Phanom Rung is located on the top of Phanom Rung Mountain, an extinct volcano, in Tambon Ta Pek, Amphoe Chaloem Phra Kiat, Buriram Province. It is the historical site of Khmer art and one of Thailand’s most beautiful and meaningful places.
Temple Dedication:
PHANOM RUNG IS A KHMER TEMPLE DEVOTED TO SHAVA that was once part of the ancient Khmer Empire but is now located within Thailand’s Buriram province. This site’s full name is Prasat Hin Phanom Rung, but it is more commonly known as Phanom Rung. This complex was designed to take full advantage of its location’s morphology, with an impressive staircase leading to the temple at the top of the hill. This gives visitors the impression that they are looking at a substantial manufactured building rather than a hill. At the bottom, middle, and top of the stairs, there are three Naga Bridges.
The walkway and stairway form a 160-meter-long passage from the entrance to the main temple.
Hinduism Tribute:
This religious place was built to consecrate Shiva, a supreme god of Hinduism in Shaivism. Kailash Mountain, a Shiva’s throne room and a representation of the centre of the universe, is compared to Phanom Rung Mountain and Prasat Phanom Rung at the top of the hill. From the 15th to the 18th centuries, Buddha constructed a number of buildings on the mountain over a number of years. “Phanom Rung” is also the name of the architect of Prasat Phanom Rung, “Narentharathitta,” from a branch of the Mahithon Pura dynasty related to the cousin of King Suriya Woraman II. “Waning Rung” is the name of a large mountain that appeared in Khmer inscriptions discovered at Prasat Phanom Rung.
Fine arts:
The Department of Fine Arts designated an area of 451 rai, 11 Tarang was (0.7491 square km) as a historical site in the Government Gazette, Volume 93, Part 141 on November 9, 2519, and also developed the historical park project. These actions helped preserve Prasat Phanom Rung, which was built between 2514 and 2531 BC. On May 21, 2531 BC, His Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn oversaw the official opening ceremony.
Best time to visit:
The best time of year to visit Phanom Rung is during the dry season, which lasts from November to May. Though Buriram province is one of the regions less affected by the monsoon, you won’t see much water even on a rainy day. So even if you are there during the rainy season, don’t be discouraged. The annual Phanom Rung Historical Park festival, which includes a special ceremony, takes place during that time if you happen to be in the area around the end of March or the beginning of April. The sanctuary’s 15 doors will perfectly reflect the first sunrays at sunrise, creating a magical environment that will be celebrated with rituals, chanting, dances, and even fireworks.
Is it safe to travel?
Both the archaeological sites and Nang Rong are safe places to travel. Don’t expect to see many foreigners in Nang Rong at night, but the locals are friendly and willing to help.
