Chaiyaphum Attractions

Amphoe Muang

Kut Ngong

is a village which has temple boundary stones sculpted into various postures of Lord Buddha. The villagers have gathered about 20 of the stones and placed them in Ban Kut Ngong School in Tambon Nong Na Saeng. There are 2 ways to Kut Ngong; take the Chaiyaphum : Bua Yai Road for 12 km. then turn right to Ban Kut Tum and proceed to Ban Kut Ngong 12 km. away, another way is on the Chaiyaphum Si Khiu or Highway No.201 form Non Hai intersection to the south for 6 km. and turn left to Ban Khwa Noi, straight to Ban Bung Khla, and another left for 2 km. To Ban Kut Ngong.

Phra Chao Pho Phraya Lae Shrine

is near Nong Pla Thao, 4 km. To the west of the Provincial Hall on Highway No. 205 (Chaiyaphum : Ban Khawao). To the right is a sacred historical site which is where Chao Pho Phraya Lae was executed by Lao soldiers. Locals built the shrine to honor him and to have the spirit protect the Chaiyaphum and Thai people. Every year, beginning on the first Wednesday of May, a week long festival in his honor is held.

Prang-Ku

is an ancient late rite site. Inside is a Buddha image from the Dvaravati period. King Chaiworaman Vll, the last great king of the Khmer Empire, ordered it built during 782-1220. Regarded by the people here as a sacred place, a festival is held at the site in the middle of April every year. Prang Ku is in Chaiyaphum Municipality and is 1 km. of the Provincial Hall. An asphalt road leads to the site.

Tat Tone National Park

Only 20 kms. From town along the highway 2051, is a highly scenic spot excellent for rest or picnic. The park has a total area 135,738 rai. The area was proclaimed a National Park on December 31, 1980.

What to see in Tat Tone National Park:

- Chao Pho Tat Tone Shrine (Duang)

is near Tat Tone Waterfall and is revered by Chaiyaphum people and those from nearby provinces. Chao Pho Tat Tone was a man of Khmer origin who migrated to Thailand at about the same time as Chao Pho Phraya Lae. While he was in Thailand, he became a hermit who mediated, followed strict Buddhist laws and cured people of illness. He was widely revered by locals and when he died, several shrines were built to honor him such as Chao Pho Achan Duang Shrine or Phu Duang Shrine at Chong Sam Mo, Pu Duang Shrine at Wat Phra Puttha Chaiyaphum Phithak and this shrine at Tat Tone Waterfall. A ritual is performed every Wednesday to please spirits at the shrine, plus 4 major rites every year.

- Pha Eiang Waterfall

is around 32 km. northwest of the Provincial Hall on Highway No.2159 (Chaiyaphum - Nong Bua Daeng). This is a medium-sized waterfall that is a slant cliff across a stream which makes the waterfall fall to one side of the cliff. The waterfall is west of Tat Tone National Park at Lam Huai Chi Long. The area surrounding the waterfall is a dry, thick jungle which has many big tress, making for a shady area ideal for relaxation.

- Phu Faet

in Tambon Na Siao is a low hill with the main attraction being a footprint of Lord Buddha like that in Saraburi. About 18 km. from the Provincial Hall, visitors can take the same route as Phu Phra and turn right for 5 more km. A variety of trees are planted here and they are lined on both sides of the road leading to the temple. People wishing to view the footprint can ask for a key from the nuns there.

- Phu Phra

is in Wat Sila Asana, 12 km. north of the Provincial Hall on Highway No.201 (Chaiyaphum - Kaeng Khro). This is a low mountain which has a bas - relief of a meditating Buddha image which is called Phra Chao Ong Tu by locals. Phu Phra is in Tambon Na Siao.

- Tat Fa Waterfall

or Tham Tia Waterfall is both a small cave at the foot of Khao Phu E Thao and a steep waterfall about 15-20 meters wide, 80-90 meters high and has a 30 degree angle. There is year - round water flow and a pool provides splendid swimming. The waterfall is in Tambon Na Siao, 25 km. north of the city on highway No.201.

- Sa Hong

is in Wat Khao Sa Hong. It is an ancient pool in the middle of a small slope. About 3 meters from the pool is a swan shaped stone which was designed by nature. The pool is in Tambon Na Siao, 12 km. to the north of the Provincial Hall on Highway No.2051 on the left (the road to Cho Raka Reservoir).

- Tat Tone Waterfall

is one of the highest and most beautiful waterfalls in the Northeast. There is a stone terrace 50 meters wide and 6 meters high. It has a year-round flow of water, which is especially abundant in the rainy season during April-September. The source of the waterfall is the mountains that surround national forest reserves which are Phu Khong, Phu Yuak, and Phu E Thao, all of which connect each other to create the Lankha mountain Range. Rainwater accumulate here and gradually flows down to Huai Prachao and eventually to Tat Tone Waterfall.

