Phra That Si Song Rak

Phra That Si Song Rak is a Buddhist stupa on the bank of the Man River in Loei Province near Dan Sai. The structure rises to 20 m in height, with a base measuring 9 m in diameter, and its white walls stand out against the river and surrounding greenery.

King Setthathirath of Lan Xang and King Maha Chakkraphat of Ayutthaya erected the structure in 1560 to seal a mutual alliance against Burmese attacks. A stone inscription at the site records the pledge of both kingdoms to preserve peace and avoid future border disputes.

The name translates directly as Holy Relic of Two Beloved Kingdoms, reflecting the bond between the rulers who commissioned the structure. Today, people from Thailand and Laos come to pray and honor the tie between both nations.

Access is via a short path from the riverbank, and the grounds are open during daylight hours without charge. Guided tours can be arranged on site to explain the architecture and the importance of the location for the region.

Inside stands a Buddha figure that merges Tibetan elements with a stone-carved nagaprok crown and a body made of bronze. This blend of styles is rarely seen in the region and draws the attention of art historians.