Nakhon Ratchasima, generally known as "Khorat", is
Thailand’s largest province situated on sprawling northeast
plateau. Located approximately 260 kilometers northeast of
Bangkok, the city itself serves as the gateway to the lower
I-San region.
Covering an area of 25,494 square kilometers that is mainly
plateaus and mountainous terrain, Khorat has fascinating
traditions, charming hospitality, splendid natural scenery
and awesome historical sites.
Some of the
main attractions in Khorat are Khmer ruins. Scattered around
the province, these products of ancient wisdom shines
through time. One of Thailand’s finest Khmer ruins can be
seen here next to Mon and Lao sites. In addition, Khorat has
an abundance of natural attractions in its forests, hills,
wildlife and waterfalls that are easily accessible in
locations such as Khao Yai National Park.
Apart from the famous statue of Khun Ying Mo, Khorat is most
well known for silk weaving (in Pak Thong Chai) and a
variety of top-notch quality handicrafts such as clay
pottery products of Dan Kwian.
Geographically, Nakhon Ratchasima borders on Chiyaphum and
Khon Kaen Provinces in the north, Buriram Province in the
east, Chiyaphum and Saraburi Provinces in the west and
Nakhon Nayok and Prachin Buri Provinces in the south.
Khorat is also I-San’s largest province. Inhabitants of the
province are mainly engaged in agricultural activities that
include farming of rice and other crops such as sugar cane,
tapioca, corn, jute, peanuts, sesame and fruits. There are
more than 100 savings and agricultural cooperatives in the
province, 35 irrigation projects and 7,122 industrial
factories. Most of the factories are rice mills, tapioca
product manufacturers, and industrial factories.
Khorat's
most popular annual event is the Thao Suranari Festival, a
celebration of Thao Suranari's victory over the Lao. It's
held from late March to early April and features parades.
Looking
back…
Khorat used
to be the site of several ancient prehistoric communities.
Little is known about the early history of Khorat, except
that it used to be part of a kingdom called Sri Janas (Si
Janat) – an empire that extended its power to the entire
Khorat Plateau.
Initially
the predominant cultural influence in the city was that of
the Dvaravati culture, however, it was later replaced by the
Khmer culture. The prehistoric site of Ban Prasat is
evidence of this occurrence while traces of both the
Dvaravati and Khmer cultures are scattered throughout the
province, particularly at Amphoe Sung Noen and Amphoe
Phimai.
Once an
administrative and cultural center, Khorat’s role today
remains unchanged as it is currently the main
transportation, industrial and economic hub of the
Northeast
Chang Phueak Shrine
Located
north of the city’s moat, at the corner of Manat and
Phon Saen Roads is a shrine of historical importance.
The shrine contains a Takhian Hin tree stump, which was
where the people of Phu Khiao tied elephants for
inspection before presenting them to King Rama I.
(Ratanakosin Era)
Chumphon Gate
Situated
behind Thao Suranari Monument is the old city gate that
can be dated back to the 17th century. During the reign
of King Narai the construction of a stronger city wall
was commanded. A wooden watchtower with a tiled roof and
decorated in the Thai-style was constructed on top of
the Gate, which was constructed of stone and brick and
covered with plaster. This Gate is the only gate of the
four original gates that is open to the public, as the
other three are being renovated.
City Pillar
Located
at the corner of Chumpon Road and Prachak Road, near
Thao Suranari Monument, is the City Pillar. A
Chinese-style shrine that houses the City Pillar was
established in the reign of King Narai the Great. The
inner eastern wall is covered with terra-cotta tiles
with raised designs depicting Thao Suranari in battle
and scenes of ancient daily life in Khorat.
Maha Wirawong National Museum
Opposite
the City Hall is Wat Sutthachinda, a compound where Maha
Wirawong National Museum is located. Featuring a
collection of Khmer and Ayutthaya art objects including
woodcarvings, ceramics and sandstone images, the museum
is open from Wednesday to Sunday, between 9.00 a.m. and
4.00 p.m. The admission fee is 10 bahts/person. For more
information, call 044 242958.
Monument of Thao Suranari
Commonly
dubbed as Khun Ying Mo or Ya Mo, Thao Suranari was a
courageous Thai woman, a wife of the Deputy Governor of
Khorat during the reign of King Rama III (1824 – 1851).
She led the residents of Khorat in a battle against the
Laotian army headed by Prince Anuwong of Vientiane. This
much worshipped shrine was built in 1934 to honor her
heroic deeds that saved the people from being captured.
