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Pilgrimage to Sacred Places and Eco-Tourism
Many tourist attractions and sacred places in Amphoe Muang Surin
reflect its long history and its close relation with elephants.
Amphoe Muang is thus a good start for a visit to Surin, the land of
elephants and Khmer ruins.
1) Monument of Phraya Surin Phakdi Si Narong Changwang
(Chiang Pum)
Located on Surin’s inner wall in the past, the Monument was
constructed in 1984 in commemoration of Phraya Surin Phakdi, the
first Governor of Surin. The brass figurine, 2.2 meters high, holds
a hook in his right hand, reflecting his mastery on elephant at war,
and the historical link between Surin and elephants.
Near the monument is elephant shrine, which recounts the events
during the construction of Surin.
2) Surin City Pillar
Visitors should visit and pay respect to the City Pillar, locally
regarded as sacred, for their good fortune.
3) Wat Burapharam
This ancient temple was apparently constructed by Phraya Surin
Phakdi Si Narong Changwang
(Chiang Pum)
about 200 years ago in the Thonburi or early Rattanakosin
periods. Luang Pho Chi, the Buddha statue in the posture of subduing
mara, is enshrined in the wihan. This statue, probably completed
during mara, is enshrined in the wihan. This statue, probably
completed during the temple construction, is held most sacred by the
local.
Inside the temple is the museum of the late Phra Rat Wutthachan
(Luang Pu Dun Adulo),
a highly venerated monk in meditation. He was a disciple of the
renowned Phra A-chan Man Phurithatta, and once taught meditation to
Phra A-chan Fan Acharo. His statue, remains, photo, and personal
belongings are kept inside the museum.
4) Huai Sa-neng Reservoir
This reservoir is a popular recreational area for the people in
Surin and nearby provinces. Many come here to picnic, to admire the
sunset atmosphere, and to fishing.
Outdoor lovers can ride mountain bike around the reservoir, or rent
boats from local people to go fishing in the reservoir. The rental
charge is negotiable.
For bird watchers, south of the reservoir features a large lotus
pond where many water birds inhabit, such as the jacana, moorhen,
and various kinds of teal. Some birds, such as wagtail, pipit, and
kingfisher, migrate to this place seasonally.
Contact for details about the accommodation around Huai Sa-neng
Reservoir at Surin Irrigation Project, Huai Sa-neng Reservoir,
Surin, tel.
(044)
511966.
5) Phanom Sawai National Forest
Phanom means mountain and Sawai means mango. Phanom Sawai, the
closest forest to the province, is a small mountain covered with
Mixed deciduous forest. Phanom Sawai was regarded as a pilgrimage
site. On the 1st day of the waxing moon in April many
people walk to the temple on the mountaintop to listen to the
mountaintop to listen to the Buddhist doctrine and toa make merit.
In front of the Forest Headquarters, there are a number of
reservoirs and short trekking routes.
The first peak at the altitude of 210 meters, called Khao Chai or
Phanom Pro, houses Wat Phanom Sawai. Phra Buddha Surinthara
Mongkhon, the huge brick-and concrete Buddha statue in the posture
of giving blessing, can be seen from far away. The second peak at
the altitude of 228 meters is called Khao Ying or Phanom Sarai.
On the third peak, called Khao Khok or Phanom Krol, the Buddhist
Society of Surin constructed a pavilion with eight porticos on the
occasion of Rattanakosin Bicentennial Celebration. The replica of
Buddha’s Footprint was moved from Khao Chai to be enshrined in this
pavilion. Also located on this peak is the pagoda in memory of Phra
Rat Wutthachan
(Luang Pu Dun Adulo),
in which his statue is enshrined.
6) Nong Khu National Forest
The Royal Forestry Department, with the cooperation of the Danish
Government, has explored and designated this 625-rai area to be a
pine conservation area. To be a pine conservation area. Despite its
inclination for mountainous area, pine here grows on the plain in
Mixed deciduous forest, mixing with other trees such as timber
trees, redwood and crape myrtle. The Department has designated
trekking routes, prepared recreational areas, and grown some more
trees.
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