SI SA KET
Si Sa Ket, in lower Northeast region, locatednext to Cambodia. With long history, Si Sa Ketonce had prosperous culture since Khmer eraover thousands years ago. Moreover, there aremany ethnic tribes such as Suai, Lao, Khmer,and Yoe settled down here. Old town Si SaKet, formerly known as Mueang Khukhan, waslocated at Ban Prasat Si Liam Dong Lamduan,in present Tambon Duan Yai, Amphoe WangHin. It become a town in 1759, during Ayutthayaperiod. In the reign of King Rama V, or a rounda century ago, the town has been moved to thepresent location.It is also gateway to visit Cambodia. Theprovince has plenty of fruit, such as rambutanand durian, which are available at the beginningof rainy season.
Sakon NakhonThai Term GlossaryAmphoe : DistrictBan : VillageKhuean : DamMaenam : RiverMueang : Town or CityPrang : Corn-shaped tower orsanctuarySAO : Subdistrict AdministrativeOrganizationSoi : AlleySong Thaeo : Pick-up trucks but with a roofover the backTalat : MarketTambon : SubdistrictTham : CaveTuk-Tuks : Three-wheeled motorizedtaxisUbosot or Bot : Ordination hall in a templeWihan : Image hall in a templeWat : TempleNote: English spelling here given tries toapproximate Thai Pronunciation. Posted signsmay be spelled differently. When seeking helpfor direction, point to the Thai spelling givenafter each place name.Sakon Nakhon is a Buddhist town with fiveBuddhist stupas. Its history can be dated backfor three thousand years. Legend says thatNong Han town, or presently Sakon Nakhon,was built in 11th century when Khmer ruledthis region. When the Khmer lost its power, thetown was under the rules of Lanxang or LaotianKingdom. It was renamed into “Mueang ChiangMai Nongharn”. When the town was underSiamese Kingdom, it was renamed again into“Sakon Thawapi”. In 1830, during the reign ofKing Rama III, it was named “Sakon Nakhon”.Sakon Nakhon Province is 647 kilometres fromBangkok. It acquires total area of 9,605 sq.kilometres. and has 18 Amphoes includingAmphoe Mueang Sakon Nakhon, AmphoePhanna Nikhom, Amphoe Phang Khon, AmphoeSawang Daen Din, Amphoe Charoen Sin,Amphoe Ban Muang, Amphoe Kham Ta Kla,Amphoe Wanon Niwat, Amphoe Akat Amnuai,Amphoe Kusuman, Amphoe Phon Na Kaeo,Amphoe Khok Si Suphan, Amphoe Tao Ngoi,Amphoe Phu Phan, Amphoe Kut Bak, AmphoeNikhom Nam Un, Amphoe Waritchaphum andAmphoe Song Dao.Distances from Sakon Nakhon to nearbyprovincesNakhon Phanom 93 kilometresMukdahan 119 kilometresKalasin 128 kilometresUdon Thani 159 kilometresDistances from Amphoe Mueang SakonNakhon to other districtsAmphoe Phanna Nikhom 39 kilometresAmphoe Phang Khon 54 kilometresAmphoe Sawang Daen Din 84 kilometresAmphoe Charoen Sin 90 kilometresAmphoe Ban Muang 120 kilometresAmphoe Kham Ta Kla 109 kilometresAmphoe Wanon Niwat 85 kilometresAmphoe Akat Amnuai 57 kilometresAmphoe Kusuman 40 kilometresAmphoe Phon Na Kaeo 35 kilometresAmphoe Khok Si Suphan 22 kilometresAmphoe Tao Ngoi 28 kilometresAmphoe Phu Phan 33 kilometresAmphoe Kut Bak 56 kilometresAmphoe Nikhom Nam Un 99 kilometresAmphoe Waritchaphum 69 kilometresAmphoe Song Dao 109 kilometresHOW TO GET THEREBy Car: From Bangkok, takes Highway No.1(Pahonyothin Road) to Saraburi and turnright into Highway No.2 (Mittraphap Road) atSaraburi, drive through Nakhon Ratchasima,Amphoe Ban Phai of Khon Kaen. Then turnright to Highway No.23 via Maha Sarakham andKalasin, then use Highway No.213 to SakonNakhon. The total distance is around 647kilometres.By Bus: From the Northern Bus TerminalChatuchak (Kamphaeng Phet II Road) inBangkok. There are many bus to Sakon Nakhoneveryday. For more information contact:- The Transport Co., Ltd. Tel. 1490, 0 29362852-66, Sakon Nakhon Branch Tel. 0 4271 2860,09 3315 4483 website : www.transport.co.th- Nakhon Chai Air Co., Ltd. Tel. 1624, website : www.nca.co.thFor more information contact Sakon NakhonBus Station Tel. 0 4271 4945By Train: State Railway of Thailand operatesdaily train service from Bangkok to Udon Thani,where tourist can catch routine bus to SakonNakhon, 159 kilometres away. For moreinformation, Tel. 1690, 0 2220 4334, 0 22204261. Udon Thani Station Tel. 0 4222 2061,website : www.railway.co.thBy Air: There are two airlines operating flightsfrom Donmueang International Airport inBangkok to Sakon Nakhon Airport, as follows:- Nok Air Tel. 1318, 0 2900 9955, website: www.nokair.com- Thai Air Asia Tel. 0 2515 9999, website :www.airasia.comTransportation in Sakon NakhonThere are Song Thaeos, motor tricycle, andpedal tricycle plying the provincial town ofSakon Nakhon. They are available at manyplaces; such as, the Sakon Nakhon MunicipalMarket, Sakon Nakhon Hospital, and the SakonNakhon Bus Terminal 2.To travel from Amphoe Mueang Sakon Nakhonto other districts, there are Song Thaeos,6-wheelers, and buses available from the SakonNakhon Municipal Market and Sakon NakhonBus Terminal 2.Transportation from Sakon Nakhon tonearby provincesFrom the Sakon Nakhon Bus Terminal 