Phimai Historical Park

Ebook version

Some 60 km. north of town, the ancient sanctuary of Phimai ranks among the grandest and most important Khmer historical sites in Thailand, and one of the finest to be seen outside Cambodia. The principal sight in what is an extensive historical park is the main sanctuary set in a walled compound and once connected by road to Angkor. Dating from between the late 11th and mid-12th century, the sandstone sanctuary comprises a 28-metre-high tower with adjoining antechambers and porticoes on three sides, all finely proportioned and decorated with intricate stone carving. Other impressive remains at the site include the Prasat (Khmer towers) of flanking sanctuaries in the inner courtyard, and four corner ceremonial ponds in the outer courtyard.