Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat) & Phimai★★
Nakhon Ratchasima (known to all as "Korat") is Thailand's largest province with 2.6 million inhabitants and the gateway to Isan. The eponymous capital (450,000 inhabitants) is a lively, modern Thai metropolis without special charm — but a perfect starting point for two top destinations: the Phimai Historical Park and Khao Yai National Park (see separate chapter).
The city's heroine is Thao Suranari (Ya Mo), a woman who allegedly saved the city from a Laotian invasion in 1826. Her monument at the west gate is the city's holiest site — locals bring offerings day and night.
The real highlight of the region lies 60 km northeast: Phimai, a Khmer temple from the 11th–12th century, which architecturally anticipates Angkor Wat and, according to some experts, even served as its model.
Prasat Hin Phimai — Thailand's Angkor★★★
The Phimai Historical Park is the most impressive Khmer monument in Thailand — and after Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, the third-largest structure of the Khmer Empire. The temple was built between the late 11th and early 12th centuries, possibly even before Angkor Wat, and was directly connected to Angkor via a 225 km royal road.
The complex is surprisingly compact and well-preserved. The central prang (tower) made of white sandstone rises 28 m high — its lotus bud top and finely carved lintels (door lintels) are masterpieces of Khmer sculpture. Depictions of scenes from the Ramayana and the life of Buddha adorn the portals.
Unlike Angkor: here you are often almost alone. No ticketing chaos, no tourist buses, no selfie-stick armies. Just you, ancient stones, and the chirping of cicadas.
100 THB (about €2.60). Daily 7:30 am–6 pm. Best in the morning light.
💡 Tipp
Also visit the Phimai National Museum (150 THB) right at the entrance — excellent collection of Khmer lintels and the famous statue of King Jayavarman VII from the 12th century. In November, the Phimai Festival with light and sound show takes place at the ruins.
Arrival & Practical Information
To Korat
- Bus (recommended): From Bangkok (Mo Chit): every 20–30 min. 1st class: 250 THB (approx. 6.60€). Duration: 3–4 hours.
- Train: From Bang Sue Grand: 4–5 hours. 2nd class: 200 THB (approx. 5.30€).
- Car: 260 km via Highway 2 (Friendship Highway). About 3 hours.
To Phimai (from Korat)
Bus No. 1305: From Korat Bus Terminal 2. Every 30 min., 1.5 hours, 60 THB (approx. 1.60€). Phimai is also an easy day trip.
Dining in Korat
Korat has the best Pad Mee Korat — the local variant of Pad Thai with thicker noodles, tomato paste instead of tamarind, and a sweet-spicy-savory sauce. Try it at the Ya Mo Market (night market by the monument) from 30 THB (approx. 0.80€).