There is an annual celebration held from 23 March to 3
April to pay homage to the shrine which is located at
the Chumphon Gate on the west side of the city.
Offerings to Thao Suranari range from a miniature model
of a bus to colorful clothes. It is believed that
through the offerings, Thao Suranar’s spirit will
protect the petitioner from danger and the bad spirits.
Interesting events:
Khorat songs (phleng Khorat) is sung in the evenings on
a stage near the shrine. They are traditional folk songs
worth listening.
Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo
Covering
an area of 545 rai (218 acres), the zoo is one of the
most modern in Asia. The enclosures are large and
landscaped by section to match the habitat of each
animal most of which have come from Africa. The most
popular animals are penguins, seals, African elephants,
rhinoceros, cheetahs, lions, zebras, and giraffes. There
is also a reptile building and a hornbill garden. In
addition to being an ideal place to study biology, the
zoo is a great place for relaxation as the grounds are
decorated with lovely flowers. Other than the shuttle
services that are provided to transport visitors around
the zoo, there are bicycles available for rent. The zoo
is open daily between 8.30 a.m. and 4.30 p.m. The fee is
10 bahts for children, 30 bahts for adults, and 30 bahts
for four-wheel vehicles. For information, call 0 4435
7355, 0 4421 6251-3 or visit
www.zoothailand.org.
The Zoo
is located approximately 18 kilometers south of the city
on Highway No. 304 (Nakhon Ratchasima-Pak Thong Chai),
however, it is also accessible via Highway No. 2310
(approximately 1 kilometer drive). Visitors traveling by
bus from the city can take air-conditioned bus No. 1415.
Petrified Wood Park
This
Petrified Wood Park located in Tambon Suranari has a
collection of over 10,000 petrified wood pieces. These
wood pieces were unearthed from just beneath the surface
to a depth of 8 meters.
The wood
is of various sizes ranging from pebbles to rocks with a
diameter of over 50 centimeters, while some pieces are
more than 1 meter long. The petrified wood pieces appear
in a range of colors and have been aged at between 1 and
70 million years. Provincial authorities plan to turn
this area into a petrified wood park and the first
museum of its kind in Asia in order to conserve these
prehistoric treasures for future generations to study.
To reach
the Park, take Highway No. 304 (Nakhon Ratchasima-Pak
Thong Chai) for 19 kilometers, turn right into Suranari
University of Technology (second gate) and drive for 3
kilometers, turn left onto the Mitraparp-Nong Pling city
bypass and drive for 2 kilometers to Wat Krok Duean Ha.
Prasat Phanom Wan
An
interesting Khmer sanctuary, Prasat Phanom Wan is
believed to have been built in the 10th century. During
the 13th and 14th centuries, a stone building was built
over it. From inscriptions found at the site, it is
known that the sanctuary was used in the Hindu religion
and later became a Buddhist site. Although most of it is
in ruins, the layout of the structure that is still
clearly visible includes a square main pagoda facing
east and a tiered pagoda in front, as well as a path
linking the two structures.
To the
southwest of the main pagoda is a building of red
sandstone called “Prang Noi.” Inside is a large
stone Buddha image. A roofed sandstone walkway and a
laterite wall surround the sanctuary. A Gopura (a
sanctuary doorway or porch) in the form of a tall tower
is situated in all 4 directions. Around 230 meters east
of the sanctuary are traces of a moat and an earth hill
that was the site of another Khmer building called “Noen
Oraphim.”
Other
Khmer ruins within Nakhon Ratchasima include Prasat Hin
Nang Ram, Prang Ban Ku and Prang Sida all of which are
similar to Phimai ruins but somewhat smaller.
This
sanctuary is located in Ban Makha, Tambon Pho, around 15
kilometers from the city on the Nakhon Ratchasima-Khon
Kaen Road. A sign on the right provides visitors with
additional directions.
Rajabhat Nakhon Ratchasima Arts and Culture Center
This
Center is the repository of all the information on
I-san’s history. Information on the region’s history,
culture and traditional way of life are displayed in
this wooden, two-storey house. For more information,
call 044 246341 ext. 1216. To get there from Rajabhat
Institute which is located on Suranari Road, turn left
at the sign and proceed to the center.
Tham Khao Chan Ngam
The cave
is located approximately 58 kilometers southwest of the
city, off of Highway No. 2. Consisting of a series of
rock formations, the cave is notable for its prehistoric
paintings with figures of people and animals drawn in
coarse red paint. Historians claim that an agrarian
community inhabited this area some 3,000 to 4,000 years
ago.
