Phanom Rung

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Phanom Rung

Thai name : พนมรุ้ง

GPS : 14.53222233,102.94547796 (See on the map)

Presentation

This Khmer temple majestically sits on the top of an extinct volcano in Buriram Province. This is the largest and most interesting Khmer building in Thailand. For the temple itself, certainly, but for the beautiful paved walway lined with stone markers 70 and the grand staircase leading to it also. Built between the 10th and 13th centuries, it was a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva. Only monument in the Phanom Rung Historical Park, it has been carefully restored. Even if you visted every temples in Cambodia, you will probably be amazed by this one. The view over the surrounding countryside is also interesting.
If you can, visit Phanom Rung for one of the four times of the year when the sun penetrates through the 15 doorways of the sanctuary. 5-7 March and 5-7 October for sunsets or 3-5 April and 5-7 September for sunrises (or a day earlier in leap years). This is an extraordinary show.

Practical information about Phanom Rung

Admission fee: 100 THB or 150 for Phanom Rung + Muang Tam
Open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Tel: 044 782 715
Nang Rong is the nearest city at 28 km. Even if it is possible to do the round trip from Nakhon Ratchasima within the day, it is better to sleep in Nang Rong and to add Prasat Hin Muang Tam 8 km distant in your visits program. From Buriram by bus, you will have to stop at nang Rong too.
To go to the Phanom Rung, you would have to hire a moto taxi or a songthaew or rent a vehicle, car or scooter, with or without driver ( at the Honey Inn for instance). Historical Park is pretty easy to find, it is well indicated on the road signs.
Every first Saturday of April is held the Ascension of Khao Phanom Rung Festival. In the morning, there is a procession ascending the temple's steps and a sound and light show is playing at night.