Phu Manorom

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About Phu Manorom

Over the past five years, the grounds of this location have seen significant improvements. The new naga, a large serpent-like creature, is a sight to behold, although reaching it can be a bit of a challenge due to the tricky footing. The Buddha statue, while still under construction, is another impressive feature of the park. The park itself is a great spot for taking in the views and capturing some memorable photographs. Visitors can arrive early and drive their car up to the park to enjoy the scenery.

However, changes in the park's transportation system have made it less enjoyable for some. Previously, visitors could drive all the way up to the outlook level, but now they must park their cars and ride on the back of a small pickup truck. This can be uncomfortable and inconvenient for some. Additionally, the influx of tourists arriving by bus has made the park less peaceful than it once was.

The park now requires visitors to park at the base of the mountain and take a songtaow, a truck with sitting benches, to the top. This can be particularly challenging on weekends and holidays when finding a parking spot can be difficult. The food stalls that once populated the parking lot at the top of the mountain are now gone. Despite these changes, the mountaintop still offers stunning views of Mukdahan Town, the Mekong and Laos, and the surrounding areas of Mukdahan Province. It's a pleasant and relaxing place for families to spend an afternoon, take some photos, and enjoy the scenery.

From the highest points in Mukdahan, one can see the large white Buddha on the mountaintop just outside the city. The views over the Mekong River and the twin cities are worth the visit alone. The Big White Buddha and the super long dragon are fascinating sights, with the dragon's tail being a particularly creative construction. However, the site is popular with school groups, so visitors should expect to see many children around. The site is a bit outside the city, so visitors will need a car or tuk-tuk to get there. The site also features a mix of genuine Buddhist pieces and kitschy sculptures, like wooden logs made from concrete, giving it the feel of a cross between a theme park and a genuine Buddhist site. There's also a 3D photo center that children are sure to love.

The temple features a large naga sculpture and an unfinished Buddha statue on top of a hill. Despite the statue's incomplete state, the view over the Mekong is beautiful.

Visitors can rent a motorcycle to get up the hill and see the magnificent Buddha. The site also features other attractions, like 3D illusionary artwork that many visitors enjoy photographing. Walking up through the gardens, visitors can smell the frangipani and enjoy the water features. The monument, although incomplete, is an incredible sight. Visitors are even allowed to climb up inside it.

The site is a must-visit for anyone in the area. Many people visit the site, and there's a shuttle bus available to take visitors up the hill. Those with their own cars can drive up. The site features several spots with 3D artwork where visitors can take photos. For those who are up for it, there's the option to hike up to the Buddha, although it can be quite hot. From the site, visitors can see all of Mukdahan and the Mekong River. It's a beautiful spot for photography, especially on sunny days.