Wat Phra Narai
Located
on Prajak Road, the monastery houses a Khmer sandstone
statue of Vishnu, the Hindu god. This statue is highly
revered by local residents and is considered the
Province’s most sacred object.
Wat Sala Loi
Situated
500 meters east of the northeastern corner of the moat,
from Rop Mueang Road, the temple is famous for its “bot”
(preaching hall) which resembles a Chinese sailing junk.
That is why the monastery got its name Wat Sala Loi,
which means the temple of the floating pavilion. The bot
was awarded the best avant-grade religious building by
the Siam Society in 1973. Additional attractions are a
large white standing Buddha enshrined inside the temple
and a plaster sculpture of Thao Suranari, sitting in a
praying position in the middle of a pond in front of the
door.
Wat Thep Phithak Punnaram
Located
at Khao Si Siat Aa, in Tambon Klang Dong, the temple
houses a huge seated Buddha image that is 27 meters wide
and 45 meters high. The image is enshrined on a
mountaintop that can be reached via a 1,250 steps
representing the number of monks that gathered
spontaneously to hear the Lord Buddha’s first sermon.
(an occasion that is commemorated on Magha Puja Day)
Chok Chai
Dan Kwian
Situated
on Highway No. 24, about 14 kilometers from the city of
Nakhon Ratchasima is a village noted for unique pottery
widely used for interior and outdoor decoration. The
uniqueness of Dan Kwian clay is its durability,
pliability and rusty color. When combined with
attractive designs and the proper heating process the
products are irresistible.
Prasat Phakho
This
ancient Khmer sanctuary and Hindu religious place
constructed of white sandstone originally had 3
buildings of which only 2 remain today. The site is
surrounded by a horseshoe-shaped moat and has an
entrance is to the east. A lintel dated from around the
11th century influenced by the Baphuon culture of
ancient Khmer was found here. This lintel is currently
housed in the Phimai National Museum.
The
sanctuary is located at Tambon Krathok. From the city
take Highway No. 224 for 29 kilometers and continue on
to Highway No. 2021 for 3 kilometers. The site is on the
right.
Dan Khun Thot
Wat Ban Rai
This is
one of the most famous temples in the Province as it is
the residence of the revered monk Luang Pho Khun
Parisuttho. Many worshippers from all over the country
come pay their respect daily. The temple is located in
Tambon Kut Phiman, about 60 kilometers from the city. To
reach the monastery, take Mitraparp Highway to the
237-km marker, turn right past Kham Thale So and Nong
Suang to Dan Khun Thot. From Dan Khun Thot Hospital use
Highway No. 2217 and drive for 11 kilometers.
Non Sung
Ban Prasat
Archaeological Site
The site is Thailand’s second archaeological site
(the first was Ban Chiang) to be set up as an
outdoor museum. Findings indicate that the area
was once inhabited by a prehistory to early
history community. In addition, there is
evidence that a community of the Dvaravati and
Khmer periods thrived here some 1,500 to 3,000
years ago. There are 3 pits that have been
landscaped and are open to the public.
Discoveries of human skeletons and many pottery
pieces that were dug up from various levels are
evidence of human evolution, community beliefs
and culture.
To get there from the city, take Highway No. 2
(Nakhon Ratchasima-Khon Kaen) for 44 kilometers
and then turn right and proceed for 1 kilometer.
If going by bus from Bangkok or Nakhon
Ratchasima, take a bus bound for Khon Kaen, Udon
Thani, Nong Khai, or Kalasin. Get off at the
44-km marker and take a hired motorcycle into
the village.
Ban Prasat Home Stay
As there are numerous attractions in the area,
home stay is an alternative for visitors
interested in spending more than one day at Ban
Prasat. The program was first initiated in 1996
and currently serves as the prototype home stay
program for other villages across Thailand. The
best time for a visit is between October and
December when the climate is cool.
Ban Prasat villagers, like other villagers in the
region, are mostly farmers. Because rice farming
is done once a year, villagers use their free
time to supplement their income by creating
handicrafts such as weaving reed mats and hats,
producing shoes and bags, breeding silkworm, and
making Thai stringed musical instruments like So
U and So Duang.
Paddy fields surround the village and a river,
Than Prasat, which is considered a sacred river,
divides Ban Prasat Nua and Ban Prasat Tai. For
more information on home stay programs, contact
the village headman Mr. Thiam Laongklang, tel.
