Prasat Hin Phimai

During the rise of the Khemr rule, the capital was named Angkor Wat and much of Thailand is part of this vast empire. Great structures and temples are scattered around northeastern Thailand im a place called Isan today. This is the modern town of Korat.

The Prasat Hin Phimai is a striking structure built with magnificence and old world elegance. The temple somewhat resembles the ever famous Angkor Wat. The main difference between the two is that the central part of Angkor is an enormous mountain artificially made whereas the Phimai’s is a flat and smaller version of the sanctuary. The Phimai is also easier to explore compared to the huge Angkor.
The similarity of the floor plan and outward appearance of the two are remarkable. The interesting part is that while the Angkor Wat is dedicated to the Hindu deities, the Phimai is somewhat a Buddhist temple. The Phimai has 3 concentric enclosures which are rectangular in shape. The temple’s outer walls serve as the protection of the city and it measures 500 meters by one kilometer. In the temple, another middle rectangle shaped wall lies within an enclosure. Inside is a vast open space which will lead visitors to an inner sanctuary.

The Phimai is another man made wonder. The pieces of lintel are carefully made and comparable to those in Angkor Wat. The main sanctuary has also been restored to capture the former glory when it was newly made.

People who are interested in history and old world adventures will surely love this man made marvel. The Buddha which is protected with a naga can also be found inside. The towers of the temple is presumed to be the pattern and model used in building the Angkor Wat towers built years after the Phimai is erected.

No matter how many good praises and description is supplied, nothing beats it when you personally visit the place. The Phimai is a great visitor destination which you certainly have to visit when you go to Thailand.

Prasat Hin Phimai