Wat Tham Kham

Wat Tham Kham is a temple on Phu Kham Mountain featuring a large pagoda that rises above the landscape with the Phu Phan mountain range behind it. The site spreads across multiple levels connected by stairs and includes several structures for worship and meditation.

The temple originated in 1953 when a monk called Ajarn Fan discovered a cave containing an ancient Buddha statue that locals had used for ritual practices. This discovery led to the establishment of an organized religious community at the site.

The central pagoda holds a bronze statue of Ajarn Thate Desaransi, a revered monk of the Thai Forest Tradition, along with his remains and personal belongings. Visitors can observe how these objects are arranged and honored within the temple space.

The location requires climbing steep stairs to reach different levels. The drive from Sakon Nakhon takes about 40 minutes on countryside roads, so wear sturdy shoes and allow enough time for the visit.

According to local tradition, a tiger living in the cave voluntarily left when Ajarn Fan first arrived at the site. The community preserves this account as part of the temple's spiritual character.