Wat Sakawan was originally a forest meditation temple located at the foothills of Phu Kum Khao, Sahatsakhan District, Kalasin Province. It has long been a peaceful spiritual center and an important place of faith for the local community. It later became a major turning point in Thailand’s paleontological history in 1994.A key event occurred when Phra Khru Wichit Sahatsakhun (Luang Pu Ha Supharo) discovered a large bone protruding from the ground within the temple area after rainfall. At first, it was not clear what the remains were. Later, geologists and researchers from the Department of Mineral Resources, together with Thai–French research teams, investigated the site and confirmed that it was a fossil of a large herbivorous dinosaur in the sauropod group.Systematic excavations revealed more than 700 fossil bone fragments from at least seven individual dinosaurs. The site is considered one of the most complete and significant fossil discoveries in the world, particularly for the species Phuwiangosaurus sirindhornae, a long-necked herbivorous dinosaur that plays an important role in understanding the evolution of life in Southeast Asia.

Today, the area has been developed into a scientific learning and educational tourism site, divided into several zones:

• The Fossil Excavation Site, featuring a protective building covering the original rock layers and fossil positions in situ.

• The Sirindhorn Museum, a major center for dinosaur and geological learning, exhibiting displays from the origin of the Earth and evolution of life to life-size dinosaur models.

• The Wat Sakawan temple area, which remains a sacred site with important Buddha images and a main hall where visitors come to pay respect and seek blessings.

Beyond its scientific value, the site also holds spiritual significance as it beautifully integrates religious faith with paleontological knowledge. As a result, Wat Sakawan is recognized as one of Thailand’s most important destinations for both spiritual tourism and educational learning.

• By car: From Kalasin city, take Highway 227 to Sahatsakhan District (28 km), then follow signs for another 2 km to the temple.

• By public transport: Take a bus or minivan on the Kalasin–Sahatsakhan route, get off at Sahatsakhan town, then take a local taxi or motorcycle taxi to the temple.

• Allow at least 2–3 hours to fully explore both the temple and the museum.

• It is recommended to visit in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for walking.
• Be cautious of monkeys in the area; keep valuables, hats, and food securely stored.

• You can reach the Phu Kum Khao summit either by walking up the stairs or driving (the road is quite steep, so caution is advised).

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the area includes both indoor exhibits and walking paths to viewpoints.

Admission Fee:

• Wat Sakawan / Fossil excavation site: Free of charge

Opening Hours:

• Wat Sakawan: 06:00 – 18:00 (Open daily)