Readme before you journey
Speaking of tourist attractions in the northeastern region, Loei Province is another province with a plethora of tourist destinations, offering year-round travel opportunities. It is also a special area designated by the TAT (Tourism Authority of Thailand) for sustainable tourism development. While popular tourist attractions such as Chiang Khan, Phu Kradueng, Phu Lom Lo, and Phu Ruea are often the first to come to mind, few people are familiar with "Na Haeo," a small district nestled within the embrace of the mountains along the Thai-Lao border. If you're unfamiliar with Na Haeo or eager to learn more, join me on this trip to explore its hidden gems.
Don't forget to stop by Dan Sai before heading to "Na Haeo".
Our journey begins in Lom Sak district, Phetchabun province, my hometown. We depart from Lom Sak district and follow Highway 203, Lom Sak-Loei, passing through Lom Kao district and entering Dan Sai district. We then turn left to Na Haeo district. The distance from Dan Sai to Na Haeo is approximately 25 kilometers and takes about half an hour. However, before reaching Na Haeo, it is recommended to visit Dan Sai district to pay respects and pray at Wat Neramit Vipassana and Phra That Si Song Rak. These temples are considered sacred landmarks of Dan Sai district.
Other ways to get there:
- From Bangkok to Loei Province: From Loei city, take Highway 203 for 68 kilometers. At the Ban Khok Ngam intersection, turn right onto Highway 2031 for 12 kilometers to Dan Sai district. Turn right onto Highway 2113 for another 32 kilometers to Na Haeo district.
- From Bangkok to Lom Sak district, Phetchabun Province: From Lom Sak district, take Highway 203 until you reach Ban Pong Chi. Turn left onto Highway 2014 to Dan Sai district. Turn left onto Highway 2113 for another 32 kilometers to Na Haeo district.
- From Phitsanulok Province to Chat Trakan district, Ban Bo Phak: At kilometer 50, turn right onto Highway 1268. Pass Ban Rom Klao and Tambon Lao Kao Hok. At kilometer 0, continue for approximately 3 kilometers to reach the Na Haeo National Park headquarters.
Note: For those without a personal vehicle, you can fly to Udon Thani and use the services of Thairent a car. The distance from Udon Thani Airport to Loei is approximately 144 kilometers.
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Temple of Vipassana Meditation
Nestled atop a picturesque hill, Wat Neramit Vipassana serves as a sacred sanctuary for the residents of Dan Sai, Loei Province. This magnificent temple boasts a unique distinction: its grand ubosot (ordination hall) and chedi (stupa) are entirely constructed from laterite, a reddish-brown sedimentary rock. The ubosot, adorned with intricate and breathtaking decorations, stands as a testament to the artistic prowess of the Central Region. Its sheer size surpasses all other ubosots in Thailand, making it a sight to behold. The interior walls are adorned with exquisite murals, while the presiding Buddha statue, a replica of the renowned Phra Buddha Chinnarat in Phitsanulok, exudes an aura of serenity and grandeur. Adjacent to the ubosot lies a pavilion crafted from laterite, housing a wax effigy of Luang Pho Phra Maha Phanth, the visionary behind the temple's construction. A visit to Dan Sai would be incomplete without witnessing the splendor of Wat Neramit Vipassana.
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Wat Phra That Si Song Rak
The Sacred Temple of Two Kingdoms: Wat Phra That Si Song Rak
Wat Phra That Si Song Rak stands as a testament to the enduring bond between two kingdoms, boasting a rich history dating back to the reign of King Chaiya Chettha in 1560. This sacred site, nestled at the confluence of the Nan and Mekong Rivers, served as a symbol of unity and mutual support between the Ayutthaya Kingdom (under King Maha Chakkraphat) and the Lan Xang Kingdom (present-day Vientiane, Laos).
The temple's construction marked a pivotal moment in the struggle against Burmese invaders. It served as a lasting reminder of the alliance forged between the two kingdoms, a testament to their commitment to peace and cooperation. The shared construction of Wat Phra That Si Song Rak embodied this spirit of unity, standing as a beacon of hope amidst the turmoil of war.
Today, Wat Phra That Si Song Rak remains a revered pilgrimage site, drawing devotees from both sides of the border. Its sacred aura and historical significance continue to inspire awe and reverence, solidifying its position as a symbol of enduring friendship and shared heritage.
