The Phanom Rung Stone Castle in the north eastern Buriram province of Thailand is believed to be over 1,000 years old. Created with an architecture similar to Angkor style, it exudes a strong influence of the Khmer culture. Such artifacts exists in Thailand today as prior to the establishment of the historical Kingdom of Siam, some parts of Thailand as we know today are under the influence of the Khmer culture. This is more obvious in the eastern and north regions.
At 400 meters above the sea level sitting on the edge of an extinct volcano that is now a lush forested area, the walkway leading to the main entrance of the castle exudes the sense of its grand status in the past. It is also believed that the castle was built as a representation of the heavenly home of the Hindu god, Shiva. Upon entering the sanctuary, you will walk across the Naga serpent bridges that symbolize the walkway from earth to heaven.
At the entrance and throughout the inside halls and galleries which were used for important royal cermonies, stone carvings show the stories of Ramayana as well as figures of many gods of Hindu beliefs.
Built in the 11th century using sandstone and laterite, the details of the extremely delicate architecture reflects the architectural intelligence of the builders. Such skillfulness is particularly evidence annually in the month of April when a wonderful phenomenon of the sun shining through all the 15 doorways happens. Further strengthens the belief of the god Shiva’s castle being the center of the universe.
With its great cultural and architectural significance, the Phanom Rung Historical Park was nominated to become a UNESCO’s World Heritage Site in 2005. Surely this attraction is one not to be missed for anyone travelling to the north eastern region of Thailand.
