Buriram Travel Guide

Introduction to Buriram

Situated in the southern portion of Issan, Buriram is known throughout the country for the prowess of its Thai Division 1 football (soccer) team. This shouldn’t keep you away if you aren’t a sports fan, though – it is located amidst a stunning variety of Khmer style Buddhist and (former) Hindu temples. No matter your motivation for travelling here, you’ll be sure to have a good time.

Cultural Attractions in Buriram

Start your sightseeing in Buriram Province by checking out Phanom Rung Historical Park. Protecting a Khmer era temple that was built on the rim of an extinct volcano at some point between the 10th and 13th centuries, it is a fabulous sight to behold.

Not able to fit in Angkor Wat in your travel itinerary? Head out here and check out its courtyards and sanctuaries, as well as the approach to the complex. All will provide a window into the Khmer style of architecture, so be sure to add it to your must-see list when visiting Buriram.

After, Phanom Rung, drop by Prasat Hin Mueang Tum. Constructed in the 10th or early 11th centuries, it is another Khmer temple. This one was dedicated towards the deities of Shiva and Vishnu, and like all other Khmer temples in Issan, orientated in the general direction of Angkor Wat.

Since it is situated near the base of an extinct volcano, much of the compound was built of sturdy rock, meaning that it is in better condition than many of its contemporaries in the region. Just be sure to drop by in the early morning hours, as tour buses often flood the place as the day wears on, and temperatures are much more manageable.

Back in Buriram, check out this city’s best known Buddhist temple by spending some time wandering around Wat Pa Khao Noi. Constructed to match the Khmer style of older ruins in the region, it was built to honour a monk who had once taught meditation. Within, you’ll find a statue of him, plus a small series of exhibits highlighting his few possessions.

End off your cultural explorations of the Buriram area by paying a visit to the Wat Khao Angkhan Temple. Built on top another one of the many extinct volcanoes found within Buriram Province, this sacred sanctuary was founded here between the 8th and the 9th century. This gorgeous wat was built during the 1970s, taking inspiration from a variety of building styles, incorporating Chinese, Thai, Sri Lankan, and Khmer architectural elements.

Within the main temple, you’ll find elaborate murals and lessons from the Buddha transcribed into English, while you’ll find a Chinese style pagoda and a massive Reclining Buddha statue outside. While this place is found in an isolated location, these attractions make the journey to get here well worth the trouble.

Other Attractions in Buriram

These days, this city in Issan is best known for being home to one of Thailand’s best football teams. As such, you should do your best to take in a Buriram United game during your stay here. Chang Arena is where they play, and even if you aren’t familiar with Thai football, cheering on the home team is always fun.

Want to watch some horse racing as well? There is a race track adjacent to the stadium, so if there isn’t a home game going on when you are visiting Buriram, you can always play the ponies.

Next, head out of town, where you will find Khao Kradong Forest Park. Protecting an entire former extinct volcano, you’ll walk across a suspension bridge which will lead you to a path that will take you through a peaceful forest on your way to the top.

At the summit, your reward will be a Big Buddha image, in addition to the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel when you get an amazing view of Buriram city from the top.

Want to introduce some beauty into your life during your time in Buriram Province? Make sure to visit Play La Ploen Flora Park during your time here. In this place, you’ll find specimens sourced from all around the world spread across six greenhouses, as well as in a number of flower beds exterior to these environments.

Finally, make time in your schedule to check out King Rama I Monument. Built to honour the first Thai king in the present royal line of succession, it depicts him riding on the back of an elephant. It is a great statue of which to snap a picture, but take care, as it is situated in the middle of a busy roundabout. Traffic in Thailand is notoriously aggressive, but be sure you have safe passage before crossing.