2, thereare air-conditioned and non-air-conditionedbus services to nearby provinces includingUdon Thani, Nakhon Phanom, Khon Kaen,Kalasin, Bueng Kan, etc. For more information,Tel. 0 4271 4945.ATTRACTIONSAmphoe Mueang Sakon NakhonPhra That Choeng Chum (พระธาตุเชิงชุม)Situated in Wat Phra That Choeng ChumWorawihan, rectangular stupa is 24 metreshigh and decorated with 3.75 kilograms goldenumbrella. The stupa, or Phra That, has fourdoors put inside is fill with stone. It isbuilt to cover footprints of four Buddhasnamely Phra Kakusantha, Phra Konakhom,Phra Katsapa, and Phra Khodom or Phra SiAriyametrai (The present Lord Buddha) Itshistory is unclear, however, Phra That is consideredsacred icon for Sakon Nakhon. Next to the PhraThat is the chapel that houses Luang Po OngSaen, a sacred Buddha statue of the province.On Wan Phra or Buddhist Day, lots of Buddhistalways pay homage to the Buddha image atnight. The temple holds annual celebrationbetween the 9th and 15th date of waxing moonof January.Nong Han (หนองหาร)The huge and famous lake of Thailand acquirestotal area of 123 sq. kilometres. It is fed bymany streams before supplying to Kam Stream,tributary of Mekong that runs into the big riverat Amphoe That Phanom, Nakhon PhanomProvince. At the depth between 3-8 metres,the lake facilitates agriculture, livestock farmingand fishery of the people around it. There aremore than 20 islets in the lake such as Ko DonSawan, the biggest islet where deserted templeand ancient Buddha images are located. Lushforest on the islet makes it habitat for manybirds. There are pavilions of Ko Kaeo and Ko DonSakham where tourist can take a break. Ko DonSathung is surrounded with golden freshwaterweed which glows under sunshine.Somdet Phra Srinagarindra Park (สวนสมเด็จพระศรีนครินทร์)Located next to Nong Han, in Tambon ThatChoeng Chum. M other Princess, PhraSrinagarindra, has presided over the openingceremony on November 9, 1987. The park’scompound include an ancient pond, calledSa Phang Thong, which was built in the sameperiod as Phra That Choeng Chum. The parkcomprises beautiful flower and tree, junglearea, water park, rock garden, excercising areaand 69 metres high fountain. The park is openfor public use in botanical study. It is openbetween 04.00 a.m. – 09.00 p.m.Later, the Park was expanded to cover more areaof approximately 20 rai, which was also turnedinto a public park to serve the same purpose asthe main Park and sponsored by the people ofSakon Nakhon. The extended park was namedSomdet Chaofa Galyani Vadhana Park (known incommon as Suan Mae–Suan Luk) to celebratethe occasion of the 84th birthday anniversary ofthe Princess of Naradhiwas on 6 May, 2007. ThePark is open daily from 04.00 a.m. – 09.00 p.m.Phu Phan Museum (พิพิธภัณฑ์ภูพาน)Located behind the Sakon Nakhon Kindergarten,on Udon Thani - Sakon Nakhon Road, TambonThat Choeng Chum, displays the historicalbackground, way of life, and local culture ofSakon Nakhon. Inside the building are dividedinto different rooms, which are the overtureroom, the exhibition of “Amazing Phu Phan”,Isan seasonal flooded forest and swamp forest,Nong Han and the settlement of Sakon Nakhontown, room of Sakon Nakhon people, praising the King and the Queen room, exhibitionroom honouring Their Majesties the King andQueen, Land of Dhamma room, and outdoorsculpture. The Museum opens from Tuesday- Sunday between 09.00 a.m. – 05.00 p.m. Formore information, please call Tel. 0 4271 4853.Freshwater Aquarium (สถานแสดงพันธุ์ปลาน้ำจืด)Located on Sai Sawang Road, Tambon ThatChoeng Chum inside the Inland FisheriesResearch and Development Centre, establishedwith the purposes of the fish breeds productionand conservation in the Nong Han area, andpromotion of aquatic animals breeding inthe provinces of the Northeast region. TheAquarium displays and gives knowledge aboutvarious breeds of fish that were discovered;such as, Albino, Mekong giant catfish, tilapia,Siamese tiger fish, Clown knife fish, Greatsnakehead, and Mrigal, etc. Interested personscan visit from Monday - Friday between 08.30a.m. - 04.30 p.m. For more information, pleasecall Tel. 0 4271 1447.Sakon Nakhon Museum (พิพิธภัณฑ์เมืองสกลนคร)Situated at Building 1 in the Sakon NakhonRajabhat University, Nittayo Road, TambonThat Choeng Chum, features belongings, andutensils of several ethnic groups includinghistorical photographs, and art and culturalbackground documents. Open between 08.30a.m. - 04.30 p.m. For a group visit, please writein advance to the Director of the Arts, Cultureand Languages Centre, Sakon Nakhon RajabhatUniversity. For more information, please callTel. 