Archeological findings excavated from Phra That Nadune, or the Isan Phutthamonthon, indicated the area was once an ancient, prosperous town called ‘Nakhon Champa Sri’. The artifacts discovered here are now displayed at the Khon Kaen National Museum. More importantly, a miniature chedi containing the Buddha image of Phra Barom Saririkathat encased in a golden, silver and bronze box dating back to the 10-11th century of the Dvaravati era was found. The present Phra That Nadune was modeled after the miniature chedi.

The Isan Arts and Cultural Research Institute, located in Maha Sarakham University, regularly organizes shows and exhibitions on the Isan (NE region) culture and traditions, the evolution of silk weaving and local handicrafts, musical instruments, written literature, ancient inscriptions, and other related topics. Demonstrations of traditional classical dances and production of local handicrafts can also be seen at the Isan Arts and Cultural Center located in Maha Sarakham Ratchapat Institute.

The Dvaravati-style, red sandstone Phra Buddha Rup Yeun Mongkon and Phra Buddha Rup Ming Muang (Suwan Mali) Buddha images are considered the city’s principal Buddha images, both built the same time as the founding of the provincial city. According to legend, when the town of ‘Kantarawichai’ encountered a drought, the men created Ming Muang Buddha image and the females created the Yeun Mongkon image. Finishing at the same time, the townspeople held a great celebration. Since then, rain has fallen regularly during the proper season, transforming this arid land into a fertile one. Both images are located at Wat Suwannaward, 14 km from the provincial city.

The Wat Mahachai Museum houses a collection of artifacts discovered in Isan, a collection of Isan written literatures and numerous ancient Buddhist scriptures.

Situated on the bank of the Chi River, the Kosamphi Park resembles a forested garden with a variety of plants and trees creating a dense canopy, inhabited by plenty of birds and harmless monkeys. A beautiful natural brook flows by, creating a pleasant, scenic environment.

The Chi Loung Park is an island created by the changing currents of the Chi River. The park was cut off from the mainland when the river’s strong currents washed away the connecting piece of land, creating a new water route. A road encircles the island, which is teeming with large rubber trees.

Located 3 km from town, the Kaeng Loeng Chan is a large water reservoir and the site of the Freshwater Fishery Breeding Station. Its shoreline is a popular relaxing place for locals, particularly in the evenings.

Heading towards Roi Et, you’ll pass the Pottery Village (Mooban Pan Mor) where locals sustain an income by making pottery the traditional way. Other Isan people use the products for containing water, curry and other uses.

The 8-m tall Ku Mahathat (Prang Ku Ban Kawao) is an ancient Khmer stone sanctuary that dates back to the 14th century. The shrine houses 2 earthenware Buddha images. Interesting, the only entrance into the main prang (tower) faces east, while the other 3 false doors faces the other directions.

The historical Ku Santarat is a Khmer stone sanctuary that was created in the Bayana style of art approximately during 1157-1207, during the reign of King Chaiya Woraman VII, the last emperor of the Khmer Empire. Excavations made in 1971 unearthed many religious objects.

more>>>