Phu Tham Phra

Located east of Ban Kut Hae or Kut Hae, Kud Chieng Mee Subdistrict, 12 kilometers from Loei Province's Loei District, along Highway No. 212, and 85 kilometers from the provincial capital. It is called "Phu Tham Phra" because there are many Buddha images in the cave, all of which are sacred ancient Buddha images. On this hill, there is a shady atmosphere with dense forests. Phu Tham Phra is a large cave, about 3 wa wide and 8 wa long, located on the southern cliff face. There is an entrance through a rock crevice, which stands towering around like a tunnel. From the cave entrance, heading north, one can walk through comfortably. Tham Phra has a two-tiered natural structure, which is the place where Buddha images are enshrined, arranged in rows. There are also reclining Buddha images and two statues of Buddha Kassapa, built during the era of Ajarn Dee Channo, beautifully situated in this cave. Phu Tham Phra is a small mountainous area, about 200 rai, with a relatively abundant mixed deciduous forest, providing shade and a cool, comfortable atmosphere. It is the source of many streams. The stone pillars resemble those at Phu Pha Thoep tourist attraction, and there is a viewpoint which is a beautiful natural spot. Near the entrance, there is a brick archway called "Phu Ngoh", which the locals call "Pratu Khong", located north of Phu Tham Phra, about 1 kilometer away. Currently, only ruins remain. The sacredness of Phu Tham Phra, passed down through generations, states that if villagers go out to gather forest products, they must come to this cave to pay respects for good fortune in their livelihood and to be safe from all dangers. Nearby tourist attractions include Tham Phra, Tham Kliang, Tham Phrom But, Tham Keng, Tham Kia (Bat Cave), Lan Ngu Suang, Ang Ruea Cliff, and the Chedi of Ajarn Dee Channo.