Phimai

พิมาย
Northeastern Thailand
270 km from Bangkok
Province of Nakhon Ratchasima
Population : 8 000
Thai prononciation : Pee Maï

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General Information about Phimai

Small charming town, Phimai is famous for its Khmer temple, the Prasat Phimai, one of the finest of its kind in Thailand. In the center of the city, it is the only monument in the Phimai Historical Park. Its architecture reminds of Angkor Wat built a century later and partly inspired by Phimai temple. Another curiosity in the city is the Sai Ngam or Banyan Tree, a park on a small island entirely composed of roots and branches of one singla banyan tree. Visitors can stroll in the shade, in the vaults of this small extraordinary forest. An enchanting setting with a small pond in which clouds reflect.
The city, ancient walled city, has still a few shares of its walls and four partly restored doors. The most complete one is Pratu Chai just behind the bus terminal. Meru Boramathat, a chedi on a small hill one the main place, also reflects Phimai's past. And for those who want to knowmore about this past, the Phimai National Museum is waiting. At night, do not miss the small night market near the clock Tower, one of our favorite night markets in Thailand. A must to discover the popular Thai food and the special atmosphere of these markets. Compose your dinner yourself by strolling between the stalls, you will enjoy tasty food for very cheap. Just for this market, you should sleep at least one night In Phimai. And you probably will fall under the spell of Phimai. This city really deserves a stop. A small provincial town like we love with a beautiful temple...

Hotel in Phimai

Practical information about Phimai

Most of the time visitors are just going to Phimai to visit the temple and go back to Nakhon Ratchasima or Buriram. Therefore the city has relatively few options to sleep. However, we advise you to stay for the night. In high season (November-March), especially during the weekend of the festival, check just before you get there that there is still room for you by calling the hotel or guesthouse you chose. Note that you can rent bikes at the Boonsiri Guesthouse.
From October to late April, a small sound and light show is presented on the last Saturday of each month. A bigger show and traditional boat races on the Lam Chakarat river (behind Pratu Hin) take place for the Phimai Festival the second weekend of November.

Other places to see in Phimai