Pha Nam Yoi Forest Park is located along the Phu Khiao mountain range within the Dong Ma-i National Reserved Forest in Nong Phok District, Roi Et Province. The area features complex mountainous terrain covered with dry evergreen and deciduous dipterocarp forests. The weather remains cool and pleasant throughout most of the year, especially during the late rainy season and early winter when the landscape becomes lush green and morning mist gently blankets the mountains.The name “Pha Nam Yoi” comes from the park’s distinctive rocky cliff where water naturally seeps through cracks in the stone and drips continuously throughout the year. Even during the dry season, water still flows gently from the cliff. Local villagers believe this water to be sacred, symbolizing the fertility of the forest and the spiritual faith connected to the site.

The park’s most significant highlight is “Wat Pha Namthip Thep Prasit Wanaram,” a large forest monastery established by the highly respected meditation monk Luang Pu Sri Mahaviro. Within the temple grounds stands the magnificent “Phra Maha Chedi Chai Mongkhon,” a grand golden pagoda regarded as one of the most beautiful Buddhist architectural landmarks in Thailand.The pagoda was designed as a fusion of multiple artistic traditions, including Rattanakosin, Lan Xang, and Northeastern Thai Buddhist art, inspired by both Phra Pathom Chedi and Phra That Phanom. The entire structure follows the auspicious number “101,” representing Roi Et Province: 101 meters wide, 101 meters long, and 101 meters high, occupying an area of 101 rai.The exterior of the pagoda shines brilliantly with golden mosaic decorations and a spire made of approximately 60 kilograms of pure gold. When sunlight reflects upon the structure, it radiates brightly against the surrounding green mountains and forests.

Inside, Phra Maha Chedi Chai Mongkhon is divided into six levels, each serving a unique purpose:

Level 1
A spacious multipurpose hall used for religious ceremonies, merit-making activities, and gatherings during important Buddhist occasions. The interior is elegantly decorated with marble and intricate Thai motifs.

Level 2
A monks’ assembly hall and Buddhist study area featuring murals depicting the life of the Buddha and stories related to Buddhism in Northeastern Thailand.

Level 3
The ordination hall housing important Buddha images, marble statues of revered meditation masters, and 101 figures representing enlightened monks, which are considered rare and remarkable.

Level 4
An open-air panoramic viewpoint offering spectacular 360-degree views of the Phu Khiao mountains and surrounding forests. On clear days, visitors can see landscapes stretching across Roi Et, Kalasin, and Mukdahan Provinces.

Level 5
A museum displaying relics, personal belongings, and historical information about Luang Pu Sri Mahaviro, as well as exhibits about the construction of the pagoda and the forest meditation tradition.

Level 6
The highest and most sacred level, enshrining holy Buddha relics brought from several countries. Buddhist pilgrims often visit this floor to pay respects and seek blessings for good fortune and prosperity.

Beyond its religious and architectural significance, the surrounding area is also ideal for eco-tourism and meditation retreats due to its peaceful atmosphere, cool breezes, and pristine natural environment. Many visitors travel here to witness sunrise views and sea mist during the rainy and winter seasons, when the layered mountain scenery resembles an endless green ocean.During important Buddhist festivals such as Makha Bucha Day, Visakha Bucha Day, and Buddhist Lent, large numbers of pilgrims and visitors from across Thailand gather at Wat Pha Namthip to participate in candlelight processions, meditation activities, and worship ceremonies. This has made Pha Nam Yoi not only a spiritual center but also one of Roi Et Province’s most iconic landmarks

• By Car: From Roi Et city center, take Highway 2044 and continue onto Highway 2136 through Phon Thong District toward Nong Phok District, covering approximately 62 kilometers. Upon reaching Pha Nam Yoi Subdistrict, follow the signs leading to Ban Khok Klang and Wat Pha Namthip Thep Prasit Wanaram.

Admission Fee:

• Free admission

• (No entrance fee for both Thai and international visitors)

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM.