Phimai Travel Guide
Travel to Phimai - Stunning Khmer Temple
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Phimai is without doubt one of Thailand most impressive and important Khmer historical sites dating back one thousand years. As with Phanum Rung there are elements here of Cambodia’s famous Angkor Wat. The detail of the carving here at Phimai is extraordinary and it makes for a most worthwhile stop if exploring Thailand’s northeastern Isan region.
The word Phimai appears in an inscription on a stone slab at the front doorway of the building as well as in many other structures and it is believed that the word referred to a religious figure or site.
Rectangular in shape, 565 meters wide and 1,030 meters long Phimai consists of ornately carved sandstone and laterite buildings the stone inscriptions and architectural style of which indicates it was most likely built at the end of the 11th century during the reign of King Suriyaworaman I.
The architectural style is that of the Baphuon style that prospered at the time, however, some characteristics are similar to that of Angkor Wat in Cambodia.
Attractions in Phimai
Visitors first cross the Naga Bridge which with lion figures stand in front of the gopura (porch) south of the main pagoda. The gopura was adapted as the wall around the sanctuary; there is a large corridor connecting the outer and inner areas of the main sanctuary. Above each porch is a beautifully carved lintel.
The main prang or pagoda stands 28m high, is made entirely of white sandstone and is on an open area in a curved walkway. It is the centre of the site and contrasts with the red sandstone of the porches and walls. The pagoda has a square base, a portico and stairways and doors to all 4 directions of the compass; it is adorned with beautiful designs. Of great importance are the lintels that mostly recount the tale of Ramayana from Hinduism and tales of the Mahayana sect of Buddhism. The lintels above the 4 doorways of the main pagodas inner chamber, the most important room of the pagoda, are all about Buddhism reflecting the Buddhist influence that eventually surpassed that of Hinduism.
There are other pagodas such as the Prang Brahmadat in front of the main pagoda, Prang Hin Daeng and Ho Phram (Brahma Hall) to the right, all worth seeing as is the site’s Museum.
Activities in Phimai
Allow 2 hours to see the site.
Relaxing
Find a quiet spot to enjoy the early morning or late evening light playing on the ornate prang’s of this impressive site.
Getting Around
The site lies 42km northeast of Nakhon Ratchasima; visit as part of a sightseeing trip around the northeast.
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