King of the Turtles

Phaya Tao Ngoi, Sakon Nakhon Province It is a large turtle statue located in a public park along the Nam Phung River in Tao Ngoi District. It is 4.59 meters wide, 7.39 meters long, and 5.09 meters high. The upper shell is decorated with patterns of monks. Inside the statue of Phaya Tao Ngoi, sacred objects are enshrined. Inside the pond is decorated with Naga statues. For this reason, the statue of Phaya Tao Ngoi is a symbol of Tao Ngoi District and is a sacred object that is highly revered by the villagers. It is believed that paying homage will bring good fortune and long life. Tao Ngoi means a turtle that lives on high ground or on a bank or rock. According to the story that has been passed down, about 400 years ago, Thailand went to war with Laos. The Lao were defeated and were rounded up and brought to Thailand. When they arrived at the Nam Phung River, a large river with a large number of turtles, they saw that this area should have abundant crops, making it suitable for living. Therefore, they settled in this area. 📍 Tambon Tao Ngoi, Amphoe Tao Ngoi, Sakon Nakhon Province #WinterTravel #PhayaTaoNgoi #SakonNakhon