Phanom Rung Historical Park (Prasat Hin Phanom Rung)

About this Place

Phanom Rung is Thailand's finest Khmer temple complex, comparable in artistry to Cambodia's Angkor temples but receiving a fraction of the visitors. Built between the 10th–13th centuries on the rim of an extinct volcano 400m above the surrounding plains, the complex served as a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva. The sacred processional way stretches 160 metres from the main stairs, flanked by 67 sandstone boundary posts and five bridges over symbolic nagas. The lintel carvings — particularly the Narai lintel depicting the Hindu god Vishnu reclining — are among the finest examples of Khmer decorative art in existence. Four times a year (around sunrise in April, May, September, and October), the rising sun aligns perfectly through all 15 doorways in succession — an astronomical achievement of the original architects. The volcanic hilltop setting gives sweeping views over the Khorat Plateau farmlands. Buriram city has grown as a tourist destination around Phanom Rung and the nearby Chang Arena football stadium. Arrive early to beat the heat and the school groups that visit mid-morning. A combined ticket with nearby Mueang Tam is available at the entrance gate.