Description
Praya Tao Ngoi (พญาเต่างอย) is a giant turtle statue and popular Sakon Nakhon tourist attraction. Indeed the turtle is such a popular destination that it even appeared in a song by the popular Thai singer, Jintara Poonlarp.
Praya Tao Ngoi translates in the Isaan language to The Great Floating Turtle. It's located about 30 minutes outside Sakon Nakhon city in the village of Baan Tao Ngoi, which was settled around 400 years ago by Laotians after Laos lost a war with the Kingdom of Siam. Its name was inspired by the many turtles that lived on the banks of the Phung River which runs through the village.
Praya Tao Ngoi is considered a sacred site by the faithful. Scales of the turtle's shell are decorated with the images of monks, as well as a Buddha image on a lotus flower. Praying to the turtle is thought to bring good fortune. Many people who play the Thai lottery visit it to pray for luck in the numbers draw. The turtle (which is also a symbol of fertility) is also believed to help women seeking to get pregnant, as well as grant visitors a long, healthy life.
Praya Tao Ngoi is flanked by two guardian Naga serpents, with even larger Nagas flanking the nearby bridge that crosses the river. You should definitely cross this bridge and walk about 150 meters to the temple Wat Siri Mangkla Tao Noi, which has a Chedi similar to the famous one at Phra That Phanom in the nearby province of Nakhon Phanom. Inside the Chedi are gorgeous bas-relief bronze murals and Buddha relics.
