Phimai Historical Park, located in the heart of Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, is a captivating site that showcases the grandeur of ancient Khmer architecture. Known for its stunning stone carvings and historical significance, this park provides a mesmerizing glimpse into the cultural heritage of the region. Perfect for history enthusiasts and travelers alike, a visit to Phimai Historical Park promises unforgettable experiences amidst its majestic ruins.
Phimai Historical Park stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Khmer Empire. Nestled in Nakhon Ratchasima province, this historical site draws visitors from around the world who seek to delve into the rich tapestry of Thailand’s past. The park is home to the remarkable Prasat Hin Phimai, a temple complex built during the 11th century, which reflects the exquisite artistry and spiritual significance of Khmer architecture.
As you enter the park, you are greeted by the majestic stone structures that have withstood the test of time. The central temple, Prasat Hin Phimai, serves as the focal point of the park and showcases intricate carvings that depict various mythological stories and religious themes. The impressive sandstone architecture is complemented by beautifully landscaped surroundings, creating a serene atmosphere for exploration and reflection.
Beyond its architectural wonders, Phimai Historical Park is steeped in history. It once served as a vital religious center and connected the region with the ancient city of Angkor. The park also features a museum that provides valuable insights into the Khmers’ culture, beliefs, and everyday life, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.
Visitors are encouraged to wander through the lush grounds, admire the ancient structures, and soak in the historical significance that permeates the air. With its captivating beauty and rich heritage, Phimai Historical Park is more than just a destination; it is a journey into the heart of Thailand’s historical and cultural narrative.
Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply in search of a tranquil escape, Phimai Historical Park offers a unique and enriching experience that captures the essence of Thailand’s Khmer heritage, making it an essential stop on your travel itinerary.
ปราสาทหินพิมาย (พิมาย, ไทย) - รีวิว - ThailandAgoda.com
Phimai Historical Park is perched on a picturesque hilltop overlooking Ananthachinda Rd Nai Mueang, 30110, Thailand
We traveled from Siem Reap Cambodia across O-smach border to Nakhon Ratchasima province in order to visit Phimai. Phimai, formerly known as Viyamapura located in Thailand. This temple is Angkor style temple that was built during the reign of Suryavaman II and additional construction in the reign of Jayavarman VII. From Angkor to Phimai is about 240kilometers. Along the road there are rest houses, stone bridges and wooden bridges with hospitals there were thoroughly built under the reign of Jayavarman VII. If you have time visit this temple, make sure you visit Angkor first and stay at Natura Resort then end with Phimai and stay at Benya guesthouse.
A very nice place for those who love ancient history.A good place to visit where you won’t need to fight your way among hordes of madding crowd of tourists.The place is right in the middle of the town so it is very accessible to all amenities. No need to get to Phimai then have to get other transport out to it. You simply get off the bus at Phimai then walk there.A good way to relax after lunch, do a bit of walking and enjoy the scenery.
This is about 4 hours by bus to Korat then another 2 hour from the bus station to Phimai by car. The entire architecture is typical of Classical Angkor style.A great place to visit and enjoy without having to squeeze your way with the tourist crowd. Parking would be an issue due to limited lots in front of the park, elsewhere would be better.
The ancient Khmer imperial highway in the eleventh century stretched approximately 400 kilometers from Angkor Wat to end here at this magnificent jewel of a temple with its mixture of Hindu and Buddhist spiritual elements with Thai, Lao, and Khmer cultural influences. Some have called it a miniature Angkor Wat, but the smaller scale and intimacy of this complex imparts a spiritual quality that is hard to describe without experiencing it. Part of the specialness comes from its limited restoration which allows the visitor to sense both the glory and the decay the Khmer empire and of all life.
The Phimai Historical Park is a complex of Khmer temples, similar to those of Angkor Wat but much smaller. It is located right in the center of the small city of Phimai. The whole place is very beautiful and well maintained, and it is very interesting to walk around in and outside the temples.We visited the historical park a few days after Christmas, and they did not charge an entry fee during this time. Although it was high season and also many Thais had a few days off, the place was not too crowded.There is a parking lot next to the entrance, but it is very small, so do not expect to find parking space there if you come on a busy day. However, there are opportunities to park in the streets surrounding the historical park, and you do not have to walk far to get to the temple.Phimai itself is a small city with a lot of charm. When it gets dark, there is a street market with a big variety of food next to the temple complex. Very much recommended!
In Isan town of PhiMai you will find this historical site with a temple complex from the Khmer period. It is very nice and well kept. Also quiet, at least when we were there so the visit is very relaxed. Entrance fee is 100 baht for foreigners and 20 baht for Thai nationals. There is parking space at the entrance. A visit will take just over one hour, but is well worth doing.
Although the park is a excellent historic attraction, they actively discriminate against tourists. A Thai person only needs to pay 20 baht, but a foreigner must pay 100 baht.What does that say about the park staff?? They must think foreigners will damage the buildings. All the cashier does is look at the people and judge them by appearance. If you don’t look Thai, you pay 100 baht.I usually avoid places that discriminate against foreigners, but since I was with many Thai friends, I paid and went in.
It’s a great place to feel a sense of the power and harmony of Khmer architecture. You can sense the attention they paid to the specifics of the site, and the very well-maintained gardens, with their wonderful mature trees and ponds, are a lovely place to sit and relax and meditate for a couple of hours.The buildings, which were carefully restored in the 1960s, are fascinating in the ways in which they combine elements of Buddhism, Shivaism and less-defined animist practices; I think this is in part where the feeling of harmony comes from.One of the great advantages of Phimai is that it’s off the beaten tourist track, so most of the time you see small groups of local people – families, teenagers taking selfies, the occasional school group – soaking up the atmosphere and the history. The world slows down a little.Personally, I like to try to come here every couple of years. It’s almost a process of self-renewal. I check out my favourite corners and sit under an old tree near to the spirit house and watch the world go by. The mornings are best, as early as you can make it. You’ll see the people who work here sweeping the grass and the pathways, brushing down the stonework to try to keep the pigeons at bay, cutting grass and gathering dead branches – all the attention that keeps the place looking so perfect.
This is an impressive place minus the crowds at Angkor Wat. Good for photos but watch out for some of the steep steps. A must in your Isaan itinerary.
Phimai historical park is about 1h drive by car from Korat. We visited it on a Sunday afternoon and I was surprised that only few tourists were there. Parking is available adjacent to the park. Entrance fee for foreigners is 100 Baht. There is a small museum and toilets. It is my 3rd visit during several decades, and with regard to ease of walking within the site improvements have been done. Allegedly the area of Phimai historical park is comparable to Angkor Wat. The ancient buildings back to 11th to 12th century. The buildings are in good condition. Definitely a must visit location.