About Sakon Nakhon
Sakon Nakhon is a city in northern Isaan, on the large lake Nong Han of about 32 km². In the centre stands Phra That Choeng Chum, a temple built over the footprints of four Buddhas and visited daily by worshippers. The lake is a calm place to walk and eat, and you can take a small boat to the island of Don Sawan. Close to town lies Phu Phan National Park, with limestone mountains, forest and savannahs. The region is known for indigo-dyed fabrics and for the Wax Castle Festival in October, when large wax sculptures are paraded through town. Sakon Nakhon is most pleasant for travellers who want authentic Isaan, and fits well on a route via Udon Thani and Nakhon Phanom.
Best time to visit (indicative)
Best from November to February: cool and dry. March to May is very hot; June to October is the rainy season, with green rice fields. From February to April there can be haze from burning fields. Weather varies from year to year; this is a guideline based on the climate.
Getting there
From Bangkok by flight (about 1.25 hours) or bus (about 9 to 10 hours); from Udon Thani about 2 hours. Distances and travel times are rounded estimates.
Things to do in Sakon Nakhon
- Phra That Choeng Chum A temple built over the footprints of four Buddhas.
- Nong Han lake A large lake of about 32 km² with walkways and small islands.
- Phu Phan National Park A park with limestone mountains, forest and savannahs, about 25 km from town.
- Wax Castle Festival In October giant wax sculptures are paraded through town.
Sakon Nakhon on the map
Pinch to zoom; tap a point for more info.
