Visit Wat Kham Chanot (Udon Thani)

Wat Kham Chanot is a very popular temple among Thai Buddhists. It is located almost 100 kilometers east of Udon Thani town, by a lake. It is a sacred place that the inhabitants of the neighboring regions, but also all Thai Buddhists, respect because the legend says that it is an entry into the underground world for the legendary Phaya Nak (the big Naga serpent ) who would therefore live here. The most important and sacred part of the complex is its island, which is accessed by a path whose sides are long statues of Naga snakes. There is a important density of a palm trees called kham chanod which gave their name to the temple. On the island, there is the Chaophu Sri Suttho shrine, a huge tree and a sacred well for worship.

In the part near the parking lot, you will find shops selling food of course, but also clothes and images of Phaya Nak without forgetting the lottery ticket sellers because some also come to Wat Kham Chanod in the hope of finding the lucky numbers. You will also find a large standing Buddha in front of the access to the Phaya Nak islet. On the 10 kilometers before arriving to the temple, there are by the side of the road, very numerous stalls selling Naga snakes made with folded banana leaves and trying to get the attention of the drivers because it is the number 1 offering to be made at Wat Kham Chanod. Architecturally speaking, it is not the most interesting temple in Udon Thani province, but it is a must visit for Thai Buddhists traveling in the region. Visit to couple, if you do it, with the neighboring Ban Dung village which produces salt and a moment of relaxation at Kunnapat Rock Salt Spa which is about a fifteen minute drive from the temple.