Originally called ‘Nakhon Roi
Prang’ (Hundred Prang City), the province boasts of having
the most Khmer stone sanctuaries, most of which are concentrated
in the southern part, with magnificent Phanom Rung Stone
Sanctuary being a popular tourist attraction and the most
beautiful example of Khmer architecture in Thailand. And
no wonder, since this province bordering present day Cambodia
was once a prosperous Khmer city. The modern name of Buri
Ram means “city of peace”. It is one of the largest
and most populated provinces in Isan (the northeastern
region).
Buri Ram is 410 kilometres
from Bangkok. It has an area of 10,321 square kilometres.
The province is divided into the following districts:
Muang Buri Ram, Nang Rong, Lam Plai Mat, Prakhon Chai,
Phutthaisong, Satuek, Krasang, Ban Kruat, Khu Mueang,
Lahan Sai, Nong Ki, Pakham, Na Pho, Nong Hong, Phlapphla
Chai, Huai Rat, Non Suwan, Chaloem Phra Kiat, Chamni,
Non Din Daeng, Chaloem Phra Kiat, Ban Mai Chaiyaphot,
Ban Dan, and Khaen Dong.
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Khao
Phanom Rung Fair takes place in April when the sunrise
amazingly shines through all the 15 doorways of the sanctuary,
bringing out the true splendour of the site and confirming
the unmatched skills of the sanctuary’s builders. Such
a spectacular event occurs only at Phanom Rung. Activities
include a procession like that in Khmer times and a light-and-sound
show.