Predating the town, Wak Okat is home to Phra Tiow and Phra Tiam, two sacred wooden Buddha images covered in gold that sit on the highest pedestal in the wí·hăhn (sanctuary). The current Tiam (on the right) is a replica because the original was stolen in 2010. The amazing modern murals showing the story of Phra Tiow and Phra Tiam floating across the Mekong from Laos are among our favourites – see if you can find the backpackers.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Clock Tower

0.14 MILES

This clock tower stands prominently in the centre of town.

2. Mekong Walking Street

0.19 MILES

This street market has little in the way of arts and crafts, but there's plenty of souvenirs and, of course, lots of food. The historic buildings give it…

3. Wat Si Thep

0.41 MILES

This historic temple's bóht (ordination hall) has a lot of flair. It's surrounded by statues of têp (angels) and has a colourful triptych on the back wall…

4. Wat Maha That

0.78 MILES

The 24m-tall, gold-and-white Phra That Nakhon chedi here resembles the previous chedi built at That Phanom.

5. Former Governor's Residence Museum

1.2 MILES

Museum Juan, as it's also known, is on the riverfront and fills a beautiful restored 1925 mansion with photos of old Nakhon Phanom, many labelled in…

6. Ho Chi Minh Museum

2.57 MILES

This is the least visited but most educational of the three Ho Chi Minh–related attractions in Ban Na Chok village. Covering his whole life, it's mostly…

7. Ho Chi Minh House

2.61 MILES

The best of the three Ho Chi Minh–related attractions in Ban Na Chok village, this is a replica of the simple wooden house where 'Uncle Ho' sometimes…

8. Ho Chi Minh Memorial

2.69 MILES

Aiming for the tour bus crowd, there's a tasteful shrine at the centre of this walled complex in Ban Na Chok village, but the fake mountain, souvenir…