Phu Tok is home to Wat Chetiya Sri Wihan (Phu Tok Temple), located within the territory of Ban Kham Kan, Na Sa Baeng District, Bueng Kan Province. It was founded by Phra Ajarn Juan Kulchettho. In the Isaan language, it means "isolated mountain." Phu Tok has two peaks: Phu Tok Yai and Phu Tok Noi. The part accessible to pilgrims and tourists is Phu Tok Noi, while Phu Tok Yai is farther away and not yet open to visitors. It is the starting point for the trek to the top of Phu Tok. The highlight of Phu Tok is the wooden bridge and stairs that offer panoramic views of the surrounding area. The stairs wind around Phu Tok in a 360-degree loop, with a total of seven levels. It took five years to build the stairs from the first to the seventh level. From the first to the seventh level, there are wooden stairs that lead straight up to the summit of Phu Tok. From the third level onwards, tourists can walk around the mountain on a circular bridge. Phu Tok is closed to tourists from April 10th to 16th every year.

  • Slippery road
  • There are multiple staircases at various points.
  • Bring water and food for the journey.

- Free of charge

  • No loud noises.
  • Please dress modestly and avoid wearing shorts.
  • Long and steep walk

- Traveling to Phu Tok by private car: Start from Bueng Kan district, then turn right onto Highway 222 to Sri Wiang district. From Sri Wiang district, there is a left turn through Ban Na Sing, Ban San Sai Ngam, to Ban Na Kham Kan, reaching Phu Tok for another 20 kilometers.

Upon arrival at Wat Phu Thok, there will be signs indicating the path leading up to the mountain.

The first and second floors are connected by wooden stairs.

The third level has a fork in the path. The left path is a steep shortcut to the fifth level, passing through a narrow rock tunnel. The right path leads to the fourth level. If you don't want to climb a steep incline, take the left path. The right path offers beautiful views, but it is a longer walk.

This is the path that turned left a moment ago.

The fourth floor is a skywalk that winds around the mountain. Looking down, you can see rolling hills, known as "Dong Chompoo". To the east, it borders Phu Langka, in Seka district, which is a dense forest with abundant wildlife, especially flocks of crows. Hence, it was originally called "Phu Rangka", which later evolved into "Phu Langka".

The fifth floor is considered the most important. It houses a large pavilion, a Buddha statue, monks' quarters, and the remains of Venerable Ajahn Juan. Along the walkways, there are several caves, such as the Iron Flow Cave, the Crystal Cave, and the Hermit Cave. There are places to rest along the way. If you walk from the north, you will see a natural stone bridge leading to the Buddha Vihara, which houses the Buddha's relics. It has a strange and wonderful appearance, similar to the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda in Burma. It is a rock that has separated from a larger rock but has not fallen down because it is perfectly balanced with the ground. Today, there is a wooden bridge connecting the stone bridge to the Buddha Vihara. Looking out, you can clearly see the line of the large Phu Thok mountain. There is a spiral staircase leading to the sixth floor, which is the last floor of the spiral staircase around the mountain.

5th floor

Turn left to proceed to the Buddhist temple.

A Buddhist vihara is a place of rest for the Enlightened One, where the relics of the Buddha are kept.

This location has served as a sanctuary and final resting place for numerous revered monks. Its unique and remarkable characteristics set it apart as a truly exceptional site.

Similar to the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda in Myanmar, a wooden bridge now connects the stone bridge to the Buddhist temple.

A natural stone bridge leads to a Buddhist temple, which houses a relic of the Buddha.

The 5th floor walkway allows for a circular path, offering diverse perspectives from various vantage points.

Wooden stairs to the 6th floor

The sixth level offers the most breathtaking panoramic views. The trail winds along a series of protruding cliffs, requiring visitors to occasionally lean out slightly for safety. Each cliff has a unique name, such as Pha Thep Nimit, Pha Hua Chang, and Pha Thep Sathit. During the winter season, a sea of mist envelops the mountain peaks, creating an ethereal atmosphere reminiscent of heaven. From the sixth level, a 400-meter-long wooden bridge encircles the mountain, clinging to the edge of the steep cliffs. The bridge offers thrilling and breathtaking views. The most sacred and awe-inspiring sight on this level is the entrance to the Naga City, located behind the reclining Buddha statue.

Passage to the 7th floor

Please be careful not to slip on each floor.

The seventh floor is accessible via a wooden staircase. Upon reaching the top of the stairs, there is a fork in the path leading to the rooftop. The first path is steep and requires navigating through branches and roots, making it difficult to traverse. Additionally, a sign warns of snakes, which are prevalent on this mountain peak. It is recommended to take the alternative, albeit longer, path that circles to the right. Both paths converge on the seventh floor, or rooftop, which is an open forest area spanning approximately 5 rai. The seventh floor offers panoramic views and features three main observation points.

Phu Tok offers stunning views throughout the day, making it an ideal spot for both sunrise and sunset. The hike to the summit is relatively easy, but be cautious of slippery conditions during the rainy season.

#bueng kan#wat chetiya sri wihan#phu tok
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