The gong village of Phibun Mangsahan, near the confluence of the Mekong and Mun Rivers at  Khong Chiam, is famous for its hand forged bronze gongs used in temples and Asian music ensembles.   This is a local cottage industry -  and one of the remaining few.  Visitors can view the artisans making these prized gongs - the process involves hammering metal disks and tempering them in fire. The gongs range from the simple to the detailed and decorated, and are available for purchase.