Bu Hom can be explored through local origin stories: they connect the origin of the place name with the story of three Lao Phuan siblings. Nearby, Wat Phra Phutthabat Phu Khwai Ngoen offers another cultural point of reference. This gives travelers two distinct themes to consider when choosing a destination—the stories of Ban Bu Hom and the traditions associated with a temple in Ban Pha Baen. Those who also choose destinations for their local histories can start with these specific stories.

Place Name and Origin Story

According to a local origin story, the history of Ban Bu Hom dates back about 400 years. The story says that three Lao Phuan siblings traveled on a raft from the mountains of Tibet, down the Mekong via Luang Prabang, to the mouth of Huai Nam Suai. The tradition names all three: Thao Bua Hom, Thao Bua Hong, and Thao Bua Hiao. The route gives the story a broad setting, leading from the mountains through a named stop and onto the river. Thus, the origin of Ban Bu Hom unfolds not as a single place name, but as a story of siblings, a shared journey, and a reunion later on. The estimate of about 400 years is part of this local tradition.

After hearing about Ho raids on villages, the siblings, according to the story, reunite at the home of Thao Bua Hom. This reunion brings the journey story back to a specific place: the home of the eldest brother. In a related local place-name story, Thao Bua Hom is regarded as the eldest brother and the village head at the time; the place is said to have been named after him, later changing to “Bu Hom.” The two traditions emphasize different aspects: one tells of the journey and reunion, while the other explains the place name through a person. Together, they offer both a shared origin story and an explanation for the name’s form.

Wat Phra Phutthabat Phu Khwai Ngoen Nearby

Another cultural point of reference lies near Bu Hom: Wat Phra Phutthabat Phu Khwai Ngoen is in Ban Pha Baen, in Bu Hom Subdistrict, on a hill 400 meters above sea level. This location and elevation give a specific sense of where the temple is. In the past, people believed that only those with special merit could reach it because of the difficult route. This is a different kind of tradition from the place-name story: the focus is on a former belief about reaching the temple. The themes can therefore be distinguished when choosing a cultural focus: the stories of Ban Bu Hom deal with siblings, a journey, and the formation of the place name; the temple tradition adds a historical belief about the route.

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For the broader travel overview: Loei.