0-4436-7075 or Mr. Charan Chomklang, tel.
0-4436-7062.
Phra Non Sema
Located 4 kilometers from Amphoe None Sung, is a
Reclining Buddha image made of red sand stone
which is the most ancient and largest in
Thailand. The image is assumed to be built since
1,200 BE. Various archaeological evidence within
the area include bronze Buddha images,
terra-cotta Buddha printing images, glass beads
and inscription stones.
Chokchai
Farm is a fully integrated dairy farm perched on a vast
stretch of plains amidst a scenic surrounding. An
agro-tourism farm where visitors can learn about
milking, making of fresh milk ice cream, animal feed
plant, and several other activities. Superb tourist
facilities provided.
The farm
opens on Saturdays, Sundays and Official holidays.
Open on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for a group visit of at
least 30 persons.
There are 3-5
rounds of tours, each taking approximately 3 hours.
Khao Yai National Park
The
park, which covers an area of 2,168 square kilometers in
the Phanom Dong Rak mountain range, stretches over 4
provinces including Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Nayok,
Saraburi, and Prachin Buri. Khao Yai became Thailand’s
first national park on 18th September 1962 and is also
originally recognized as the National Park Heritage of
Asian Group Countries.
The park
is comprised of mixed forests and rainforests with some
wide plains and grasslands interspersed with verdant
forests. There are many valuable plants, including
commercial plants, scented plants and herbs. In
addition, there are several mountains with peaks ranging
from 800 to 3,000 meters above sea level making Khao Yai
a cool climate area, even in summer.
The most
popular time to visit Khao Yai is during the cool season
or from October to February. In the rainy season, the
area is refreshingly green with overflowing waterfalls,
sending echoes all around.
Popular
activities in the park include butterfly and bird
watching, animal watching and trekking. The Park has
numerous butterflies and birds as surveys indicate that
over 293 species of birds use Khao Yai as a feeding
ground while Khao Yai is the habitat of over 200
species. In addition, the park is home to an abundance
of wildlife. The most frequently spotted animal is the
deer that grazes on grass plains and sometimes come to
be fed around the park office. Other animals spotted
include elephants, sun bears, wild boars, monkeys,
tigers, gaurs, and mountain goats. To facilitate animal
watching the park built 2 wildlife watchtowers at Mo
Singto and Nong Phak Chi. Visitors are allowed up there
between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. In addition, those who want to
go on a night safari by car must contact the park office
before 6 p.m. Moreover, Khao Yai has over 20 trekking
trails for visitors to choose from, each different in
natural beauty and distance. While some trails like the
Kong Kaeo trail and the Kilometer 33 trail (Thanarat
Road-Nong Phak Chi) take 1-2 hours to complete, other
trails like the Nang Rong-Khao Yai trail, Samo Pun trail
or Kho Yo 4 Unit-Wang Heo waterfall trail require
overnight stays. Information and guides can be obtained
from the tourist service centre.
Places
of Interest in the Park:
Namtok Kong Kaeol
This is
a low waterfall, which is especially lovely in the rainy
season originates from Huay Lam Takhong that divides
Nakhon Nayok and Nakhon Ratchasima Provinces. The
waterfall can be reached by a walking distance of 100
meters from the tourist service center. Visitors can
enjoy swimming at the waterfall or taking short nature
trips on nearby nature trails.
Namtok Pha Kluai Mai
This is
a medium-sized waterfall in Huay Lam Takhong with two
separate bodies of water flowing down rock levels to
merge at the bottom. In the area visitors can find the
Red Dendrobium orchid that is the symbol of the
waterfall. The waterfall is about 7 kilometers from the
park office and can be reached by car and on foot. In
addition, there is a trail from the waterfall that leads
to Heo Suwat Waterfall.
Namtok Heo Suwat
This is
a famous waterfall that cascades from a 20-meters high
cliff. . The waterfall, which is located at the end of
Thanarat Road and is accessible by car, is only 100
meters by foot from the parking lot or a 3-kilometer
walk from Pha Kluai Mai Waterfall. Visitors can view the
falls from a distant viewpoint that offers a high-angle
view of the waterfall through the trees or from the
waterfall itself. However, please note that in the rainy
season the water flows rapidly and caution should be
taken.
