The Khmer temple complex at Phanom Rung in north-eastern Thailand is the largest and best restored of all the Khmer monuments in Thailand. The temple was constructed between the 10th and 13th centuries with the bulk of the work done during the reign of King Suriyavarman II (1113 to 1150 AD), which was the apex of Angkor architecture.
The complex is located on an extinct volcano and dominates the surrounding countryside. It has a fine promenade leading to the main gate, numerous galleries and halls, and the only three naga bridges left in Thailand. The craftwork represents the pinnacle of Khmer artistic achievement, and is on a par with the reliefs at Angkor Wat in Cambodia. The best time to visit Phanom Rung is before 10 am, when it is still cool, the light is good for photography and the site has few visitors.
Phanom Rung is not an easy place to reach but it is well worth the effort. Trains and buses leave Bangkok for Khorat (also known as Nakhon Ratchasima) and take between four and five hours. From Khorat you need to catch a Surin-bound bus and get off at Ban Ta-Ko. Wait here for a songthaew to the complex.