Amphoe Ban Khawao

Ban Khwao Silk Weaving Village

is famous for high quality silk. The village is 13 km. from the town hall on Highway No.225 (turn left at Amphoe Ban Khwao Police Station).

Amphoe Ban Thaen

Phra Thaen Banlang

is in Ban Thaen Public Health area. 1 km. east of the town hall. The pedestal is made of rock with a hole in the middle believed to have held something in place. Around the hole is a ditch, probably to let water flow out. Two gold Buddha images were found in the ground near the pedestal

Amphoe Khon San

Chulabhorn Dam (Nam Phrom Dam)

is in Tambon Thung Lui Lai. 40 km. southwest of the town hall. This is a hydroelectric dam built by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) in 1970 and completed in 1972. The dam is brooks Lam Nam Phrom which flows from watersheds in Phu Khiao Wildlife Reserve and Nam Nao National Park which is a mountain range dividing Chaiyaphum and Petchabun.

Chulabhorn Dam is an earth - filled sam like Sirikit Dam. It is 700 meters long, 70 meters high and 8 meters wide. It has a water capacity of 188 million cubic meters and can generate 140 million units of electricity. The dam is surrounded by high mountains and dense jungle. A cool climate prevails throughout the year. Part of the beautiful scenery includes a royal residence and an experimental cold-weather crop growing center. Guest houses are available to tourists.

Reservations can be made by contacting tel. 043-224133 ext. 2287. There are also boats for rent to view the dam. Sala Daeng north of the dam is a pavilion which is a perfect retreat for those wanting some peace and quiet. Sala Loop Kuan sits high above the dam and offers a panoramic view of nearby areas. One can view the horseshoe-shaped mountain covered by mists, the valley below and the generating plan from here. On a clear day one can also Phu Kradung mountain far away.

From Amphoe Phu Khiao, turn right onto Highway No. 201 (Phu Khiao-Chum Phae). Upon reaching Nong Song Hong intersection, turn left onto Highway No. 2055. The distance from Amphoe Muang is 120 km.

Nam Phut Na Lao

is a small geyser that becomes a stream that flows down to irrigate orchards. The water is crystal clear the year round. The water from underground spurts up to make pools large and small. Nam Phut Na Lao is behind Khon San Witthayakhom School, 2 km. from the intersection with the police kiosk on the Lom Sak route and turn left onto a late rite road for 500 meters and another left for 100 meters. Large trees and pavilions offer shade.

Nam Phut Thap Lao

is southwest of Ban Phan Niat, 11 km. from the intersection with the police kiosk. It can be reached by taking the road to Chulabhorn Dam for 8 km. and turn right onto a late rite for 3 km. Opens everyday from 08.30-16.30 hrs. No admission fee.

Nam Phut Na Wong Duan

is southwest of Ban Na Wong Duan from the intersection with the police kiosk, take the Chulabhorn Dam road and turn right to Ban Na Wong Duan for 1km. Nam Phut Na Wong Duan is a large pool.

Nam Phut Hin Lat Wanarom

or Nam Phut Hin Lat is at Ban Nam Phu Hin Lat, Tambon Thung Phra, 6 km. north of the town hall. The nature is quite breathtaking.

Phu Khiao Wildlife Reserve

covers the areas of Amphoe Khon San, Kaset Sombun and Nong Bua Daeng. The reserve is active in preserving wildlife and watershed, as well as a favorite spot for nature tours for youths and the public.

Thung Kramang

is a wildlife reserve in Phu Khiao Wildlife Reserve on a hillside. Its large area of 5,000 Rai has wide plains and a fantastic scenery. Situated 900 meters above sea level, the reserve has many grass fields on various elevations. Several streams flow through the area. The flora here is thick jungle mixed with pine forests. No large trees here, only numerous species of plants in places. The plains are like large overturned bowls in the jungle. Exotic birds in the plains make the area very lively.

The tourist who want to visit Thung Kramang must make an advance reservation at Phu Khiao Wildlife Reserve. P.O.Box 3, Amphoe Chumphae. Khon Kaen Province 40130. Tel. 01-2102234.

Amphoe Chaturat

Bung Lahan

is 35 km. south of the Provincial Hall. Turn off Highway No. 201, 7 km. before reaching the town hall and drive on for 500 meters. Bung Lahan is a natural lake with an area over 10,000 Rai. The lake has an abundance of freshwater fish. In winter countless waterfowls feed here.

Amphoe Kaset Sombun

Huai Kum Dam

is an irrigational dam downstream from Nam Phrom Dam on the Phrom River. A pavilion offers a good view of the nice scenery here. The dam is adjacent to the road in Tambon Kut Lo 102 km. North of Amphoe Muang.

