About Phimai
Phimai is a small town in Nakhon Ratchasima province with one of Thailand's most important Angkorian temples. Phimai Historical Park is open daily from 7:00 to 18:00 and shows Khmer temples from the eleventh and twelfth centuries that are among the best preserved in the country. On the south side stands the Victory Gate, Pratu Chai. About 1.5 km from the ruins stands Sai Ngam, a banyan tree about 350 years old said to be the largest in Thailand. The water basin Sra Phlaeng is a popular spot during Loy Krathong. In town there are simple guesthouses, a market and quiet streets. Phimai makes a pleasant day trip or overnight stay from Korat. Come in the early morning or late afternoon, when it is cooler.
Best time to visit (indicative)
Best from November to February: cool and dry. March to May is very hot; June to October is the rainy season, with green rice fields. From February to April there can be haze from burning fields. Weather varies from year to year; this is a guideline based on the climate.
Getting there
From Korat by bus (about 1.5 hours, roughly 60 km); from Bangkok by train or bus to Korat and onward. Distances and travel times are rounded estimates.
Things to do in Phimai
- Phimai Historical Park Khmer temples from the eleventh and twelfth centuries, open daily 7:00 to 18:00.
- Sai Ngam A banyan tree about 350 years old, the largest in Thailand, 1.5 km from the temple.
- Pratu Chai The southern gate of old Phimai, an imposing structure.
- Sra Phlaeng A water basin with a walkway, popular during Loy Krathong.
