Pha That Phon stupa. - Lao National Radio
VIENTIANE: Savannakhet authorities plan to declare the renowned Pha That Phon stupa in Xayphouthong district as a national heritage site at the end of this year.
The aim is to preserve this sacred site for future generations and make it more widely known among tourists.
Speaking to visiting Lao and Thai reporters, the Head of the provincial Information, Culture and Tourism Office, Lamkhoun Vorlavong, said the stupa is considered to be one of Savannakhet’s greatest tourist assets and attracts many Lao and foreign visitors.
“Provincial authorities are in the process of upgrading facilities at Pha That Phon stupa so that it can be classified as a national heritage site and we hope to announce its certification at the end of this year,” he said.
“It is an important and sacred temple and many people visit it, generating about 200 million kip per month.”
That Phon stupa was built between 557 and 700 and is held in high esteem by Buddhists. Worshippers believe that a visit to the stupa will bring them good fortune because of the powers attributed to this revered edifice.
Savannakhet hosts a special event to celebrate the stupa in February each year, when people from around Laos and neighbouring countries come to worship.
The festival not only serves to preserve Lao traditions, but also creates extra income for local people through the sale of goods.
That Phon stupa is located about 50km from Savannakhet provincial capital and is situated on Road No. 13 South, or can be reached by taking a shorter route of about 30km alongside the Mekong River.
Those coming from other countries can enter Laos at the Second Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge, the Savan-Lao Bao border crossing, or Savannakhet International Airport.
The province, located about 480km from Vientiane, is full of fascinating sights and stunning landscapes. Among these are Dong Ling (monkey forest), Tad Phalong and Salen waterfalls, and treks through protected areas with the chance to see some wildlife.
There are also the Xayyaphoum and Taleo temples as well as the Hotay Pidok manuscript repository, while several villages are home to members of the Phouthai ethnic group whose traditional lifestyle is of interest to visitors.
Popular annual events include the rocket and boat racing festivals. - Vientiane Times/ANN
