Formerly part of the ancient Khmer Empire, the north-eastern province of Buriram is steeped in history and tradition. Dramatic landscapes, astonishing archaeological sites and authentic Thai culture make this lesser explored region well worth discovering.
Buriram’s Khmer heritage dates back 1000 years, and is on stunning display throughout the province. Buriram features some 60 magnificent sandstone sanctuaries. Set dramatically atop an extinct volcano, Phanom Rung is the most spectacular Khmer monument in Thailand. Explore the beautifully restored shrines and carvings, and catch breathtaking views over the mountains and Muang Tam temple complex below.
Delve deep into the Empire’s past inside one of several medieval kiln sites. From the 9th to the 13th century, these excavated kilns formed one of the most significant pottery-making centres of the Khmer Empire. Visit the renovated kilns of Tao Sawai and Tao Nai Chian, near Ban Kruat. Or discover the remarkable collections of pottery, artefacts, textiles, paintings and other exhibitions inside the Buri Ram Cultural Centre of Buriram Rajabhat University.
Take a day trip out to Amphoe Na Pho, a silk-weaving village 78 kilometres north of Buri Ram town. Here you can buy award-winning silks and fine cotton fabrics, and see them hand-woven using traditional techniques.
Relax in the tranquility of Khao Kradong Forest Park, once an extinct volcano and now home to a myriad of native plants and wildlife. Drive or hike up the volcano, past a procession of Buddha statues, to Buriram’s iconic Buddha image at the top. Or visit the Buriram Bird Park reserve at Huai Talat reservoir, where you’ll encounter more than 100 local and migratory species, many of them rare and endangered.