Namtok Heo Narok
This is
the largest and highest waterfall in the park with 3
levels. The first level is about 60 meters high and
water from this level flows straight down to the second
and third levels, with a total drop of at least 150
meters. The water has considerable strength in the rainy
season and is quite dangerous, but refreshing, when it
comes splashing down on rocks at the bottom. The area
around the waterfall is the usual feeding grounds of
wild elephants. There have been occasional accidents
when elephants drop from the cliff and die. For a
beautiful view of the waterfall, visitors can walk 1
kilometer from the main road to a viewpoint. The
waterfall itself is located to the south of the Park
Office on the way to Prachin Buri.
There
are also other lesser waterfalls in the park like Namtok
Mai Plon, Namtok Heo Sai and Namtok Heo Prathul. For
more information, contact the Park’s tourist service
centre.
Traveling to the Park
Khao Yai
National Park is only about 205 kilometers from Bangkok.
There are 2 ways of getting there; from the 56 kilometer
marker of Mitraparp Highway, turn onto Thanarat Road and
proceed for approximately 23 kilometers or at Hin Kong
intersection, turn onto Highway No. 33 (Nakhon
Nayok-Prachin Buri) and proceed to the Noen Hom
intersection and take Highway No. 3077 to the park. The
second route is rather steep and is more suitable for
the return trip.
If
traveling by bus, get off at Amphoe Pak Chong and
continue on a mini-bus up to the gate of Khao Yai
National Park. The fare is 15 baht and services are
provided between 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. From there, visitors
should flag a passing car to the park office or rent a
car directly from Pak Chong. The park fee for an adult
foreigner is 200 bahts and a foreign child is 100 bahts.
The fee for each car is 50 bahts.
Facilities
There is
a campsite at Pha Kluai Mai that can accommodate up to
1,000 visitors. The fee is 10 bahts for children and 20
bahts for adults per night. There is a restaurant and
tents and sleeping bags for rent. Moreover, there are 2
more service areas at Kong Kaeo and Yaowachon that can
accommodate up to 250 tourists. The fee is 30 bahts
each, though sleeping gear is not provided. Visitors can
obtain permission from the park before 6 p.m. For more
information, call the National Parks Division, Royal
Forest Department, tel. 0-2579 -7223 and 0-2579-5734, or
contact the Park Office at P.O. Box 9, Amphoe Pak Chong,
Nakhon Ratchasima 30130.
Lam Takhong Dam
The Dam
is located 62 kilometers before reaching the town on
Highway No. 2. The construction had started in 1964 and
finished 4 years later. The lake - like reservoir can
contain up to 300 million cubic meters of water and
irrigates 238,000 rais of paddy field.
Lam Takhong Rest Area
This
rest area is also known as “Suan Na Chat”, is a
rest area for vehicle drivers to relax from driving. It
is on Highway No. 2 (Saraburi-Nakhon Ratchasima) between
the 193 and 194 kilometer markers on an area of 16.89
square kilometers. This place offers the most beautiful
view north of Lam Takhong reservoir. It has a complete
range of services and facilities and is an example of a
modern rest area. Moreover, it is called the gateway to
the Northeast.
The Information Center in the rest area provides tourist
information about the northeastern provinces,
accommodations, viewpoints, a garden, food and beverage
stores, a convenience store, restrooms, and public
telephones. In addition, there is also a sculpture of
General Chatchai Choonhavan, a former prime minister, in
a standing position with arms folded and leaning against
his favorite motorcycle. The sculpture measures 3.40
meters high and is made from green sandstone.
The main
activity for visitors at Lam Takhong is rafting on a
route that goes past homes, orchards and green trees.
The difficulty level is at 1-2, which is not too hard
for rafting novices. Moreover, the area is suitable for
a family outing. The best time to visit is between May
and September because there is lots of water that can
create some excitement that is not dangerous. During the
dry season there is too little water for rafting. Each
rafting trip takes about 2 hours and visitors can add to
their enjoyment by taking an elephant ride afterwards.
For more information on the elephant ride, contact Pang
Chang Khao Yai on Thanarat Road, Kilometer 19.5, tel. 0
4429 7183.
Formerly
called Thana Farm and belonging to Field Marshall Sarit
Thanarat, the Farm was later transferred to Kasetsart
University and became the Maize and Sorghum Research
Center. The main purpose of the Center is to carry out
research and publicize technology for the growing of
maize and sorghum as well as other field crops. The
Center also other provides support for research and
training at both domestic and international levels, in
addition, to producing seeds of maize, sorghum and other
field crops. Basic tourist facilities provided are a
touring route, toilets, field crop seeds for sale and
food stalls. Advance contact is recommended.