0 4274 4009.The museum of Achan Man PurithatthaThera (พิพิธภัณฑ์บริขารอาจารย์มั่น ภูริทัตตเถระ)Located in Wat Pa Suthawat, opposite to CityHall. The museum house bronze statue of AchanMan Purithatto in meditation posture and theglass box that houses his ash that turns intocrystal. The display, including his tools, is placedin marble altar and his history is shown nearby.Achan Man Purithatto is a famous Buddhistmonk. Born in Kaenkaeo family, in AmphoeKhong Chiam, Ubon Ratchathani, he wasa novice when he was 15 and entered monkhoodat 22 at Wat Leap, Ubon Ratchathani. AchanMan always practice meditation on the trip toremote area and he had many followers such asLuang Pu Fan Acharo, Luang Pu Khao Alanayo,Luang Pu Waen Suchino. Achan Man moved tostay at Wat Pa Suthawat and passed away onNovember 11, 1949.Furthermore, the Museum of Luang Pu Lui islocated also in the temple’s compound. Themuseum is built to house ashes of Luang Pu Lui(1901-1989). This famous monk in Wipatsanais follower of Achan Man. He loved to travelaround until his last day in his life. His Majestythe King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX)presided over his funeral and mentioned“a pagoda to house his ashes should be built inWat Pa Suthawat, where the pagoda housingashes of Achan Man is located. For they can stayclose together.” His Majesty the King BhumibolAdulyadej (Rama IX) has designed the pagoda.Lotus Memorial Park (อุทยานบัวเฉลิมพระเกียรติ)Located inside Kasetsart University, Chalermphrakiat Sakon Nakhon Province Campus. Inaddition to serving as a source of knowledgeand recreational place for university studentsand the general public, the Lotus MemorialPark features a large lotus swamp located rightat the entrance with a network of red woodenboardwalks to allow visitors to walk aroundthe swamp and has a pavilion in the middlefor relaxation.There are 3 zones inside the Park; namely,1. Collection Zone featuring a collectionof lotus varieties in the form of a 10-rai lotuspond with 34 native as well as foreign varietiesof water lilies; such as, the Royal water lily orBua Kradong, Bua Sai, Bua Phan-Bua Phuean,and Bua Farang, with connected boardwalksfor visitors to closely admire their flowers.2. Specimen Zone displaying 74 varietiesof water lilies in pots for a closer study.3. Exhibition Zone at the ground floorof the Research and Development Buildingexhibiting the knowledge and background ofwater lilies including the classification of waterlily varieties, water lilies in Thailand, how to growand take care of water lilies, diseases and pests,breeding, farming, and uses.The Lotus Memorial Park is open during 08.30a.m.-04.30 p.m. on weekdays and 08.30 a.m.-06.00 p.m. on weekends. Admission is free. Forfurther information, Tel. 0 4272 5000.To get there: By car: From Amphoe MueangSakon Nakhon, follow Highway No. 22 boundfor Nakhon Phanom for approximately 19kilometres. The entrance to the Park will be onthe left, some 2 kilometres beyond the entranceto Kasetsart University. By bus: Take the SongThaeo routing Sakon Nakhon-Tha Rae and getoff at the Park’s entrance.Nong Han Viewpoint (จุดชมวิวหนองหาร)Located at Km. 168 on Highway No. 22, theNakhon Phanom-Sakon Nakhon route, theViewpoint is approximately 2 kilometres fromthe Lotus Memorial Park, Tambon Tha Rae. Thereare a number of pavilions for relaxation by thelake. Another 1 kilometre further along the roadis a concrete bridge spanning from the shore toan island in the middle of the lake, which is idealfor strolling and taking photos, especially in themorning and at twilight. It is open daily during06.00 a.m.-07.00 p.m., free of charge.There are also many other viewpoints of NongHan Lake that are frequented by visitors andphotographers; such as, the Tawan Ron Thi NongHan Viewpoint at Ban Tha Rae and Ban Tha WatViewpoint in Tambon Lao Po Daeng.Ban Tha Rae Community (ชุมชนบ้านท่าแร่)Established in 1884 and located in TambonTha Rae, this is an old community with thelargest number of Roman Catholic Christiansin Thailand. Formerly, the Christians of Tha Raeimmigrated from Sakon Nakhon on the otherside of Nong Han Lake, which included boththe Vietnamese and Thai Yo (native people whowere immigrants from Hongsa District inSainyabuli, Lao P.D.R.) due to their being deprivedof believing in Christianity by the rulers of SakonNakhon in the reign of King Rama V the Great.So, they built a large bamboo raft with blanketsas the sails that could carry all the people andnecessary items, and prayed to Saint Michael tolead them to a land where they could spreadout Christianity. The wind took them acrossto the other side of the Nong Han Lake wherethe ground was covered with laterite called“Hin Hae”. They settled there and called theircommunity “Tha Hae”, which later became“Tha Rae” until now.The plan of the Ban Tha Rae community is likea checkerboard, similar to that in Westerncountries, with beautiful buildings in theFrench-style architecture along both sidesof its main road. The community is also thelocation of the St. Michael’s Cathedral, whichfeatures a large boat-shaped church built inmemory to how the villagers emigrated fromSakon Nakhon provincial town to settle atBan Tha Rae. During 23-25 December of