Thailand Temple with 1000 STEPS & Nicest Monks!!!

Location 1: Wat Phra Bat Phu Pan Kham Bhuddist Temple: https://goo.gl/maps/UARaRnwsfGhjDcYp6

Location 2: Ubolratana Dam: https://goo.gl/maps/s7iCT6vFxE6YNq17A

This is a great Thailand Travel Daytrip because you can actually visit two great locations in close proximity to each other. It does not matter which you visit first but I would recommend visiting the temple in the morning or evening (before sunset) to avoid the hottest part of the day. The Dam is a flat and easy walk with a coffee shop and restaurant nearby. Both close shortly after dark.

Our First Stop Wat Phra Bat Phu PanKham Bhuddist Temple:
Also known as the huge white Buddha of Ubol Ratana Dam, this temple is a must visit location for those near the province of Khon Kaen, in northern Thailand. Located under an hour and a half from the city center during normal traffic times, it’s a beautiful and scenic drive passing many designated viewing locations, some of which have restrooms. You will notice many of what locals call “big bikes” or motorcycles enjoying the twisting roads. You will pass through many small villages and although there weren’t many 7-11’s on the main road, there are many local shops offering drinks and snacks. I didn't Vlog the food options because we ended up eating noodles nearby.

When you arrive, you will see a long staircase that leads up to Wat Phra Bat Phu PanKham which are generally not steep, but are steep in places typically with steps marked with red. I actually injured toe and recommend taking off flip-flops for better bare-feet traction but of course running shoes would be the footwear of choice. This wasn't my first Thailand travel injury but it was my most minor with a black toenail lasting several weeks.

I want you to know that climbing these steps IS NOT necessary to see the large Buddha on top of the hill. We did not realize this and took the stairs thinking it was the only option. However; you can easily continue past the steps parking area and continue straight up the hill to the temple where you will find refreshments, parking and easy access to the shrine. However; I do recommend taking the stairs at least once. For me it was the hardest part of the experience but it lead to meeting several monks, making friends and a spiritual experience and sense of accomplishment. It makes the view of the eastern side of the Ubonrat Lake that much more beautiful, especially around sunset. Thailand travel does not get better than this!

Thank you to the monks and their supporters at Wat Phra Bat Phu Pan Kham Temple! We couldn’t have asked for a more friendly visit.

Our second stop: Ubolratana Dam

This is a very beautiful location which demonstrates the nature and ingenuity of the Thai people. It’s a great photography spot and close to sunset, it’s common to see wedding photographers accompanying brides in white. Also graduation photos and LOTS of people taking selfies.

There is easy parking, friendly security, a coffee shop and restaurant. We didn’t go to the restaurant but only because after all the walking at the temple before made us feel like delaying eating until later. The local reputation is that it is expensive which is understandable considering the view, but I would not hesitate to try it. However; we did try the local coffee shop and although the coffee isn’t very strong, it’s cold and refreshing.

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