About Prasat Hin Phimai

There is something quite mystical about the Prasat Hing Phimai, a historical park in Phimai, in the Thai province Nakhon Ratchasima. It is one of the largest Khmer temple complexes in the country. The area is one kilometre long and over half a kilometre wide.

The buildings date back to the 11th and 12th centuries. The Khmer civilization was generally Hindu, but the temple was built in the Buddhist style. It is interesting to note that the entrance points south towards Angkor, instead of to the east as other Khmer temples.

There are three main temple structures with Prasat Hin Phimai at the centre, symbolizing Meru Mountain, home of the Gods. It is where you’ll find the replica of a Buddha image. Sandstone buildings with intricate carvings and inlays will transport you back in time. Don’t be afraid of the two stone lions standing guard at the entry or the naga-shaped sculptures of the bridge. They symbolize the transition from the real world to the temporal.

Must See

  • Naga Bridge
  • Statue of Khmer King Jayavarman VII
  • Sacred Linga
  • Inscriptions dedicated to the Buddha

How to reach

By bus:

Take a bus from Bangkok’s Northern bus terminal Morchit to Nakhon Ratchasima town, from where you take a local bus to Phimai.

Take the local bus from Nakhon Ratchasima Terminal 2 to Phimai. It is a journey of 59.6 km that is covered in 1 hour 30 minutes and costs 50 THB.

Tips

  • Held annually in the second week of November, the Phimai Festival includes elaborate longboat races, parades, folk performances and the Vimaya Natakan light and sound show held on the grounds of Prasat Hin Phimai. Don't miss out on this experience.
  • Internet is available at J Net, located 300 meters north of the clock tower at the corner of Tha Songkran and Chomsa. Visitors can go there if they need to access the web.
  • Banks and ATMs are found near the clock tower. You'll have to head there if you need cash, or bring some with you.
  • The temple faces southeast, so arrive early in the morning to get the best photographs when the sun's low-angled rays bathe the front facades in golden reddish-orange hues.
  • Phimai is a great town for a bike ride: take a spin south down Buchayan Road from the clocktower and you’ll reach Phratu Chai, an ancient stone gate. Since it's a small town, this medium of exploration is highly recommended.
  • Phimai is a little remote, but that's what makes it ideal for those who are looking for peace and tranquility.

Visit Time

Sunday:           8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Monday:          8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Tuesday:         8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday:    8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Thursday:        8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Friday:             8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Saturday:         8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Time Icon

Waiting Time

You may have to wait in queue for entry during peak season..

 

Entrance Fee Icon

Entrance Fee

Yes

Phimai Historical Park:

Admission: 100 THB

Phimai National Museum:

Admission: 30 THB

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Time you can spend Icon

Time you can spend

2 to 3 hours

 

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Weather

Overcast Clouds 28.2°C

 

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