The route to Pha Ko begins at Wat Tham Luang Pu Sao. From there, a steep nature trail climbs uphill; the steepest sections, with gradients of 45 to 90 degrees, are equipped with stairs. Pha Ko is a natural viewpoint attraction in Ban Non Sa-at; Wat Tham Luang Pu Sao is also located there, in the Kham Bok Subdistrict of Khamcha-i District. Visitors who choose nature destinations not only for their viewpoints but also for the route leading to them will find a clear focus here: the trail itself is part of the experience.
Reservoir and Viewpoints
Another natural highlight is Huai Ta Pae Reservoir, part of a royal initiative. It is located in Ban Ta Pae, in the Ban Kho Subdistrict of Khamcha-i District. Several camping areas and viewpoints are located within the Forest Restoration and Research Center. Unlike the uphill trail at Pha Ko, camping areas and viewpoints are part of the visitor experience at the reservoir. If you are considering camping, confirm the current status of the sites and viewpoints before your trip.
Local History and Festival Culture
In Phu Si Than Wildlife Sanctuary, the headwaters above Kaeng Chang Niam Waterfall have been designated a sacred water source; this designation is connected to the 2024 royal water-drawing ceremony. For those interested in culture, this offers a specific perspective on the connection between the headwaters and the ceremony. Buddha figures and amulets found in Thung Na Pho, Ban Song, are kept in the old chapel at Wat Chula Wiwek Ban Song. A municipal description dated January 12, 2022, names the old chapel as the place where they are kept. If you are interested in the objects, check in advance whether and where they are currently held, as their storage location may change. In 2025, the annual “On Son Chon Phu Thai” festival was held in front of the Khamcha-i District Office; residents and tourists attended the opening and the festival. If visiting in another year, check the current dates.
Temples, Cave and Elevation
Wat Phra Buddha Foot Phu Thong is located on the summit of Phu Thong in Tum Wan village, in the Phon Ngam Subdistrict of Khamcha-i District. Access to the natural cave in Phu Noi Community Forest is steeply downhill; the cave can be visited on foot. Together, these sites offer different perspectives on the terrain and location: the uphill trail to Pha Ko, the steep downhill cave access, and the temple on the summit.
Mukdahan as the Wider Context
In the wider destination of Mukdahan, Ho Kaeo Mukdahan offers a perspective of its own. The concrete tower is 65.50 meters high; from there, views extend over Mukdahan city, the Mekong River and Savannakhet on the Lao side of the river. Exhibitions at the base showcase the ways of life of Mukdahan’s eight ethnic groups, the lives of people on both banks of the Mekong, and the history of Mukdahan city. Here, views and a cultural and historical exhibition come together in one structure, while Khamcha-i District offers its own nature trails, water sites and temple locations.
Discover more destinations: Nong Ian, Ban Kho, Mueang Mukdahan District.
For the wider travel overview: Mukdahan.
