Description
While Wat Phrathat Phanom in the neighboring province of Nakhom Phanom is one of Thailand's most sacred chedis, Wat Phrathat Phon Thong (วัดพระธาตุโพนทอง) in Sakon Nakhon is a fascinating chedi that deserves more attention — not just from the public and Buddhist faithful, but the provincial government who should invest more money and effort into restoring this unique cultural landmark in Northeast Thailand.
The Phrathat Phon Thong chedi was built during the 1800s. It provides visitors with a fascinating opportunity to see original ancient Isaan/Lao Buddhist folk art, of which there are not many existing examples. The sides of the chedi are decorated with unusual depictions of the Buddha, Phra Mae Thorani (the Earth Goddess), Phra Rahu (Eating the Sun), Birds, Alligators, Elephants, Horses, Soldiers, and Flowers.
However, the entire outer facade is in great need of restoration. There also are several old folk-art sculptures on the grounds worth saving, such as an unusual Buddha (protected by Naga) statue and a Singha lion figure. Thus an effort from a group like the Arts Department at Sakon Nakhon Rajabhat University or the National Government's Fine Arts Department under the Ministry of Culture really needs to be taken to preserve this Thai cultural treasure.
Wat Phon Thong also is an important historical temple, for it is the one where Luang Pu Fan Acharo was ordained as a Naga novice monk in 1919. Ajarn Fan is one of Thailand's most legendary monks. He was a teacher and advisor to King Bhumibol the Great, who greatly revered the wise forest monk from Sakon Nakhon.
The Ajarn Fun Acharo Museum at Wat Pa Udom Somphon (a temple often visited by King Rama IX) is located just down the road from Wat Phrathat Phon Thong (วัดพระธาตุโพนทอง). Both Buddhist temples are in the Phanna Nikhom sub-district, which is about 40 minutes from Sakon Nakhon city.
