In 2017 we were traveling in the mountains of Phu Kon along the Thai-Lao border in the north-west of Udon Thani province. And that is where you will find Phu Phrabat Historical Park. The distinguishing feature of this park is its unusual rock formations around at which religious shrines have been constructed. Some formations also feature alleged prehistoric rock paintings. The unusual rock formations in the park include spires, massive boulders and balanced rocks and form the backdrop for the prehistoric art and religious shrines created there. The geological origins of these rocks are thought to be from under-sea erosion that occurred fifteen million years ago. Prehistoric art paintings on the rocks can best be seen where some rocks have formed a natural shelter. Others have faded considerably. The formations named Tham Wua and Tham Khon are particularly good examples; in the former oxen are depicted, the latter has human figures. The park's rock paintings are believed to date from 6,000 years ago. Phu Phrabat's rock formations are the setting for a local legend about a king, his daughter and her suitor. The park's most striking rock formation, Hor Nang Usa, is where the overprotective king forced his beautiful daughter to live. Despite her confinement, she was able to get a message out to her suitor prince and the two were married in defiance of her father. Hor Nang Usa is one of a number of the rock formations where a shrine has been constructed. The park's most significant shrine is Wat Phra Putthabaht Bua Bok, where a chedi covers a chamber housing a sandstone Buddha footprint.
Phu Phrabat Historical Park is located near Baan Phue, about 66 km north-west of Udon Thani. It is located on a sandstone ridge at about 320 meter above sea level. It is totally off the beaten track and I suggest getting there with your own transport. Also best to visit in the early morning so it is not too hot to walk around. Be prepared to do some walking. Entrance fee for Thai people is 40 baht and foreigners are privileged to pay 100 baht. Near the entrance is a small kind of museum. If you like some help with organizing your holiday along some of the most beautiful temples or just anywhere in Thailand send me an email at
The Little Elephant Traveling in Thailand.
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| Prehistorical rock temple in Northeast Thailand |
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| Walking at Phu Phrabat Historical Park in Northeast Thailand |
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| Rock temple in Thailand |
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| Rock paintings in Northeast Thailand |
