Stupa in the Middle of the Mekong River, Wat Don Sawan, Ban Ton Phueng, Laos

Stupa in the Middle of the Mekong River at Wat Don Sawan, Ban Ton Phueng, Laos

When it comes to hidden travel spots that mr.hotsia has personally experienced in Bokeo Province, Laos, one must mentionWat Don Sawanat Ban Ton Phueng. This place is not just an ordinary sacred site but holds an exciting story about an ancient stupa discovered in the middle of the Mekong River, believed to be over a thousand years old.

Back in 2010, when the Mekong River's water level dropped, exposing sandbanks across the river, local Lao villagers went out to play and gather items by the river as usual. Unexpectedly, they found the remains of an ancient stupa emerging from the sandy riverbed. This was no ordinary stupa but one over 1,000 years old. Excavation was carefully done using a backhoe to lift the stupa. Inside, ancient Buddha statues and well-preserved Takian wood were found.

All discovered items were gathered atWat Don Sawanlocated in Ban Don Sawan, Ton Phueng city, Bokeo Province. This village is about 5 kilometers from Ton Phueng town. Traveling here is not difficult. I, mr.hotsia, recommend renting a songthaew from Ton Phueng town to Wat Don Sawan for convenience and to truly experience local life.

Atmosphere and feelings from the actual site

When I arrived, Wat Don Sawan was undergoing development and renovation, with concrete being poured in front of the temple to accommodate tourists and locals who come to pay respects. The ancient stupa that was excavated is neatly displayed within the temple grounds, along with old Buddha statues and Takian wood over a hundred years old that still retain their natural beauty. There is also an ancient pond said by locals to be around 500 years old. I sat by it and felt the cool water, as if traveling back in time.

The feeling here is one of peace and deep history embedded in the land and Mekong waters. I, mr.hotsia, sensed that the locals still deeply respect and preserve this sacred site well, even though it does not yet attract many tourists like major destinations in Laos.

Lifestyle and travel in Ton Phueng town

Ban Ton Phueng is a small town located opposite Chiang Saen district, Chiang Rai province, just across the Mekong River. This town is ethnically and culturally diverse, home to Lao, Lue, Yuan, Tai Dam, Northern Thai, and over 10 other ethnic groups, creating an interesting cultural mosaic.Ton Phueng townis gradually developing, especially recently with Chinese investment in economic zones and casinos on nearby Don Sao island.

For traveling within Ton Phueng, I recommend waking early to visit the fresh market orHuay Sai morning marketbefore crossing over to Wat Don Sawan. The morning market offers a genuine glimpse of Lao village life, with fresh food ingredients and daily necessities being traded. The market is a hub of community news and stories you won’t find elsewhere.

Food in Ban Ton Phueng

Food in Ban Ton Phueng is another aspect I, mr.hotsia, really enjoy. Although good restaurants are somewhat rare, there are authentic Lao-style street food stalls I often visit. One is near Ban Ton Phueng high school, offering delicious dishes like larb, nam tok, and pho with balanced flavors at affordable prices. You can get a large plate of stir-fried basil with fried egg for only 60 baht, which is filling, tasty, and gives a true local atmosphere.

If you want a different vibe, try walking around the casino area where many Chinese restaurants are available, but prices are higher and mostly cater to Chinese tourists. Locals rarely go there. I think if you don’t gamble, one night in Ban Ton Phueng eating Lao food at street stalls and visiting Wat Don Sawan to pay respects to the ancient stupa in the morning is enough.Restaurants in Ban Ton PhuengI recommend some with photos and locations on the mr.hotsia website for easy following.

mr.hotsia’s travel plan in Ban Ton Phueng

I started my day by crossing from Chiang Khong to Huay Sai, Bokeo Province, then took a songthaew to Huay Sai morning market. I captured the atmosphere and sampled fresh goods locals were trading. Then I went to Ban Ton Phueng to visit Wat Don Sawan to pay respects to the ancient stupa, see old Buddha statues, and the amazing ancient pond. Afterwards, I returned to Chiang Saen just as the border reopened. This short trip was full of stories and great memories that I encourage friends to experience.

If you want to prepare for easier travel, I recommend reading aboutHuay Sai Bus Stationwhich contains detailed information on buses and travel that will make your trip smoother.

Summary

The ancient stupa from the middle of the Mekong River at Wat Don Sawan, Ban Ton Phueng, is one of Laos’ hidden gems that impressed me, mr.hotsia, greatly. I witnessed history through unexpectedly discovered ancient structures, experienced the diverse cultural life of a small Lao town, and tasted delicious local food at affordable prices.

If you visit Chiang Khong or Bokeo Province, try stopping by Ban Ton Phueng and Wat Don Sawan. I guarantee you will have a unique and fresh experience.

— mr.hotsia, April 2013