Wat Pa Phu Kon is a Buddhist forest park whose origins are deeply rooted in nature conservation and the dissemination of the teachings of the Forest Tradition (the lineage of Luang Pu Mun Bhuridatta). The temple was established in 1987 by a group of devoted followers inspired by Luang Pu Mun's precepts, within the Nayung and Nam Som National Forest Reserve area, spanning the borders of three provinces: Udon Thani, Loei, and Nong Khai. At the time, this forest area was severely degraded. The founders were driven by the ambition to restore the forest's pristine condition and create a place for meditation and practice for monks and lay Buddhists.

The centerpiece of faith is the Phra Wihan Sangkhabidorn (The Great Vihara of the Sangkha's Father). Its contemporary Thai-applied architecture is strikingly beautiful, particularly its distinctive blue-green roof that shimmers in the sun. Inside the Vihara resides the Phra Buddha Saiyasana Lokanatha Sasda Mahamuni (the Great World-Protector, Teacher, and Sage Reclining Buddha). This colossal reclining Buddha image is 20 meters long and is uniquely carved from pure white marble imported from Carrara, Italy. It was meticulously crafted from 42 large pieces of marble joined together to form the entire statue.

The choice of white marble for the Reclining Buddha symbolizes the purity of the Dharma and the profound tranquility of Buddhist practice. The statue depicts the Buddha reclining on his right side with his left hand supporting his head, showcasing graceful artistry and requiring several years of carving and enshrinement. Furthermore, the interior walls of the Vihara are adorned with beautifully detailed paintings depicting the Buddha’s life story and the Jataka tales (Ten Great Incarnations), establishing the temple as a comprehensive resource for Buddhist learning.

Therefore, Wat Pa Phu Kon is not just a place of remarkable architectural beauty; it is truly a Phutthautthayan Maharukkhaparichat Phu Kon (Buddhist Park of the Great Heavenly Coral Tree of Phu Kon). It perfectly harmonizes the serenity of nature with profound faith, allowing visitors to feel the energy of peace and the spirit of conservation.

• Private Vehicle: Take the Udon Thani-Nong Khai Highway, then turn left towards Ban Phue and Na Yung Districts (Highway No. 2021) until you reach Ban Na Kham Yai, then turn into the temple.

• Caution: All vehicles are permitted to drive up to the temple grounds. However, large buses must be parked in the parking lot below the entrance, and then passengers take the temple's shared songthaew (minibus).

• Dress appropriately: As this is a forest temple, please dress modestly (no sleeveless shirts, pants, or short skirts).

• Coolness: The temple grounds are pleasantly cool and breezy, but it's recommended to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

• Photography: The viewpoints in the temple grounds and around the temple offer stunning photo opportunities, especially those showcasing the blue temple against the sky.

Admission Fees:

• No Admission Fees

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

• Recommendation: Arrive at the temple before 4:30 PM to allow ample time to pay respects to the Buddha image and enjoy the view before the temple doors close at 5:00 PM