everyyear, the Christian community of Ban Tha Raewill hold the Christmas Star Parade based on abelief that the star symbolises the birth of Jesuson Earth. There are a lot of activities to enjoythroughout the event. For enquiries, pleasecontact the Archdiocese of Tharae-Nongsaeng,Tel. 0 4271 1272.To get there: From Amphoe Mueang SakonNakhon, take Highway NO. 22 (Sakon NakhonNakhon Phanom) for approximately 21 kilometresto Ban Tha Rae Community.Phra That Narai Cheng Weng Stupa(ปราสาทพระธาตุนารายณ์เจงเวง)Located in Wat Phra That Narai Cheng Weng,Ban That, the lone stupa is built from sandstoneon laterite base and carved beautifully. Its lintelfeature Lord Krisna killing Lion in Bapuan Khmerart. The Art appears on this stupa is quite similarto many Khmer ruins found in Isan. StoneCarving on door arch and window remainvery clear. Legend says this stupa was built bywomen, who competed with the men groupthat built Phra That Phu Phek. According to itsdesign and art, it is assumed to be from 11-12thcentury. Annual celebration of Phra That NaraiCheng Weng is held from 11th-15th date ofwaxing moon in March.To get there: From Amphoe Mueang SakonNakhon, take Highway NO. 22 (Sakon NakhonUdon Thani). Turn left at the intersection andtake Hihgway NO. 241 towards Kalasin provincefor approximately 500 metres. Turn left to alocal road and continue on to reach Wat PhraThat Narai Cheng Weng. A total distance of 6kilometres from downtown Sakon Nakhon.Phrathat Dum (พระธาตุดุม)Located at Wat Phrathat Dum, Ban That Dum,Tambon Ngio Don. There were originally threebrick-built prang towers standing on the samelaterite base facing to the East. There is a traceof an encircling moat in the North and theSouth. Nowadays, only one stand-alone pranghas remained. Presumably, it was built in thesame period as Phrathat Narai Cheng Weng,but smaller. There are lintels found on the fourdirections of the sanctuary. The one in thenorth is the only lintel left at the sanctuary andfeatures a deity riding his mount above the Kala(a monster head) decorated with other animalslike elephant, lion, and a scrolling foliagedesign. It is the Khmer art in a Baphuon styledating back to the 11-12th century.To get there: From Amphoe Mueang SakonNakhon, take Sukkasem Road and Ku MueangRoad until reaching the Government HousingBank intersection. Turn right and continue onto another intersection. Turn left go to Ban Dumand go straight on to the end of the road to WatPhrathat Dum. A total distance of 5 kilometresfrom downtown Sakon Nakhon.Phu Phan Royal Development StudyCentre (ศูนย์ศึกษาการพัฒนาภูพาน อันเนื่องมาจากพระราชดำริ)Located at Ban Na Nok Khao, Tambon HuaiYang, was established to be the northeasterncentre for study, research, and developmenton every aspect of agriculture. The Centre islike a live natural museum where people cancome to study and take knowledge to applyfor their occupations. It features an exhibitionof the royally-initiated projects, and a livestockfarm of the “Three Black Wonders of Phu Phan”:Tajima cattle, Phu Phan pig, and Phu Phan blackchicken. In addition, there is a mushroom farm,sericulture farm, turkey farm, dairy cattle, JavanRusa, fish farm in floating baskets, a demonstrativerice plantation, mini zoo for children, and decorativeflower garden. Herbal products and agriculturalprocessed products are available for sale.The Centre is open daily during 08.30 a.m.-04.30p.m. Admission is free. For a group visit with aguide, a letter must be sent in advance. There is atram service to tour around the Centre availableat 300 Baht for a 15-20 seater tram. For moreinformation, Tel. 0 4274 7458-9 or visit www.royal.rid.go.th/phuphan.To get there: From Amphoe Mueang SakonNakhon, take Highway No. 213 (Sakon Nakhon- Kalasin). Turn left to Rural Highway NO. 3035and go straight ahead for 2 kilometres to PhuPhan Royal Development Study Centre. A totaldistance of 16 kilometres from downtownSakon Nakhon.Phu Phan Ratchaniwet Palace (พระตำหนักภูพานราชนิเวศน์)Located on the mid of Phu Phan MountainRange, the palace is the royal residence of HisMajesty the King Bhumibol Adulyadej (RamaIX), Her Majesty the Queen and royal familyduring the mission in Northeast Thailand. Themansion is located amidst shady forest andbeautiful garden.The Palace is open to the general public (welldressed and composed) daily during 08.00a.m.-04.00 p.m. Admission is free. For moreinformation, Tel. 0 4271 1550.To get there: From Amphoe Mueang SakonNakhon, take Highway No. 213 towards Kalasinprovince for approximately 13 kilometres. Theentrance of Phu Phan Ratchaniwet Palace willbe on the right.Phu Phan National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติภูพาน)The park acquires total area of 664.70 squarekilometres. in Amphoe Mueang, PhannaNikhom, Kut Bak and Phu Phan of SakhonNakhon as well as Amphoe Somdet and HuaiPhueng of Kalasin. The park’s official is locatedon Phu Phan Range. Established on October 29,1982, the park features limestone mountainand different forest such as deciduousdipterocarp forest, jungle rain forest, or mixeddeciduous forest. Wildlife found in the parkinclude langur, civet, and slow loris.
