A Community Rich in Heritage
Na Haeo is a place where Thai and Lao people share deep familial ties, creating a close-knit community atmosphere. Surrounded by majestic mountains, this district is home to numerous natural attractions, including Phu Suan Sai National Park, Tad Heuang Waterfall, and Phu Nong. However, the true gem of Ban Sang Pa is the ancient Wat Si Phothichai.
Discover Ban Sang Pa A Hidden Gem in Na Haeo, Loei
Once considered a remote and difficult-to-reach destination, Na Haeo District in Loei has transformed into a place that’s easier to access, thanks to improved roads and infrastructure. Nestled on the border with Laos, separated only by the gentle flow of the Heuang River, Na Haeo is a town steeped in a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Wat Si Phothichai Viewpoint: A panoramic view of Wat Si Phothichai seen through lush green rice fields, with Ban Sang Pa village nestled in the background.
Wat Si Phothichai: A Journey Through Time
Wat Si Phothichai is a historic temple that dates back several centuries. Its architecture and the Lao-style Buddha statue are a testament to the region’s rich religious and artistic heritage. This temple is a must-visit for anyone interested in historical architecture and religious art.
Candlelight Procession on Asalha Puja Day: The serene candlelight procession at Wat Si Phothichai during Asalha Puja Day.
Offering Flowers After the Candlelight Procession: Villagers placing flowers, incense, and candles around the temple grounds after the candlelight procession.
Flower Tree Procession: The vibrant Flower Tree Procession taking place in the courtyard of Wat Si Phothichai, held every Buddhist holy day throughout April.
The Flower Tree Procession: A Unique Tradition
One of Ban Sang Pa’s most captivating traditions is the "Flower Tree Procession," held during Songkran. This event is a beautiful demonstration of community spirit and cultural preservation. The men of the village skillfully craft a tree structure from bamboo, while the women gather and prepare flowers to adorn it. The decorated tree is then carried to Wat Si Phothichai, where it is paraded around the temple in a traditional dance known as "Seung." This intricate dance requires perfect coordination to keep the tree balanced. The procession concludes with a sermon, after which the flower tree is left at the temple until the next day.
Making the Flower Tree for Songkran (1): Villagers gathering to craft the flower tree for Songkran, with men cutting bamboo and weaving the large structure.
Making the Flower Tree for Songkran (2): Women collecting and preparing flowers from around the village to decorate the flower tree.
Exploring Na Haeo: A Complete Experience
To truly appreciate Na Haeo, consider staying overnight. Even if your visit doesn’t coincide with the Flower Tree Procession, there are plenty of other attractions to explore. These include:
- Wat Si Phothichai: Located in Ban Sang Pa, this temple offers a glimpse into the region’s ancient past.
Lao-style Buddha Statue: The Lao-style Buddha statue inside Wat Si Phothichai.
- Phu Huai Hom Viewpoint: Situated in Phu Suan Sai National Park, this spot provides breathtaking views.
Misty Mountains: A view of rain mist over the mountains, captured from the Phu Huai Hom viewpoint (campsite) in Phu Suan Sai National Park.
- Thai-Laos Border at Ban Mueang Phrae: Experience the cultural exchange at this border village.
Heuang River: The narrow Heuang River marking the Thai-Laos border at Ban Mueang Phrae in Na Haeo District.
- Phu Nong: Hike to this peak to witness a stunning sea of mist.
Rai Lung Nueng Lodge: A small bamboo lodge in Ban Sang Pa, known as 'Rai Lung Nueng,' offering a serene and natural setting with tiered structures that ensure unobstructed views and high privacy.
Local Crafts and Delicacies
Don’t leave without sampling local crafts and products. Ban Mueang Phrae is known for its exquisite bamboo products, while Ban Bo Mueang Noi offers delicious macadamia nuts from the local agricultural community.
Macadamia Processing Facility: The macadamia nut processing facility.
Original Macadamia Plantation: The original macadamia plantation, now expanded with additional plantings.
White Chocolate-coated Macadamia Nuts: A close-up of white chocolate-coated macadamia nuts, a specialty product from the Ban Bo Mueang Noi agricultural community enterprise.
Best Time to Visit
For the most picturesque experience, visit during the late rainy season or early winter. During this time, the rice fields are lush and green, gradually turning golden by late autumn. This period highlights the natural beauty of the region, offering a serene and picturesque landscape.
Misty Rice Fields: A view of misty rain over the rice fields of Ban Sang Pa, a common sight from the rainy season to early winter.
A trip to Ban Sang Pa
in Na Haeo is more than just a visit; it’s a journey into a community rich in culture and surrounded by natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, participating in local traditions, or enjoying the scenic views, Na Haeo promises an unforgettable travel experience.
Route 2113 Scenic View: The scenic Route 2113 from Dan Sai to Na Haeo, featuring the 'Kao Ngom' viewpoint with its sharp, hairpin turns and breathtaking mountain views.
Editor in Chief : Nampetch Siramanon
Editor: Pacific Leisure (Thailand)
Content Creator : Mr. Saroj Na Ayutthaya