Pak Thong Chai
Lam Phra Phloeng
Dam
Locals
come to relax, eat, fish, and enjoy the scenery at this
Dam, which is under the jurisdiction of the Royal
Irrigation Department. In addition, visitors can rent a
long-tail boat to tour the reservoir, travel to Khlong
Ki Waterfall or Khun Chon Waterfall. Each round-trip
journey is about 3-4 hours there. For visitors
interested in staying overnight there are lodges for
rent at the Dam. The Dam can be reached by taking
Highway No.314 past the district for 4 kilometers then
turn right and drive for 28 kilometers. For more
information, contact the Lam Phra Phloeng Water Supply
and Maintenance Project at tel. 0-4437-3184 ext. 114.
For more information about boat trips, contact Lam Phra
Phloeng Dam Club at tel. 0-4437-3184 ext. 117.
Namtok Huay Yai
This
small waterfall, which flows past 2 large boulders, is a
tourist attraction under the care of Thap Lan National
Park. It should be noted that the waterfall only has
water only in the rainy season or between July and
September. To reach the waterfall, take Highway No. 304
to the market at the 79 kilometer marker and proceed for
6 kilometers. The entrance is a sloped walkway about 20
meters long.
Sakaerat Environmental Research Station
This is
a research center of plant species in the northeastern
jungles and is open to groups interested in organizing
eco-tours. The center has an area of about 78 square
kilometers (48,750 rai) that is comprised mainly of dry
jungles and hardwood forests. Many animals are found
here, including wild boars, pheasants and a variety of
birds. Visitors can see the surrounding vast green
jungle as well as Khao Phaeng Ma further from a tower
built by the station that overlooks the treetops. For a
closer look at nature, several nature study trails that
can take from 1.5 hours to 3 hours are available. In
addition, visitors interested in staying overnight can
rent one of the 3 houses available that can accommodate
20 people each. Moreover, visitors should note that the
climate is cool all year round. The Station is located
beside Highway No. 304 (Nakhon Ratchasima-Kabin Buri)
and is 57 kilometers from the city. For information,
call 0 4425 8642 or contact the Station Management
Department of the Science and Technology Research
Institute of Thailand, tel. 0-2579-1121-30, 0-2579-0160
ext. 4401 or fax 0-2561-4771.
Wat Na Phra That
This
temple has an old chapel with beautiful murals of the
Early Ratanakosin period. In addition, the door of the
“Ho Trai” or the scripture hall is also elaborately
carved. The temple is located four kilometers from the
Pak Thong Chai District Office.
Phimai
Phimai
Historical Park
Within the Park is the Phimai Sanctuary, one of the
grandest and most important Khmer historical sites
in Thailand.
The
word ‘Phimai’ appears in an inscription on a
stone slab at the front doorway of the building as
well as in many other structures. It is believed
that the word ‘Phimai’ referred to a religious
figure or site.
The Phimai Sanctuary is rectangular in shape and is
565 meters wide and 1,030 meters long. It consists
of ornately carved sandstone and laterite
structures. The most special characteristic of the
sanctuary is that it is the only one that faces
south while the others usually face east. This is
probably because it was built to face the route that
the Khmers traveled from the capital of the empire,
to the south of Phimai.
From
stone inscriptions and the architectural style, the
Phimai Sanctuary was most likely built at the end of the
11th century during the reign of King Suriyaworaman I.
The architectural style is that of the Baphuon style
that prospered at the time. However, some
characteristics are similar to that of Angkor Wat, which
became popular at a later period. Some additions were
made to the site in the early 18th Buddhist century
during the reign of King Chaiworaman VII when Phimai had
close relations with the Khmer Empire. The sanctuary was
always a religious site of the Mahayana sect of Buddhism
because King Suriyaworaman I and King Chaiworaman VII
were followers of the sect.
Important Structures in Phimai Sanctuary:
The Naga
Bridge is the first part you pass when visiting the
site. The bridge and lion figures stand in front of the
Gopura (porch) south of the main pagoda. The intention
may have been to build a link between earth and heaven
according to both Hindu and Buddhist beliefs concerning
the universe.
The
Gopura was adapted as the wall around the sanctuary and
the four entering porches. There is a large corridor
connecting the outer and inner areas of the main
sanctuary. Above each porch is a lintel of various
designs.
