Though tourists flock to Angkor Wat in Cambodia, few know that Thailand also has some beautifully restored Khmer ruins, of which the most impressive is probably Prasat Hin Phimai. The original site is around a thousand years old, faces southeast towards Angkor and was once connected by a straight road that also passed by Phanom Rung.

What to see

Before exploring the temple grounds, it’s worth visiting the nearby Phimai National Museum, which displays a wonderful collection of Khmer carvings retrieved from the site, featuring apsaras (dancing female spirits) and Buddha images.

The temple itself is made of pink and grey sandstone, and the central tower has been lovingly reconditioned to approximate its original form. Lintels above the doorways feature Hindu gods such as a dancing Shiva, while inside is a seated Buddha. The complex is enclosed by cloisters with balustraded windows that offer excellent views of the towers.

A big banyan tree

While in Phimai, it’s worth renting a bike and cycling a couple of kilometres to look at Sai Ngam, an enormous banyan tree that spreads over a vast area. You can walk along paths beneath the tree’s roots and imagine yourself in some remote jungle.

Practical Info

Opening hours 7am-6pm

Entry B100.

Irregular buses run from Khorat to Phimai, but it’s more convenient to rent a vehicle to get there.

A few guesthouses offer accommodation in the small town of Phimai, and most of them rent out bicycles.