Si Sa Ket in lower Northeast region locatednext to Cambodia With long history Si Sa Ketonce had prosperous culture since Khmer eraover thousands years ago Moreover there aremany ethnic tribes such as Suai Lao Khmer ,and Yoe settled down here Old town Si SaKet formerly known as Mueang Khukhan waslocated at Ban Prasat Si Liam Dong Lamduan ,in present Tambon Duan Yai Amphoe WangHin It become town in 1759 during Ayutthayaperiod In the reign of King Rama or rounda century ago the town has been moved to thepresent location .It is also gateway to visit Cambodia Theprovince has plenty of fruit such as rambutanand durian which are available at the beginningof rainy season Sakon NakhonThai Term GlossaryAmphoe DistrictBan VillageKhuean DamMaenam RiverMueang Town or CityPrang Corn-shaped tower orsanctuarySAO Subdistrict AdministrativeOrganizationSoi AlleySong Thaeo Pick-up trucks but with roofover the backTalat MarketTambon SubdistrictTham CaveTuk-Tuks Three-wheeled motorizedtaxisUbosot or Bot Ordination hall in templeWihan Image hall in templeWat TempleNote English spelling here given tries toapproximate Thai Pronunciation Posted signsmay be spelled differently When seeking helpfor direction point to the Thai spelling givenafter each place name .Sakon Nakhon is Buddhist town with fiveBuddhist stupas Its history can be dated backfor three thousand years Legend says thatNong Han town or presently Sakon Nakhon ,was built in 11 th century when Khmer ruledthis region When the Khmer lost its power thetown was under the rules of Lanxang or LaotianKingdom It was renamed into “Mueang ChiangMai Nongharn ”. When the town was underSiamese Kingdom it was renamed again into “Sakon Thawapi ”. In 1830 during the reign ofKing Rama III it was named “Sakon Nakhon ”.Sakon Nakhon Province is 647 kilometres fromBangkok It acquires total area of 9,605 sq .kilometres. and has 18 Amphoes includingAmphoe Mueang Sakon Nakhon AmphoePhanna Nikhom Amphoe Phang Khon AmphoeSawang Daen Din Amphoe Charoen Sin ,Amphoe Ban Muang Amphoe Kham Ta Kla ,Amphoe Wanon Niwat Amphoe Akat Amnuai ,Amphoe Kusuman Amphoe Phon Na Kaeo ,Amphoe Khok Si Suphan Amphoe Tao Ngoi ,Amphoe Phu Phan Amphoe Kut Bak AmphoeNikhom Nam Un Amphoe Waritchaphum andAmphoe Song Dao .Distances from Sakon Nakhon to nearbyprovincesNakhon Phanom 93 kilometresMukdahan 119 kilometresKalasin 128 kilometresUdon Thani 159 kilometresDistances from Amphoe Mueang SakonNakhon to other districtsAmphoe Phanna Nikhom 39 kilometresAmphoe Phang Khon 54 kilometresAmphoe Sawang Daen Din 84 kilometresAmphoe Charoen Sin 90 kilometresAmphoe Ban Muang 120 kilometresAmphoe Kham Ta Kla 109 kilometresAmphoe Wanon Niwat 85 kilometresAmphoe Akat Amnuai 57 kilometresAmphoe Kusuman 40 kilometresAmphoe Phon Na Kaeo 35 kilometresAmphoe Khok Si Suphan 22 kilometresAmphoe Tao Ngoi 28 kilometresAmphoe Phu Phan 33 kilometresAmphoe Kut Bak 56 kilometresAmphoe Nikhom Nam Un 99 kilometresAmphoe Waritchaphum 69 kilometresAmphoe Song Dao 109 kilometresHOW TO GET THEREBy Car From Bangkok takes Highway No .1(Pahonyothin Road to Saraburi and turnright into Highway No .2 (Mittraphap Road atSaraburi drive through Nakhon Ratchasima ,Amphoe Ban Phai of Khon Kaen Then turnright to Highway No .23 via Maha Sarakham andKalasin then use Highway No .213 to SakonNakhon The total distance is around 647 kilometres .By Bus From the Northern Bus TerminalChatuchak (Kamphaeng Phet II Road inBangkok There are many bus to Sakon Nakhoneveryday For more information contact :- The Transport Co ., Ltd Tel 1490 29362852 66 Sakon Nakhon Branch Tel 4271 2860,09 3315 4483 website www .transport.co.th- Nakhon Chai Air Co ., Ltd Tel 1624 website www .nca.co.thFor more information contact Sakon NakhonBus Station Tel 4271 4945 By Train State Railway of Thailand operatesdaily train service from Bangkok to Udon Thani ,where tourist can catch routine bus to SakonNakhon 159 kilometres away For moreinformation Tel 1690 2220 4334 22204261 Udon Thani Station Tel 4222 2061 ,website www .railway.co.thBy Air There are two airlines operating flightsfrom Donmueang International Airport inBangkok to Sakon Nakhon Airport as follows :- Nok Air Tel 1318 2900 9955 website www .nokair.com- Thai Air Asia Tel 2515 9999 website :www.airasia.comTransportation in Sakon NakhonThere are Song Thaeos motor tricycle andpedal tricycle plying the provincial town ofSakon Nakhon They are available at manyplaces such as the Sakon Nakhon MunicipalMarket Sakon Nakhon Hospital and the SakonNakhon Bus Terminal .To travel from Amphoe Mueang Sakon Nakhonto other districts there are Song Thaeos ,6-wheelers, and buses available from the SakonNakhon Municipal Market and Sakon NakhonBus