Phanom Rung Historical Park

📍 Location of Phanom Rung Historical Park 🚘 Directions to Phanom Rung Historical Park

About Phanom Rung Historical Park

Khao Phanom Rung National Park is a historical treasure trove, home to some of the most extensive Khmer ruins in the country. The park is a testament to a thousand years of history, with its beautiful setting and imposing staircase making it a must-visit destination. The park is smaller than Angkor Wat, but its excellent restoration and informative explanations make it well worth the trip.

Visitors to the park are often struck by the beauty of the nature surrounding the ruins. The park offers a unique experience, where one can ascend the high stairs, pass through the 13 doors at the top, and take in the breathtaking view below. The park's serene atmosphere is further enhanced by the lack of crowds, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the historical surroundings.

However, it's worth noting that the park's entrance fee for foreign visitors is significantly higher than for Thai locals. This discrepancy has been a point of contention for some, who feel that the price difference is unfair.

Despite this, the park remains a popular destination for families. Children are offered sarongs by the ticket seller, adding a touch of cultural authenticity to the experience. The park is quiet and peaceful, making it an ideal place for a family outing. However, visitors should be prepared for the many steps that lead up to the ruins.

Reaching the park can be a bit of a challenge, especially for those relying on public transport. The journey involves a bus ride to Nakhon Ratchasima's bus terminal 2, followed by a motorbike ride to the park. Despite the difficulty in reaching the park, many agree that the effort is well worth it for the chance to explore the beautifully restored temples.

The Phanom Rung Khmer Temple, located in the Buri Ram Province of Thailand, is another highlight of the park. Set atop an extinct volcano, this splendid example of Khmer architecture offers a cool, quiet, and majestic experience. The temple is well-preserved and maintained, allowing visitors to get a close look at an ancient cultural center. The temple's elevated position offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, making it a great spot for photography.

Phanom Rung is located a few kilometers from the border between Buriram Province and Cambodia. Built between the tenth and thirteenth centuries by Khmer kings, the temple was later taken over by the Thai group of kingdoms. The temple's beauty is enhanced by the local forest that surrounds it and the wide views across the Korat Plateau. The park has two main entrances, each offering a unique experience. The lower entrance features a line of shops, two small restaurants, and access to the ruins via the original ceremonial pathway. The upper entrance provides direct access to the ruins and has good wheelchair access from its car park.

Overall, Khao Phanom Rung National Park offers a remarkable and interesting experience for history and nature lovers alike. Despite the challenges in reaching the park and the discrepancy in entrance fees, the park's historical significance, beautiful setting, and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit destination.