Bueng Kan: Rock Formations, Mekong and Temples

Bueng Kan combines waterfall and mountain attractions, borders the Mekong and Bolikhamsai Province in Laos, and includes natural, historical, artistic and cultural destinations. Choosing where to go therefore offers a mix of landscapes, religious sites and regional cuisine. If you are looking for a hotel, you can first consider whether rock formations, temples, hikes or a view of the Mekong should shape your stay.

Rock Formations and the Mekong

Hin Sam Wan consists of three rocks and is located in Mueang Bueng Kan District, within the Kala Tropical Rain Forest, Phu Sing Forest and Dong Si Chomphu Forest National Forest Reserves. Visitors can walk up onto the back of the “father whale.” From there, you can watch the sunrise and see the Mekong and Laos across the river in the distance. The walk up and the sunrise view together define this experience.

Phu Sing offers a different kind of scenery: the sandstone mountain features rock formations, cliffs, caves and rock terraces. At Namtok Chet Si, spray creates rainbow colors in the sunlight. Distinctive rock formations thus contrast with a natural spectacle whose effect depends on the sunlight.

The Mekong in front of Wat Ahong Silawat is considered the deepest point of the Mekong and is known as the “Navel of the Mekong”; its depth is given as approximately 196 meters. The approximate depth and local name make this stretch of river a distinctive landmark in the landscape.

Temples and Buddha Images

Phu Thok is the mountain where Wat Chetiya Khiri Wihan, also called Wat Phu Thok, is located. The staircase to the summit of Phu Thok is divided into seven levels; the highest point is on the fifth level of Phu Thok Noi. Those interested in the mountain and the temple will find both the connection between the two places and a description of the ascent.

Luangpho Phra Yai is located at Wat Pho Tharam. The Buddha image is 1.62 meters wide across the lap. Wat Ahong Silawat houses the bronze Buddha image Phra Phuttha Khuwanan Satsada. The two images differ in the details highlighted here: for Luangpho Phra Yai, it is the measurement; for Phra Phuttha Khuwanan Satsada, the material.

Hiking and Trip Planning

The hike to Naka Cave is said to take approximately four to five hours for the round trip, with an ascent of around 1.4 kilometers. Check trail conditions and access rules before your trip. The experiences differ considerably when planning your day: Hin Sam Wan is associated with watching the sunrise, while the hike to Naka Cave can be assessed using an approximate time and distance.

Regional Cuisine

Recommended dishes in Bueng Kan include Mekong fish, prepared fried, steamed, stir-fried or in spicy soups. If you also consider regional cuisine when choosing a destination, the selection described ranges from pan-fried fish to spicy soups and steamed dishes.

Discover more destinations: Bueng Khong Long District, Bueng Kan, Phon Charoen, Roi Et, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Ayutthaya, Prachinburi, Phatthalung

Return to the main travel overview: Thailand.