Amphoe Khon Sawan

Bung Waeng

is a round lake of 350 Rai. A ring road circles the lake. Over 40,000 waterfowls make their home here during the winter months of November - April. These waterfowls fly up to sunlight at dusk, creating a truly picturesque sight. The lake is in front of the town hall, 38 km. northeast of the Provincial Hall

Large Dvaravati Buddha Image

at Wat Khon Sawan, 5 km. from the town hall ( at the intersection of the Ban Nong Pa Buk Water Station). This is a sandstone image with a nice form and intricate designs built in the Dvaravati period. The image is called "Luang Pho Yai" by locals. In addition, there are many temple boundary stones, carved and uncarved.

Amphoe Nong Bua Daeng

Pha Koeng

is a mountain that has a rock jutting out to the road and an awesome scenery. It is one popular viewing spot of Chaiyaphum. The 14-foot : high Chaiyaphum Phithak Buddha image stands atop the mountain. It is part of Phu Lankha and has a considerably wide area. Pha Koeng is in Wat Chaiyaphum Phithak. It is 36 km. from Amphoe Muang on Highway No. 2159 (Chaiyaphum : Nong Bua Daeng).

Amphoe Phakdi Chomphon

Tham Kaew

is 2 km. from Tham Phra and is on the other side of Wua Daeng Mountain Range. Sparkling stalactites and stalagmites can be found here.

Tham Phra

is a large cave in Wua Daeng Mountain Range. The cave is worth exploring for its many interesting corners and a pavilion insides which was once the residence of a monk who is now deceased. Another monk lives there now. The cave is in Tambon Laem Thong, 20 km. From the town hall.

Tham Prathun

is a medium sized cave atop the Wua Daeng Range. It used to be a resting place for army generals hundreds of years ago. The cave used to have some gold as evident from the are sifting pools in front.

Amphoe Phu Khiao

Ban Khae Groomed Tako

is at a village which specializes in selling groomed Tako and Khoi trees. The village is on Highway No. 201,55 km. from Amphoe Muang.

Pha Khit Products Center

was established by the Ban Non Salao Pha Khit Silk Weaving Women Group. The center is at Mu 6. Tambon Nong Tum. on Highway No.201, 5 km. from Ban Khae Groomed Tako Village, and turn right for 3 km. The village is renowned for producing lovely silk and cotton cloths and pillows.

Local Handicrafts Sales Center

is in Phak Pang Public Health Area in Tambon Phu Khiao. The center sells many products at very reasonable prices. The center is on the Phu Khiao-Chum Phae Road.

Phra That Nong Sam Mun

is at Ban Kaeng . Mu 1. Tambon Ban Kaeng , 25 km . northwest of the town hall. Phra That Nong Sam Mun is in Wat Phra That Nong Sam Mun and is an ancient historical site. The site is a beautiful pagoda that was built 400-500 years ago which has been renovated through funding from the green I-SAN Project.

The main features are a large reclining Buddha image and a large chapel built close to the ground called Sala Phan Hong. The rooms inside are quite large. The rooms signify the 1,000 verses of the Maha Chat sermon that must be learned before one achieves total fulfillment. The temple was built by Luang Pho Sithat Wipatsano in 1962. There are also statues of characters from stories in Buddhism. To reach the temple, take Highway No. 201 (Chaiyaphum - Chum Phae) to Ban Nong Song Hong and turn left onto Highway No. 2055. The total distance is 115 km.

Amphoe Thep Satit

Pa Hin Ngam National Park

is a forest which has some strange rocks of many shapes scattered over the 200 rai area. Assorted small trees and orchids also cover the area. Some rocks are shaped like nails. While other are like the heads of Naga, a mythical serpent, and still others are like ancient castles. In the rainy season during June - July. The Krachiao flower which is a jungle flower pink and purple in color grows all over the ground, adding beautiful color grows all over the ground, adding beautiful color to the forest. In winter during December-January, yellow orchids and wild flowers appear from rock crevasses.

Large and small waterfalls abound here such as Thep Phana and Thep Prathan. A steep cliff 665 metres above sea level called Sut Phaen Din Khop Thi Rap Sung (the farthest point of the plateau) has lovely rock formations. The forest is in Tambon Ban Rai.

To get to the forest from Chaiyaphum, take Highway No.201 (Chaiyaphum-Si Khiu) to Nong Bua Khok intersection and turn right onto Highway No.205 past the town hall for 1 km. Then turn right at the police Kiosk for 29 km. And turn left for 14 km. To the forest. The distance from Amphoe Muang is 130 km.
There are accommodation available to tourists. For further information contact Pa Hin Ngam National Park. P.O.Box 2, Amphoe Thepsatit, Chaiyaphum Province 36230. Tel. 01- 9307581.

Thep Phana Waterfall

is a medium - sized waterfall in thick jungle which has a cool climate and lots of water during May - October. The waterfall has different looks from different angles. It is 48 km. From the town hall.

Thep Prathan Waterfall

is an almost flat waterfall of medium size. Rocks make up low terraces from top to bottom. A steep part has plenty of water during May : October. It is 34 km. from the town hall.