“Phra That Thep Chinda Ban Diem is an ancient pagoda that has been a symbol of the city, located on the edge of Nong Han Lake. It was built to enshrine the relics of the Lord Buddha. It is a spiritual center and a place to study the beautiful traditions and culture of the Ban Diem people.”
Phra That Thep Chinda Ban Diam, often known locally as "Wat Pa Ban Diam," is a significant Great Chedi majestically situated on the banks of Nong Han, a massive natural water source and vital ecosystem in Udon Thani Province. The chedi was constructed to enshrine the Lord Buddha's relics, making this site not merely a religious structure but a profound center of faith for the Ban Diam community and the surrounding areas. Although the exact date of its initial construction is unclear, the chedi has been continuously maintained and restored, signifying the deep, unwavering spiritual connection of the local people to Buddhism.
The architecture of Phra That Thep Chinda is characterized by its simple yet powerfully serene design, reflecting the authentic style of local Isaan (Northeastern Thai) art. The architectural details are a testament to the wisdom passed down through generations of local craftsmen. The temple grounds are maintained with tranquility, shaded by large trees, and exceptionally clean, establishing Wat Pa Ban Diam as a sanctuary for the mind and an ideal place for meditation, spiritual practice, or simply escaping the chaos of daily life for genuine mental rest.
Beyond its religious significance, the temple's location offers an unparalleled vista. Standing right beside Nong Han, visitors can fully appreciate the beauty of the water body and the surrounding wetland ecosystem. This is especially true during sunrise and sunset, when the golden light bathes the chedi and the water's surface, creating a spectacular, memorable scene. A visit here is thus a blend of religious merit-making and the appreciation of natural beauty. Moreover, tourists can observe the traditional way of life of the Ban Diam villagers, such as their local fishing practices and subsistence activities along the Nong Han, which reflects a vibrant culture of reliance on nature.
The temple also serves as the central hub for important community traditions, including the Sixth Month Merit-Making, or Rocket Festival, a rain-seeking ritual based on Isaan beliefs, and the annual Khatina ceremony. Participating in or observing these events offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the preserved local customs and the unique cultural identity of the Isaan people up close.
How to Get There
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Private Car: Travel along Highway 22 (Udon Thani-Sakon Nakhon). When you reach Nong Han District, turn onto Rural Road (A.D. 2021) towards Ban Diem. The temple is located along the road near Nong Han.
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Public Transport: Take a van or bus from Udon Thani city center to Nong Han District. Then, take a songthaew or motorcycle taxi to Ban Diem.
Travel Tips
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Best time to visit: Early morning or evening to avoid the heat and enjoy the stunning scenery along Nong Han Lake.
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Dress Code: Dress appropriately, as this is a sacred site.
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Activities: Rent a long-tail boat from the locals to explore the beauty of Nong Han Lake and the surrounding wetlands.
Admission Fees:
- No Admission Fees
Opening Hours:
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Open 24 hours a day, every day.
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Recommendation: While the temple is open 24 hours a day, it is recommended to visit and pay respects to the Phra That during the daytime (approximately 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM) for ease of access, safety, and to enjoy the beautiful daytime scenery surrounding Nong Han Lake.