Prasat Ban Phanna, commonly known as Ku Phanna, is a significant historical site situated on the ancient Khmer civilization route in Upper Northeastern Thailand. It is believed to have been constructed during the 18th Buddhist century during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, the last great monarch of the Khmer Empire. This site was not merely a place of worship but functioned as an "Arokayasala" (Hospital Chapel), one of the 102 medical facilities established across the empire to provide healthcare to the local populace and travelers, reflecting the compassionate principles of Mahayana Buddhism.

The architectural structure primarily utilizes laterite as the main building material, featuring a central main sanctuary with a square plan and indented corners. The layout includes the principal tower and a library (Bannalai) located to the southeast, all enclosed within a boundary wall with a single entrance, the Gopura (Entrance Pavilion), facing east to align with the symbolic direction of birth and prosperity. Outside the walls lies an ancient pond, or Baray, lined with laterite steps, which remains filled with water for most of the year, showcasing the sophisticated ancient engineering and water management used for both daily consumption and medicinal rituals.

During excavations and restorations by the Fine Arts Department, several vital artifacts were unearthed, confirming the site’s Bayon architectural style. These include the head of a Vajradhara Buddha image, fragments of Bodhisattvas, and Vajrapani icons, which are now safely preserved. The relatively well-preserved structure of Prasat Ban Phanna allows visitors and historians to vividly envision the grandeur of the past. Today, it stands as a registered national ancient monument and a proud cultural landmark of Sakon Nakhon province, attracting those who wish to explore the profound heritage of the Khmer Empire.

• From Sakon Nakhon city, take Highway 22 (Sakon Nakhon-Udon Thani route) towards Sawang Daen Din district, approximately 70 kilometers. At kilometer 84 (near Ban Phanna), there is a left turn leading approximately 2 kilometers further to the temple. The paved road provides easy access to the temple.

• Bring an umbrella or hat, as the area around the archaeological site is open and quite sunny.

• The best time for photography is in the morning before 10:00 AM or in the evening after 4:00 PM for softer light.

• Please dress respectfully and behave modestly, as this is a sacred archaeological site revered by the locals.

• Avoid touching or writing on the laterite stones to help preserve the ancient structure.

• We recommend visiting the nearby Pannaburi Project to purchase indigo-dyed fabrics and sample local Sakon Nakhon cuisine.

• You can scan the QR code on the Fine Arts Department information sign for more in-depth historical information.

Admission Fees:

• Free Admission (No entry fee for both Thai and foreign visitors)

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 08:00 AM – 06:30 PM