Terminal .Transportation from Sakon Nakhon tonearby provincesFrom the Sakon Nakhon Bus Terminal thereare air-conditioned and non-air-conditionedbus services to nearby provinces includingUdon Thani Nakhon Phanom Khon Kaen ,Kalasin, Bueng Kan etc For more information ,Tel. 4271 4945 .ATTRACTIONSAmphoe Mueang Sakon NakhonPhra That Choeng Chum พระธาตุ เชิง ชุม )Situated in Wat Phra That Choeng ChumWorawihan rectangular stupa is 24 metreshigh and decorated with 3.75 kilograms goldenumbrella The stupa or Phra That has fourdoors put inside is fill with stone It isbuilt to cover footprints of four Buddhasnamely Phra Kakusantha Phra Konakhom ,Phra Katsapa and Phra Khodom or Phra SiAriyametrai (The present Lord Buddha Itshistory is unclear however Phra That is consideredsacred icon for Sakon Nakhon Next to the PhraThat is the chapel that houses Luang Po OngSaen sacred Buddha statue of the province .On Wan Phra or Buddhist Day lots of Buddhistalways pay homage to the Buddha image atnight The temple holds annual celebrationbetween the th and 15 th date of waxing moonof January .Nong Han อง หาร )The huge and famous lake of Thailand acquirestotal area of 123 sq kilometres It is fed bymany streams before supplying to Kam Stream ,tributary of Mekong that runs into the big riverat Amphoe That Phanom Nakhon PhanomProvince At the depth between metres ,the lake facilitates agriculture livestock farmingand fishery of the people around it There aremore than 20 islets in the lake such as Ko DonSawan the biggest islet where deserted templeand ancient Buddha images are located Lushforest on the islet makes it habitat for manybirds There are pavilions of Ko Kaeo and Ko DonSakham where tourist can take break Ko DonSathung is surrounded with golden freshwaterweed which glows under sunshine .Somdet Phra Srinagarindra Park สว สมเด็จพระ ศรีนครินทร์ )Located next to Nong Han in Tambon ThatChoeng Chum other Princess PhraSrinagarindra has presided over the openingceremony on November 1987 The park ’scompound include an ancient pond calledSa Phang Thong which was built in the sameperiod as Phra That Choeng Chum The parkcomprises beautiful flower and tree junglearea water park rock garden excercising areaand 69 metres high fountain The park is openfor public use in botanical study It is openbetween 04.00 .m. – 09.00 .m.Later, the Park was expanded to cover more areaof approximately 20 rai which was also turnedinto public park to serve the same purpose asthe main Park and sponsored by the people ofSakon Nakhon The extended park was namedSomdet Chaofa Galyani Vadhana Park (known incommon as Suan Mae –Suan Luk to celebratethe occasion of the 84 th birthday anniversary ofthe Princess of Naradhiwas on May 2007 ThePark is open daily from 04.00 .m. – 09.00 .m.Phu Phan Museum พิพิธภัณฑ์ ภูพาน )Located behind the Sakon Nakhon Kindergarten ,on Udon Thani Sakon Nakhon Road TambonThat Choeng Chum displays the historicalbackground way of life and local culture ofSakon Nakhon Inside the building are dividedinto different rooms which are the overtureroom the exhibition of “Amazing Phu Phan ”,Isan seasonal flooded forest and swamp forest ,Nong Han and the settlement of Sakon Nakhontown room of Sakon Nakhon people praising the King and the Queen room exhibitionroom honouring Their Majesties the King andQueen Land of Dhamma room and outdoorsculpture The Museum opens from Tuesday- Sunday between 09.00 .m. – 05.00 .m. Formore information please call Tel 4271 4853 .Freshwater Aquarium สถาน พันธุ์ ปลาน้ำจืด )Located on Sai Sawang Road Tambon ThatChoeng Chum inside the Inland FisheriesResearch and Development Centre establishedwith the purposes of the fish breeds productionand conservation in the Nong Han area andpromotion of aquatic animals breeding inthe provinces of the Northeast region TheAquarium displays and gives knowledge aboutvarious breeds of fish that were discovered ;such as Albino Mekong giant catfish tilapia ,Siamese tiger fish Clown knife fish Greatsnakehead and Mrigal etc Interested personscan visit from Monday Friday between 08.30 .m. 04.30 .m. For more information pleasecall Tel 4271 1447 .Sakon Nakhon Museum พิพิธภัณฑ์ เมืองสกลนคร )Situated at Building in the Sakon NakhonRajabhat University Nittayo Road TambonThat Choeng Chum features belongings andutensils of several ethnic groups includinghistorical photographs and art and culturalbackground documents Open between 08.30 .m. 04.30 .m. For group visit please writein advance to the Director of the Arts Cultureand Languages Centre Sakon Nakhon RajabhatUniversity For more information please callTel 4274 4009 .The museum of Achan Man PurithatthaThera พิพิธภัณฑ์ บริขาร อาจารย์ มั่น ภูริทัต เถระ )Located in Wat Pa Suthawat opposite to CityHall The museum house bronze statue of AchanMan Purithatto in meditation posture and theglass box that houses his ash that turns intocrystal The display including his tools is placedin