The Main Prang or pagoda is on an open area in a curved
walkway. It is the centre of the site and is made
entirely of white sandstone and is different from the
porches and walls that are made primarily of red
sandstone. This is because white sandstone is more
durable than red sandstone. The pagoda is 28 meters
high, has a square base, a portico and stairways and
doors in all 4 directions.
The
pagoda consists of a base, outer walls, columns, and
porches with beautiful designs. Of vital importance are
the lintels that mostly recount the tale of Ramayana
from Hinduism and tales of the Mahayana sect of
Buddhism. The lintels above the 4 doorways of the main
pagoda’s inner chamber, the most important room of the
pagoda, are all about Buddhism reflecting the Buddhist
influence that eventually surpassed that of Hinduism.
The carvings are of the Baphoun style (1007-1107) and
the Angkor Wat style (1107-1157) leading to the belief
that the main pagoda was built at the end of the 12th
century.
There
are other pagodas, which are Prang Brahmadat in front of
the main pagoda, Prang Hin Daeng and Ho Phram (Brahma
Hall) to the right.
The park
is open daily from 7.30 a.m. to 6 p.m. The admission is
40 baht. There are youth guides available to provide
visitors with information about the site for free.
Historical Sites Outside Phimai Sanctuary:
The
Phimai City Gate and City Walls were built during the
reign of King Chaiworaman VII. Of the 4 gates, the south
gate is the most important because the road from the
ancient Khmer capital to Phimai runs through it. The
sanctuary can be seen when looking straight through the
gate.
The Men
Brahmadat
is southeast of the walls and is made entirely of bricks.
Its present form is a huge and round earth hill that is
about 30 meters high. The site is believed to have been
the place where a king was cremated. However, the style
of construction suggests it was built in the late
Ayutthaya period.
Other
sites to the south are Tha Nang Sa Phom,
Kuti Rusi and Arokhayasan.
Phimai National Museum
The
museum houses collections of archaeological artifacts
especially those found in the lower part of the region
and has exhibits on the past cultural prosperity of the
Northeast. There are several sections as follows:
local
I-san culture
daily
utensils like mortars, cotton chests, carts and monk
items
the
history of Phimai
lintels
from sanctuaries in Nakhon Ratchasima and the Northeast
prehistoric artifacts such as ancient pottery, skeletons,
tools, and bronze and stone ornaments
early
history that includes Dvaravati-style temple boundary
markers and Khmer-style items like columns and parts of
buildings, as well as sculptures like Buddha images, god
figures and a figure of King Chaiworaman VII made of
sandstone found at Phrommathat Pagoda in Phimai
sanctuary.
The
second floor is devoted to the past cultural glory of
the Northeast, early Isan communities and Khmer cultural
influence.
The
Museum is located at the base of Tha Songkran Bridge
just before Phimai Sanctuary. From Nakhon Ratchasima,
take Highway No. 2 for 50 kilometers, then turn on
Highway No. 206 and proceed for 10 kilometers. If taking
a bus from Nakhon Ratchasima, visitors can take a bus
from Bus Terminal 2 in the city. The museum is open
daily from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. The entry fee is 30 baht. For
information, call 0-4447-1167.
Sai Ngam
This
recreational area that is literally translated as
"Beautiful Banyan Tree" is two kilometers from Phimai.
The area, comprised of over 15,000 square feet of shaded
space, has food stands where visitors can purchase
snacks and drinks.
Thung Samrit Memorial
This
wide field was a battleground between Khorat people and
Lao soldiers during the reign of King Rama III. A shrine
was constructed by villagers in 1988 to pay homage to
the fighters. The memorial is located at Mu 1, Ban
Samrit Tawan Ok, Tambon Samrit, 46 kilometers from the
city. Take Highway No. 2 (Nakhon Ratchasima-Khon Kaen)
to the 43-44 kilometer markers (opposite the entrance to
Ban Prasat), turn right and proceed for about 3
kilometers.
Prathai
Prasat Nang Ram
This
site, called Arokhayasan (a hospital) by the ancient
Khmers, was built in the 13th century during the reign
of King Chaiworaman VII and is comprised of 2 groups of
buildings situated close together. The more complete
pagodas face the east and are surrounded by a laterite
wall. To the northeast outside the wall is a pool and
another group of historical buildings where many
beautiful lintels are found.
The site
can be reached by taking Highway No. 2 for about 62
kilometers to Ban Wat intersection. From there turn
right onto Highway No. 207 and proceed for about 22
kilometers to Ban Ya Kha (or about 11 kilometers before
reaching Prathai town) and turning left and proceeding 4
kilometers to the sanctuary.
