Phra That Din Thaen stands on a large mound made entirely of earth — a result of generations of faithful villagers continuously adding soil to honor the teachings of an itinerant monk who once passed through the area about 200 years ago.
According to local legend, this monk encouraged the villagers to abandon the old belief of spirit worship, which involved animal sacrifices, and instead embrace Buddhism. He established three moral precepts:

1. Refrain from killing animals

2. Avoid violating Buddhist precepts

3. Abandon witchcraft and spirit offerings

He further taught that if the people wished for something sacred to venerate, they should build a stupa from earth instead of performing sacrifices. From this teaching came the name “Phra That Din Thaen,” meaning “the stupa made of earth instead.”

Over the years, people who made vows and saw their wishes fulfilled would return to the site to “repay” their blessings by bringing soil, stones, or even umbrellas to place on the stupa mound as an offering of gratitude. This tradition continues to this day, symbolizing a living connection between faith and community.

Surrounding the stupa are sacred trees such as Bodhi, banyan, and teak, often wrapped with colorful cloths and adorned with offerings of flowers and incense. The calm atmosphere, combined with the gentle chanting of visiting monks, makes this site a serene place for meditation and spiritual reflection.

Behind the stupa lies a short but steep trail leading to a small hilltop shrine known for the Buddha’s footprint, a revered spot believed to bless those who reach it with peace and prosperity. From the top, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the lush rice fields and the peaceful scenery of Na Haeo District — especially breathtaking during the rainy season when mist drifts over the valley.

Each year, on the full moon day of the sixth lunar month, the villagers hold the Phra That Din Thaen Festival, a significant merit-making event featuring almsgiving, religious chanting, and the ceremonial bathing of the stupa. This celebration draws both locals and pilgrims, reaffirming the community’s enduring Buddhist faith.

Today, Phra That Din Thaen is maintained by the Saeng Pha Subdistrict Administrative Organization and is included in the Na Haeo Cultural Route, linking other sacred sites such as Phra That Si Song Rak, Wat Pho Chai Na Phueng, and Phu Suan Sai National Park — offering visitors a journey that combines both spirituality and natural beauty.

• From Na Haeo District, take Highway No. 2113 for about 2 kilometers toward Ban Mueang Phrae, then turn left onto Highway No. 1268 (the route to Phu Suan Sai National Park). Continue for approximately 8 kilometers to reach Ban Saeng Pha. There are clear signs leading to Phra That Din Thaen. The road is well-paved, and there is a small parking area near the entrance, from which visitors can walk up to the stupa.

• Remove your shoes before ascending the stupa mound as a sign of respect.

• Visitors who wish to make merit by offering soil or sandstone may bring their own or inquire with local villagers.

• The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon for a peaceful atmosphere and mild weather.

• Dress respectfully and keep the sacred area clean at all times.

Entrance Fee

• Free admission

Opening Hours

• Open daily

• 07:00 a.m. – 06:00 p.m. (Hours may vary on Buddhist holy days)