Explore Pha Nam Yoi, also known as Isan Buddhist Park, located in Ban Khok Klang, Thailand. This tranquil sanctuary features stunning landscapes, intricate temples, and vibrant cultural experiences that celebrate the essence of Buddhism. Discover a peaceful retreat where nature and spirituality intertwine.
Pha Nam Yoi, widely recognized as Isan Buddhist Park, is an enchanting destination nestled in the heart of Ban Khok Klang within the stunning landscapes of northeastern Thailand. This remarkable park serves as a spiritual haven for both locals and travelers seeking a deeper connection to Buddhist culture and an opportunity to immerse themselves in tranquil natural beauty.
The park is renowned for its sprawling gardens, intricately designed temples, and serene walking paths that invite visitors to meditate and reflect. Each temple showcases exquisite architectural details and captivating murals that depict stories from Buddhist traditions, offering a unique glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. As you stroll through the serene surroundings, you’ll encounter statues and sculptures that embody the teachings of Buddhism, encouraging contemplation and peace.
Visitors to Pha Nam Yoi will not only experience breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys, but they will also engage in communal activities such as meditation sessions and cultural festivals. These events often highlight local traditions, culinary delights, and artistic expressions that bring the community together and enhance the cultural fabric of Isan.
In addition to its spiritual significance, Pha Nam Yoi serves as an educational platform for those looking to learn more about Buddhist philosophy and practices. Workshops and guided tours provide invaluable insights into the principles of Buddhism, helping to foster a greater understanding and appreciation of this ancient way of life.
Pha Nam Yoi is more than just a park; it’s an experience that rejuvenates the mind and soul. Whether you’re here to find peace, explore cultural heritage, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, this sacred space is sure to leave a lasting impression. Come and explore the harmony of spirituality and nature at this hidden gem in Thailand’s Isan region, and let the serene ambiance of Pha Nam Yoi elevate your journey.
ผาน้ำย้อย (หนองพอก, ไทย) - รีวิว - ThailandAgoda.com
Attractions
6 miles
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1.02 miles
3.53 miles
4.46 miles
5.30 miles
Pha Nam Yoi or Isan Buddhist Park is perched on a picturesque hilltop overlooking Ban Khok Klang Pha Nam Yoi subdistrict, 45210, Thailand
Very beautiful temple standing on the hillside overlooking Roi Et province. The site is very impressive with beautiful gardens and 6 floors leading to the pinnacle attraction at the very top of many stairs. The temple is yet to be finished but the building is so big it could take years. The site has free transport to the car park where you can buy souvenirs and taste the local food in the selection of restaurants. If you would like a more physical challenge, the outer wall provides a healthy climb to the temple. I have visited many temples and I would rate this one as a must see 🙂
If there is one Buddhist Temple you do not want to miss it is Isan Buddhist Park.The grounds are immaculate and the temple is splendidly ornate with detail that I have never seen before. When we went there was some construction works being undertaken, however this had little to no impact on our visit. As you come in at the bottom of the hill there is a small market place with many stalls selling all sorts of goods and food.
We went by car and you have to park outside the grounds. Opposite are gift shops and food outlets where, if there is space, you can park.You can catch a small bus for free from there to take you to the temple.This is a popular place for Thai’s so the bus fills up quickly.It does not take long to get to the temple where at the bus stop are toilets.The temple is a large building and still being built.But still very attractive.Inside is a lift which goes up to the fifth floor.There is a winding stair there going up at least another three floors in height but beware it gets quite steep the last floor height and there are people going down.Up there you can walk around and look down onto the fifth floor.Going down there are stairs to the other floors. These are marked up and down stairways.On ever floor there are statues for praying.The architecture is beautiful and intricate inside and outside.There is a two storey walkway from the entrance to almost the temple if you wish to walk. This gives you a view of the countryside.
Some sources (including this listing on TA) call the complex “Thai Buddhist Park”. No Thai person seems to know that name nor have they ever heard it. I was unable to find out where this title (or nickname) came from. So don’t bother asking Thai people for “Thai Buddhist Park”, just say “Phra Maha Chedi Chai Mongkol” or simply “Chedi Mongkol” – and everybody knows what you mean.Please don’t ask me for instructions on how to get there. A local friend from Roi-et drove me all the way. The location is approximately 90 kilometres North of Roi-et town. There is no village nearby. The chedi is in the middle of nowhere, so to say. I don’t think you can go there by public transport. You have to go by group tour or hire someone to drive you there. If you decide to drive by yourself, get directions from google maps first.Surprisingly enough, there was a large Tesco Lotus in one of the villages on the way, just in case.Shortly before arrival you pass many restaurants. They all sell the same: Grilled chicken and grilled fish, the one with the thick crust of salt – very delicious!Upon arrival you can see that the chedi is in the hills of a jungle area. From the parking lot you can either walk five minutes or take the small tractor-train to reach the entrance. The train is free of charge and so was the entrance to the chedi. Avoid Buddhist holidays if you can. There were not many people during my visit, but I’ve been told that it can get very crowded on certain days. The structure is big, I mean really huge. On one sign it is said that the foundation of the building is 101 metres in diameter and the total height is 101 metres as well, referring to the name of the province you are in (Roi-et means “one hundred-one”). The garden surrounding the chedi is well maintained and the photo opportunities are seemingly endless.When you enter the chedi, you’ll find yourself in a gigantic hall that is nearly empty. In the middle of the room are the Buddha images. This area is relatively small in comparison to the rest of the hall. The next two floors look basically the same: Huge empty space with a Buddha worship corner.I am still puzzled over the fact that there is such a huge, well maintained place in Thailand, rivalling Bangkok’s Grand Palace in size and I never heard of it before.A visit can be easily combined with visiting Nam Tok Soda, a waterfall not too far away. From there you can actually see Phra Maha Chedi Chai Mongkol protruding out of the dense jungle.Another place to add to your trip is the nearby “Tham Pha Nam Thip Non-hunting Area”, which does not have the status of a national park, but is treated like one and it is under the authority of the Thai National Park administration. It is just 10 kilometres away.
I’ve visited this place many times over the years and the sheer beauty of the place is always overwhelming. Saying it is vast is an understatement. There is gold colour everywhere and the inside of the temple is amazing to see. When we first visited in 2005 there was scaffolding everywhere as it was being renovated, but in 2023 most of this has been completed and it’s beautiful is on full display. It is well worth a look if you are in the area – you won’t be disappointed.