Phanom Rung Travel Guide
Travel to Phanom Rung - Volcano-top Khmer Temple
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A huge and impressive complex built atop an extinct volcano Phanom Rung is one of Isan’s most important and impressive sights. Views across to Cambodia can be seen from its summit and a visit justifies the somewhat difficult journey to get here from Nakhon Ratchasima.
Phanom Rung is one of the most significant Khmer monuments in Thailand and dates from the 10th-13th century. Initially a Hindu Shiva monastery; there are also sculptures representing images of Vishnu. During the 15th-18th Buddhist century, several additions were made.
Attractions in Phanom Rung
First to strike visitors is the grand stairway from the foot of the hill up to the top. Most of the buildings of the sanctuary are made of laterite and sandstone, all with elaborate designs. The buildings are lined all the way to the main pagoda. This layout is according to Hindu belief of the layout of the heaven of the god Shiva.
A processional way leads through Naga (serpent) bridges to the main sanctuary where lintels and pediments depict the Hindu gods Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, with scenes of the epic Ramayana also depicted. The most famous disappeared from Thailand for many years and was recently returned and depicts Vishnu reclining on the back of the Naga King Ananta. The main pagoda is large with a square base and faces east.
Activities in Phanom Rung
Allow around 2 hours to see the site.
Relaxing
Arriving early in the morning allows reflective views over the surrounding countryside.
Getting Around
The site lies some 130km southeast of Nakhon Ratchasima; visit as part of a sightseeing trip around the northeast.
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