Phra That Si Song Rak was built on the banks of the Mun River in Dan Sai, Loei Province, during the reign of King Chai Setthathirath of the Lan Xang Kingdom in 1560 BE (A.D. 1517) and completed in 1563 BE (A.D. 1520). It served as a witness to mutual assistance and alliance between Ayutthaya under King Maha Chakkraphat and Lan Xang (present-day Vientiane, Lao PDR).

During that era, Burma was expanding aggressively, invading neighboring territories. The two kings agreed to cooperate militarily and politically and made a solemn oath not to encroach on each other’s lands. To commemorate this alliance and friendship, they commissioned the construction of Phra That Si Song Rak at a midpoint between the Nan and Mekong Rivers, marking the boundary between their kingdoms.

The stupa is built of brick and stucco in a bell shape, painted white, standing majestically on a hill and enclosed by a protective wall. It houses sacred Buddhist relics, symbolizing peace and sanctity.

Inside the temple complex is a Buddha statue in the Naga Prok posture, in Tibetan style. The naga head is carved from stone, and the statue itself is made of bronze, measuring 21 inches across the lap and 30 inches tall. There are also murals and carvings that depict the history of the two kingdoms and their interactions with Burma.

Phra That Si Song Rak serves as a spiritual center for the people of Dan Sai and Lao communities on the west bank of the Mekong, representing love, unity, and auspiciousness. Worshippers believe that paying respect here enhances friendship, family love, and life peace.

Every year on the 15th day of the 6th lunar month, the "Candle Tree Festival" (Luk Phueng Luk Thian) is held. Villagers offer a candle tree, made from a wooden frame covered with banana stalk patterns and decorated with beeswax flowers, as a ritual to honor the stupa and pray for love, unity, and blessings. This sacred tradition has been maintained for over 400 years.

The stupa is also associated with those born in the Year of the Goat (Mae), attracting continuous worshippers. The surrounding area features lush greenery, scenic views of the Mun River and nearby hills, and offers beautiful sunrise and sunset vistas. The climb to the stupa provides a serene connection to nature and a chance to study the Lan Xang architectural style and Ayutthaya artistry.

Phra That Si Song Rak is not only a religious site but also a historical symbol reflecting the relationship between two kingdoms. Its preservation and the annual festival help maintain cultural heritage and foster understanding between nations.

• By private car: From Loei town, take Highway 203 (Loei–Phu Ruea), then Highway 2013 toward Dan Sai. Turn right onto Highway 2113 for about 1 km. The stupa is located along the Mun River.

• By public transport: Take a bus to Dan Sai District, then use local transport.

• Do not wear red clothing or bring red items into the stupa area.

• Do not open umbrellas, wear hats, or shoes inside the protective wall.

• Children under 3 years old should not be brought to worship.

Admission

• Free of charge

Opening Hours

• Daily: 06:00 – 17:00