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Heading towards Na Haeo District
Na Haeo is located approximately 25 kilometers from Dan Sai, with a travel time of around 30 minutes. However, the route can be somewhat challenging, as it is a two-lane road with steep curves and inclines. The journey alternates between uphill and downhill sections, with infrequent traffic. The surrounding area is forested, offering stunning views. Despite the challenging road conditions, the scenic drive makes the journey to Na Haeo enjoyable.
Recommended Tourist Attractions in Na Haeo
• Thai-Lao border checkpoint at Ban Mueang Phrae
• Wat Pho Chai Na Phueng
• Wat Si Pho Chai Saeng Pha
• Phu Suan Sai National Park
• Tad Hueng Waterfall
• Phu Hua Hom
• Nam Tok Tham Sawan
Thai-Lao Border Checkpoint at Ban Mueang Phrae, Na Haeo District
Crossing the Border to Laos: A Bamboo Bridge Adventure
Nestled on the border of Laos, Na Haeo district is separated from its neighboring country by the Hueng River. While locals typically use bamboo rafts to navigate the waterway, during my visit, a temporary bamboo bridge had been constructed due to the low water levels. Eager to explore the other side, I approached the border officials to inquire about crossing into Laos.
The officials were incredibly helpful, informing me that I could cross by exchanging my ID card for a temporary border pass, specifying my purpose as visiting a temple for religious purposes. However, they cautioned that I wouldn't be able to venture far and would need to pay a 20 baht crossing fee on the Laotian side. Upon arrival, Laotian officials questioned my intentions and destination before I embarked on a short walk to a nearby temple.
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Image of a man lifting weights
The temple design here is quite different from Thailand and has a very prominent architectural style. The murals on the walls are beautiful and seem to tell a story, but it's hard to tell what it's about. The culture and way of life here are not much different from those in Thailand, perhaps because they are so close to each other.
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This image depicts a muscular man posing in a gym setting. He is wearing athletic clothing and appears to be in good physical shape. The image is likely intended to promote fitness and bodybuilding.
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Wat Si Pho Chai Saeng Pha
The ancient Wat Si Pho Chai Saeng Pha in Na Haeo district boasts a history spanning over 400 years. Legend has it that a Laotian hunter named Siang Pha crossed the border in pursuit of game. Recognizing the auspicious location, he returned with fellow villagers to establish a settlement, initially named Ban Siang Pha, later evolving into Saeng Pha. The community then constructed Wat Si Pho Chai as a sacred place of worship and spiritual solace. The main hall, or Ubosot, houses the revered Luang Pho Phet statue. Notably, the Ubosot's architectural style bears a striking resemblance to that of Wat Chiang Khong in Luang Prabang, Laos, showcasing remarkable beauty.
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Image of a man lifting weights
Image of a man flexing his muscles
Scenic Viewpoint of Phu Huay Hom + Tad Hueng Waterfall, Phu Suan Sai National Park
The scenic viewpoint of Phu Huay Hom and Tad Hueang Waterfall are located in Phu Suan Sai National Park, approximately 25 kilometers from Na Haeo District. A short drive will take you to the park headquarters, where an entrance fee of approximately 30 baht and a vehicle fee of 10-20 baht, depending on the type of vehicle, are required. The first point of interest is the camping area and nearby bungalows, followed by the Phu Huay Hom viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the mountains on both the Thai and Lao sides. During the winter months, this location transforms into a stunning sea of mist. A short drive further will lead you to Tad Hueang Waterfall, also known as the Thai-Lao Friendship Waterfall. The left side of the waterfall belongs to Thailand, while the right side belongs to Laos, and both countries share the waterfall freely.
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A.
Memorable Impressions of "Na Haeo"
Deeply captivated by "Na Haeo," a small border district brimming with cultural treasures and captivating ways of life. Despite its modest size, Na Haeo offers a wealth of experiences waiting to be discovered. The late rainy season or winter months are ideal for witnessing the lush greenery of rice fields and forests. I consider Na Haeo a hidden gem of Loei, a must-visit destination for an unforgettable experience.
Submitted by
Name: Mr. Sanya Chanta
Page: Baag Klam Tiew - travelxmuscle.com
Article Title: Unseen in Loei One Day Trip..Loei! Dan Sai-Na Haeo
Link: http://www.travelxmuscle.com/unseen-naheaw-loei-thailand/
Phone Number: 090-0615357
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Wednesday, February 26, 2025 3:41 PM
