Nakhon phanom: Phra That Phanom, the largest chedi in the northeastern region, has been revered by Buddhists since ancient times. It is said that paying homage to the chedi seven times will bring great blessings to your life.

According to Thai News Agency, Phra That Phanom is a sacred relic that symbolizes the prosperity of Buddhism in Nakhon Phanom since ancient times. Historically, it was built around the beginning of the Buddhist era, approximately 8 B.E., during the heyday of the Sri Khotburana Kingdom. It is located on Phu Kham Pra on the banks of the Mekong River, marking the site where the Buddha once visited. Legend has it that Phra Maha Kassapa and 500 Arahants brought the Buddha’s Urankathu (breast bone) from the Indian subcontinent, and the construction of the reliquary was overseen by the five rulers of the city.

The chedi has undergone multiple renovations, with the most significant reconstruction occurring after a collapse on August 11, 1975, due to age and continuous heavy rain and storms. Public donations and government efforts led to its rebuilding, preserving its original form, with construction completed on March 23, 1990. In addition to the relics of the Lord Buddha, there are tens of thousands of valuable items enshrined within the Phra That.

Buddhists from across both sides of the Mekong River continue to visit Phra That Phanom, upholding the ancestral belief that paying homage to the chedi seven times renders an individual a “child of the chedi,” bringing good fortune and great merit.

Phra That Phanom is unique as it serves as the chedi for each birth year on the plateau and is specifically associated with those born on Sunday. The site is historically significant as it is said to be where the Buddha declared the area as the inheritance and beginning of Buddhism. It is the largest chedi in Isan, linked to the deity of Sunday, known for strength and prestige.

Wat Phra That Phanom has earned a place among the TOP 5 best awards in the Thailand Top Vote 2025, recognized as one of the best tourist attractions of the year. Public voting for the top awards continues via the Prompt Post application, offering an opportunity to participate in deciding the 8 best awards of 2025.

Thank you for the information from: Book of Worship of the Buddha Relics of the Day of Birth, 7 Days, 8 Buddha Relics, Project to Develop and Promote Tourism of Important Buddha Relics in Nakhon Phanom Province.