marble altar and his history is shown nearby .Achan Man Purithatto is famous Buddhistmonk Born in Kaenkaeo family in AmphoeKhong Chiam Ubon Ratchathani he wasa novice when he was 15 and entered monkhoodat 22 at Wat Leap Ubon Ratchathani AchanMan always practice meditation on the trip toremote area and he had many followers such asLuang Pu Fan Acharo Luang Pu Khao Alanayo ,Luang Pu Waen Suchino Achan Man moved tostay at Wat Pa Suthawat and passed away onNovember 11 1949 .Furthermore, the Museum of Luang Pu Lui islocated also in the temple ’s compound Themuseum is built to house ashes of Luang Pu Lui (1901-1989). This famous monk in Wipatsanais follower of Achan Man He loved to travelaround until his last day in his life His Majestythe King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX )presided over his funeral and mentioned “a pagoda to house his ashes should be built inWat Pa Suthawat where the pagoda housingashes of Achan Man is located For they can stayclose together .” His Majesty the King BhumibolAdulyadej (Rama IX has designed the pagoda .Lotus Memorial Park อุ ทยา บัว เฉลิมพระเกียรติ )Located inside Kasetsart University Chalermphrakiat Sakon Nakhon Province Campus Inaddition to serving as source of knowledgeand recreational place for university studentsand the general public the Lotus MemorialPark features large lotus swamp located rightat the entrance with network of red woodenboardwalks to allow visitors to walk aroundthe swamp and has pavilion in the middlefor relaxation .There are zones inside the Park namely ,1. Collection Zone featuring collectionof lotus varieties in the form of 10 -rai lotuspond with 34 native as well as foreign varietiesof water lilies such as the Royal water lily orBua Kradong Bua Sai Bua Phan-Bua Phuean ,and Bua Farang with connected boardwalksfor visitors to closely admire their flowers .2. Specimen Zone displaying 74 varietiesof water lilies in pots for closer study .3. Exhibition Zone at the ground floorof the Research and Development Buildingexhibiting the knowledge and background ofwater lilies including the classification of waterlily varieties water lilies in Thailand how to growand take care of water lilies diseases and pests ,breeding, farming and uses .The Lotus Memorial Park is open during 08.30 .m.-04.30 .m. on weekdays and 08.30 .m.-06.00 .m. on weekends Admission is free Forfurther information Tel 4272 5000 .To get there By car From Amphoe MueangSakon Nakhon follow Highway No 22 boundfor Nakhon Phanom for approximately 19 kilometres The entrance to the Park will be onthe left some kilometres beyond the entranceto Kasetsart University By bus Take the SongThaeo routing Sakon Nakhon-Tha Rae and getoff at the Park ’s entrance .Nong Han Viewpoint จุ ดชม วิว หนอง หาร )Located at Km 168 on Highway No 22 theNakhon Phanom-Sakon Nakhon route theViewpoint is approximately kilometres fromthe Lotus Memorial Park Tambon Tha Rae Thereare number of pavilions for relaxation by thelake Another kilometre further along the roadis concrete bridge spanning from the shore toan island in the middle of the lake which is idealfor strolling and taking photos especially in themorning and at twilight It is open daily during 06.00 .m.-07.00 .m., free of charge .There are also many other viewpoints of NongHan Lake that are frequented by visitors andphotographers such as the Tawan Ron Thi NongHan Viewpoint at Ban Tha Rae and Ban Tha WatViewpoint in Tambon Lao Po Daeng .Ban Tha Rae Community ชุมชน บ้าน ท่า แร่ )Established in 1884 and located in TambonTha Rae this is an old community with thelargest number of Roman Catholic Christiansin Thailand Formerly the Christians of Tha Raeimmigrated from Sakon Nakhon on the otherside of Nong Han Lake which included boththe Vietnamese and Thai Yo (native people whowere immigrants from Hongsa District inSainyabuli Lao .D.R.) due to their being deprivedof believing in Christianity by the rulers of SakonNakhon in the reign of King Rama the Great .So, they built large bamboo raft with blanketsas the sails that could carry all the people andnecessary items and prayed to Saint Michael tolead them to land where they could spreadout Christianity The wind took them acrossto the other side of the Nong Han Lake wherethe ground was covered with laterite called “Hin Hae ”. They settled there and called theircommunity “Tha Hae ”, which later became “Tha Rae ” until now .The plan of the Ban Tha Rae community is likea checkerboard similar to that in Westerncountries with beautiful buildings in theFrench-style architecture along both sidesof its main road The community is also thelocation of the St Michael ’s Cathedral whichfeatures large boat-shaped church built inmemory to how the villagers emigrated fromSakon Nakhon provincial town to settle atBan Tha Rae During 23 25 December of everyyear the Christian community of Ban Tha Raewill hold the Christmas Star Parade based