A superbly restored ancient site in Buri Ram

Posted by paul on September 8th, 2008 filed in Top attractions, Travel destinations

Within less than 75 miles from Nakhon Rachasima and about 255 miles from Bangkok, Buri Ram offers a voyage back into time to the ancient Khmer kingdom, making it a fascinating travel destination for anyone with a penchant for all things Khmer. The must-see attraction for most of the visitors is Prasat  Phanom Rung, also known as Big Mountain.

Phanom Rung is truly remote and can be reached within a half-day’s drive from the Thai capital, so a full weekend is required for this journey. It’s possible to arrive in Buri Ram by leaving Bangkok early in the morning and driving straight through, but more experienced weekenders prefer to include Buri Ram as part of a Buri-Sa Kaew or Nakhon Ratchasima itinerary.

 

This is a great idea because Buri Ram is only a 60-minute drive from these provinces and there will be plenty of time to discover other Khmer monuments if one prefers. Those coming by road from Korat usually stop for a meal at Lam Takhong Dam in Pak Chong before continuing the voyage along Road 24. Others follow the more scenic route across Wang Nam Kheow with its many vineyards and fine coffee shops on Road 348. Guide to Buri Ram

From Sa Kaew, Buri Ram can best be reached via Road 348 which runs past national parks and another must-see destination, Prasat Sadokkokthom near the Cambodian border.

Prasat Phanom Rung is by far the largest and most gorgeous monument in Buri Ram. Positioned about 25 miles from the gateway district of Nang Rong, this spectacular monument stands atop an extinct volcano overlooking Chaloem Phra Kiat’s rural landscapes, which are dotted with Phanom Rung’s satellite temples such as Prasat Khao Prai Bak, Prasat Baan Bu and Prasat Muang Tam. Given the influx of visiting tourists during the weekends, it’s recommended to spare two or three hours to take in the temple.

Buri Ram can be reached via Sa Kaeo and Nakhon Ratchasima. From Bangkok, take Highway 2 towards Pak Chong’s Lam Takhong Dam, then turn right onto Road 24 leading to Chok Chai and then Nang Rong. Follow Road 2117 and 2221 to get to Prasat Phanom Rung.

From Sa Kaew, follow Road 348 northwards to Nang Rong from Bangkok, it’s possible to get to Nang Rong by way of Wang Nam Kheow by taking Road 304 and then connecting with Road 24 to Nang Rong.