1 Chatuchak Weekend Market
2 Doi Inthanon
3 Grand Palace
4 Khao Sok National Park
5 Mekong River
6 Phang-nga Bay
7 Prasat Phanom Rung
8 Similan Islands
9 Sukhothai Historical Park
10 Wat Phra That Lampang Luang
Built between the 10th and 13th centuries, Prasat Phanom Rung is the largest and best preserved Khmer monument outside Cambodia.
The architecture of the kingdom of Angkor reached its apogee during the reign of King Suriyavarman II (AD 1113-50), when the greater part of the work on Prasat Phanom Rung was completed.
Phanom Rung was originally built as a Hindu temple honouring the deities Vishnu and Shiva. Beautifully carved representations of these two gods adorn the lintels and pediments of the sanctuary, together with figures of Nandi, the bull mount of Shiva and Uma. On the east portico of the antechamber is a fine nataraja or dancing Shiva figure. Beyond, in the rust-coloured central section of the sanctuary, is a Shiva lingam (phallic image). The famed Phra Narai lintel, a carved relief bearing the image of Lord Narayana (a manifestation of Vishnu), is over the east-facing front entrance. Growing from his navel is a lotus blossom, on a branch of which sits Brahma, the Hindu lord of creation. One of the most impressive sights of the sanctuary is from the west-facing laterite promenade that leads straight to the main temple. In the early morning the rising sun illuminates the steps and naga (mythical Hindu water serpent) balustrades leading to the inner complex containing the central mondop (ante-chamber) and main prang (spire). The promenade passes the White Elephant Hall on the right. The climb to the sanctuary from the car park is gradual and passes a number of small museum buildings housing artefacts from the site, including carved stone lintels. It took 20 years to restore the sanctuary.Address: 144km southeast of Nakhon Ratchasima
Hours: Daily 6-6
Restaurant: Food stalls at entrance
Bus: Regular buses from Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram and Surin
Accessible: None
Admission: Cheap
Practical: Phanom Rung Festival, Mar
Info: Mittaphap Road, Nakhon Ratchasima PHONE: (044) 213666
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