that
this ceremony will bring sadness and bad things in life away with the river. There will
be the boats which are impressively constructed and decorated along the Mekong River.
Thai 
