Located on the flat plains of the Khorat Plateau, Isan (the ‘I' is pronounced with a long ‘EE' sound) is the Northeastern region of Thailand. Isan was once ruled by the ancient Khmer empire (renowned for building Angkor Wat in Cambodia ). Evidence of the Khmer's occupation can still be found in the architecture of places such as Wat Phra That Phanom in Nakhon Phanom, Prasat Hin Khao Phanom Rung in Buri Ram and Prasat Hin Phimai in Khorat. The area has been populated for thousands of years, with Bronze-age remains having recently been discovered in Ban Chiang village in Udon Thani.
Located in Nakhorn Ratchasima Province in Northeast Thailand, Phimai National Historical Park is one of the best preserved examples of an ancient Khmer temple network found in the country. On entering the park grounds you will discover that its similarity to Angkor Wat in Cambodia is striking. In fact, some of the buildings are even older than those found at Angkor Wat... READ MORE
Just southwest of Phimai in Northeast Thailand, you will find the small park of Prasat Phanom Wan. The park is home to an ancient Hindu temple, which was constructed during the 13th and 14th centuries on top of another brick structure that is said to date back to the 10th century. The older structure is likely to have been built during the height of the Khmer Empire, along with other ancient Hindu temples found in the region... READ MORE
Perched on the rim of an extinct volcano, Prasat Phanom Rung Historic Park is a jewel in the crown of Northeast Thailand. The fact that the park is situated on top of a volcano may be missed by all except the occasional geologist vacationer; however, at 1,320 feet above sea level, no one will fail to miss the park's magnificent views... READ MORE
The temple complex at Prasat Muang Tam is part of the vast expansion of the ancient Khmer Empire, which originated in Angkor Wat, Cambodia. Somewhat overshadowed by Prasat Pha Nom Rung, Prasat Muang Tam is still a very beautiful and awe-inspiring site that should not be missed. The temple at Prasat Muang Tam is over 900 years old. Its name is derived from its position, "Prasat Muang Tam" literally translated means "a sanctuary located in a lower area"... READ MORE
