Explore the Khmer temples of Khao Yai National Park

You may learn about the intriguing Khmer history of the area and visit Thailand's most stunning sandstone sanctuary at Prasat Hin Phanom Rung.

You may see Thailand's biggest and most beautifully restored Khmer temple at Phanom Rung Historical Park. The temple, originally a Hindu monument, was constructed from sandstone and laterite between the years 10 and 13, and it sits proudly atop a dormant volcano with views (on a clear day) of the Dangrek Mountains in Cambodia. Many believe that the temple complex of Angkor Wat was built on Phanom Rung's site.

Phanom Rung was constructed on a grand scale with numerous stunning architectural features, such as an approach down a 160-meter avenue of pink sandstone pillars that leads to an immensely elaborate five-headed naga bridge, signifying the chasm between the realms of humans and gods. Crossing the bridge into the central shrine, once a symbol of power and beauty and still a stunning sight today, is awe-inspiring.

In the afternoon, visit Prasat Hin Phimai, located in Phimai Historical Park. Another great example of traditional Khmer temple design. The Hindu gods Shiva and Vishnu and images from the Ramayana, the great Hindu epic, are only some of the many Hindu and Mahayana Buddhist icons that decorate the main shrine. Get back to your hotel after leaving Phimai.