In 2006 we made a trip in the Isaan and did visit the
Prasat Hin Phanom Rung, a 10th - 13th century Khmer temple build during The Great Khmer Kingdom that stretched over a big part of what we call now Thailand. It is build on top of an extinct volcano at a height of 450 meter above sea-level in the Buriram province. I have been here now about 7 times and I still find it one of the most impressive Khmer temples in Thailand. Standing up there you have a stunning view over the high plateau of Khorat. And then you trying to imagine how they did build this huge temple complex high on the mountain. And no the stones do not come from the mountain it is build on. Be aware that it is a big complex and that there are many (not such a good) stairs to walk. You can drive all the way up to the entrance where a big parking place is. And of course along the entrance are many souvenirs shops. And of course you have to pay an entrance fee. I am always very impressed by the details of the art and when walking here you see details everywhere. Inside the buildings have been many Buddha images but some of them are stolen and are now in museums and private houses all over the world and others are at museums in Bangkok.
Getting there
When it is said to be in Buriram it means it is Buriram province, because it is a 1 hour drive from Buriram town. Or about a 2 hour drive over route 24 from Khorat town. As far as I know there is no public transport going to the site. Be aware that you will have to pay entrance fee. For more postings about ancient ruins / temples see
Ancient-Temples.