Buayai
Prang Sida
Prang Sida is similar to Prang Ku at
Tambon Don Tanin, but this pagoda is closed on all 4
sides. It was a Brahman religious site, dated from
around the 12th-13th Buddhist centuries, that was
constructed entirely of laterite in the ancient Khmer
style with sculpted plaster designs facing the east and
an outer wall surrounding the site. From the Khorat
city, take Highway No. 2 for about 84 kilometers to Sida
intersection and turn right onto Highway No. 202 (to
Amphoe Prathai) for about 1.5 kilometers, then take a
left and proceed for about 2 kilometers to the temple.
Prang Ku
Located in the school Wat Ban KU
Sub-district, Dontanin from the city along highway
number 2 (Nakhon Ratchasima-Khon Kaen) to about 74 kms.
Turn left at the guard van Highway Police Ban Non,
indeed, about 6 kilometers, turn right into the school
Wat Ban KU is Prang days for a small cubes base to start
with 3 layers overlap each other from base to the top of
the present condition, but to lie in ruins, left only
base remains high, not within the prang Buddha
terra-cotta which existed in the 4-5.
Sikhio
Lam Takhong Dam
This is
an earth-filled dam across the Lam Takhong River that
flows through a crevasse. Built in 1974, its primary
purpose was to divert water from above the dam for
irrigation. Visitors can walk on the dam to enjoy the
view of the reservoir, which has a mountain backdrop.
The dam is a suitable place for relaxation when it is
not hot. The dam, which is open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.,
is located at Tambon Lat Bua Khao, around 62 kilometers
from the city. Turn onto a road that branches off
Highway No. 2 (Nakhon Ratchasima-Saraburi) between the
196 and 197-kilometer markers and proceed for about 2
kilometers.
This
garden has over 300 kinds of tropical and temperate
flowering, decorative, fruit bearing as well as
perennial plants. After touring the garden visitors can
try the house specialty, ostrich steaks, at the
restaurant overlooking the reservoir of Lam Ta Khong
Dam. Basic tourist facilities provided. Please contact
the management in advance.
Soeng Sang
Hat Chom
Tawan
This is
a large beach by the lake, under the office of the 5th
Thap Lan National Park Management Area (Lam Plai Mat)
that is responsible for jungles in the park in Soeng
Sang, Khon Buri and Wang Nam Khiao Districts. A rest
area has been developed for the public around the
reservoir and plots of land have been designated for
locals to make a living and reduce the problem of
illegal logging. Tourists normally come to this beach to
swim, dine, camp and enjoy the scenery. Long-tail boats
can be hired to go on the reservoir. Trekking to various
spots like Wang Phi Sua (where a lot of butterflies can
be seen in the cool season), Phra cave, Communist cave
and the gigantic Takhian Thong tree that is believed to
be over a thousand years old are also popular
activities. For more information, call tel. 0-4444-8386.
Sung Noen
Muang Sema
Historical Site
The Sema
City plan, which is egg-shaped, covers an area that is 3
kilometers wide and 4 kilometers long. The city was
built around the 12th Buddhist century, flourished
during the Dvaravati period and grew until the 16th-17th
Buddhist centuries when it came under Khmer influence.
Visitors can still see evidence of city moats, earth
walls, laterite and sandstone ruins and numerous
artifacts. The most interesting ones are the reclining
sandstone Buddha image and an old religious relic that
is now in Wat Thammachak Semaram.
The site
is in Tambon Sema, about 37 kilometers from the city.
From Amphoe Sung Noen cross Lam Takhong River past Ban
Hin Tang to Sema, which is 4 kilometers away.
Kornburi
Prang KhonBuri
Located
in the school mad city Buri Nakhon Si Thammarat Weerasak
Kositpaisal school from use national road number the
city through Amphoe chok chai 244 road opposite the Thai
government ISA 2071. The 20 right turn into another 5
km. , as well as 55 kilometers from the city Km. Prang
Khon Buri in ancient monuments, in those days, for the
use of a disease of the Court consists of the President
of the stupa foursquare has filed the front porch in
front at an angle to the right hand, with a rectangular
building called บรรณาลัย glass walls surrounded by a
gate. At the entrance of the East outside the wall in
the corner left front there is a pond a rectangular pool
1 structures all except for a 3 layers pillars decorated
the door roof overhanging a sandstone parts are still
left the pattern is not the carved out there is no
pattern to see.