ຂປລ
That Phon, a Buddhist stupa, and Heuan Hin, a historic stone house, together with their surrounding areas, were officially recognized as national cultural heritage sites during a ceremony held on January 29, 2026, at Ban Phone That, Xayphouthong District, Savannakhet Province.
The ceremony was attended by Mr. Bounchoum Ubonprasert, Secretary of the Savannakhet Provincial Party Executive Committee; Mr. Kongkaew Mivorachak, President of the Provincial People’s Assembly, Ms. Daovone Xaysulyeun, President of the Provincial Administrative Committee; along with business representatives and a large number of local residents.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Phomma Songvilay, President of the Xayphouthong District Administrative Committee, reported on the successful preparations that led to the national-level heritage recognition. He also officially opened the 2026 Phathat Phon Festival.
Mr. Phomma highlighted that Phathat Phon is an ancient and sacred religious monument that has long held deep spiritual significance for local communities. According to legend, the stupa was constructed in 118 BE using laterite stone in the shape of a lotus bud and is believed to be more than 2,500 years old.
Heuan Hin, or the Stone House, is believed to be one of 121 rest houses built during the reign of King Jayavarman VII between 1181 and 1218, along ancient roads that once connected different parts of the Khmer Empire. The site shares architectural characteristics with the Vat Phou temple complex in Champassak Province and the Phimai temple in Thailand.
The annual festival reflects the people’s faith and devotion, contributes to the preservation of cultural traditions, and promotes sustainable cultural tourism.
The celebration featured cultural and literary performances by students, traditional dances by the Provincial Ethnic Culture Club, and exhibitions of local and ODOP products from Xayphouthong and neighboring districts, with a total of 175 booths. The event was further enlivened by traditional wax castle processions and colorful fireworks displays.
KPL