on abelief that the star symbolises the birth of Jesuson Earth There are lot of activities to enjoythroughout the event For enquiries pleasecontact the Archdiocese of Tharae-Nongsaeng ,Tel. 4271 1272 .To get there From Amphoe Mueang SakonNakhon take Highway NO 22 (Sakon NakhonNakhon Phanom ) for approximately 21 kilometresto Ban Tha Rae Community .Phra That Narai Cheng Weng Stupa ปราสาท พระธาตุ นารายณ์ เจ งเวง )Located in Wat Phra That Narai Cheng Weng ,Ban That the lone stupa is built from sandstoneon laterite base and carved beautifully Its lintelfeature Lord Krisna killing Lion in Bapuan Khmerart The Art appears on this stupa is quite similarto many Khmer ruins found in Isan StoneCarving on door arch and window remainvery clear Legend says this stupa was built bywomen who competed with the men groupthat built Phra That Phu Phek According to itsdesign and art it is assumed to be from 11 12 thcentury Annual celebration of Phra That NaraiCheng Weng is held from 11 th- 15 th date ofwaxing moon in March .To get there From Amphoe Mueang SakonNakhon take Highway NO 22 (Sakon NakhonUdon Thani ). Turn left at the intersection andtake Hihgway NO 241 towards Kalasin provincefor approximately 500 metres Turn left to alocal road and continue on to reach Wat PhraThat Narai Cheng Weng total distance of kilometres from downtown Sakon Nakhon .Phrathat Dum พระธาตุ ดุม )Located at Wat Phrathat Dum Ban That Dum ,Tambon Ngio Don There were originally threebrick-built prang towers standing on the samelaterite base facing to the East There is traceof an encircling moat in the North and theSouth Nowadays only one stand-alone pranghas remained Presumably it was built in thesame period as Phrathat Narai Cheng Weng ,but smaller There are lintels found on the fourdirections of the sanctuary The one in thenorth is the only lintel left at the sanctuary andfeatures deity riding his mount above the Kala (a monster head decorated with other animalslike elephant lion and scrolling foliagedesign It is the Khmer art in Baphuon styledating back to the 11 12 th century .To get there From Amphoe Mueang SakonNakhon take Sukkasem Road and Ku MueangRoad until reaching the Government HousingBank intersection Turn right and continue onto another intersection Turn left go to Ban Dumand go straight on to the end of the road to WatPhrathat Dum total distance of kilometresfrom downtown Sakon Nakhon .Phu Phan Royal Development StudyCentre ศูนย์ศึกษา การพัฒนา ภูพาน พระราชดำริ )Located at Ban Na Nok Khao Tambon HuaiYang was established to be the northeasterncentre for study research and developmenton every aspect of agriculture The Centre islike live natural museum where people cancome to study and take knowledge to applyfor their occupations It features an exhibitionof the royally-initiated projects and livestockfarm of the “Three Black Wonders of Phu Phan ”:Tajima cattle Phu Phan pig and Phu Phan blackchicken In addition there is mushroom farm ,sericulture farm turkey farm dairy cattle JavanRusa fish farm in floating baskets demonstrativerice plantation mini zoo for children and decorativeflower garden Herbal products and agriculturalprocessed products are available for sale .The Centre is open daily during 08.30 .m.-04.30p.m. Admission is free For group visit with aguide letter must be sent in advance There is atram service to tour around the Centre availableat 300 Baht for 15 20 seater tram For moreinformation Tel 4274 7458 or visit www .royal.rid.go.th/phuphan.To get there From Amphoe Mueang SakonNakhon take Highway No 213 (Sakon Nakhon- Kalasin ). Turn left to Rural Highway NO 3035 and go straight ahead for kilometres to PhuPhan Royal Development Study Centre totaldistance of 16 kilometres from downtownSakon Nakhon .Phu Phan Ratchaniwet Palace พระตำหนัก ภูพาน ราชนิเวศน์ )Located on the mid of Phu Phan MountainRange the palace is the royal residence of HisMajesty the King Bhumibol Adulyadej (RamaIX), Her Majesty the Queen and royal familyduring the mission in Northeast Thailand Themansion is located amidst shady forest andbeautiful garden .The Palace is open to the general public (welldressed and composed daily during 08.00 .m.-04.00 .m. Admission is free For moreinformation Tel 4271 1550 .To get there From Amphoe Mueang SakonNakhon take Highway No 213 towards Kalasinprovince for approximately 13 kilometres Theentrance of Phu Phan Ratchaniwet Palace willbe on the right .Phu Phan National Park อุ ทยา แห่งชาติ ภูพาน )The park acquires total area of 664.70 squarekilometres in Amphoe Mueang PhannaNikhom Kut Bak and Phu Phan of SakhonNakhon as well as Amphoe Somdet and HuaiPhueng of Kalasin The park ’s official is locatedon Phu Phan Range Established on October 29,1982 the park features limestone mountainand different forest such as deciduousdipterocarp forest jungle rain forest or mixeddeciduous forest Wildlife found in the parkinclude langur civet and slow loris .