Tucked away in the north western corner of Udon Thani, sandwiched between Loei and Nong Khai is Wat Pa Phu Kon, also known as the blue temple of Udon Thani.

Located on top of a mountain, it is a fairly new temple, and an absolutely magnificent place to visit.

Cars are left at the base of the mountain and all transport up to the top is by songthaew over winding roads. Our driver felt it best to approach these tight twists at light speed, so not a comfortable ride. (The driver got scolded by a couple of the older women in the back, so he was humbled at the end).

Once at the top you are presented with a series of steps leading to the temple site. As you climb the stairs, the blue roofed temple buildings reveal themselves. It’s an amazing sight.

Obviously the first job was to start taking some pictures. I composed a shot of the Viharn when a boy walked into shot. His mother chided him saying I was taking a photo, but he thought I was taking a photo of him, so he gave his best pose before being dragged away by his mother.

There are several buildings on the site, but the biggest building is the Viharn and this is the one to see. Here you will find the reclining buddha made from Italian marble. It’s one of the most beautiful Buddha’s in Thailand. There was a very peaceful atmosphere at Wat Pa Phu Kon, but the feeling inside the Viharn was very special. It was like stepping out of the histle and bustle and craziness of the world, into a world of tranquility.

I’m not sure how busy the temple gets during the high season, but on the day we visited it was fairly quiet, which just added to what were feeling up there in the mountains.

There is a shop selling food and drink as well as souvenirs, and even buying a commemorative mug is a peaceful experience.

It’s out of the way for sure, but if you are ever up in that corner of Isaan, you won’t be dissapointed.