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Prasat Phanom Wan Nakhon Ratchasima
Monument
293 views
Phanom Wan Sub-district, Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand
Added on Sun, Nov 9, 2025 at 8:49 AM
Updated on Fri, Nov 21, 2025 at 10:42 AM
Year Built
1050 CE (11th century)
Period
Medieval Period
Architectural Style
Built By
Khmer Empire
Patronage
Khmer Empire Royalty
Material Used
Contributed By
Team InheritageAdded Nov 9, 2025
Prasat Phanom Wan Nakhon Ratchasima
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Heritage Overview
Prasat Phanom Wan Nakhon Ratchasima
Prasat Phanom Wan, located approximately 15 kilometers northeast of Nakhon Ratchasima city, represents an important 11th-century Khmer Shiva temple that served as a regional religious center along the ancient highway connecting Phimai to Angkor. The temple complex, constructed during the Baphuon period in the 11th century CE, is dedicated to Shiva, with the main prasat housing a massive lingam pedestal and evidence of extensive ritual activity. The complex features a rectangular laterite enclosure wall measuring 102 by 128 meters, accessed through a single eastern gopura that leads to the inner courtyard containing the main prasat and two libraries. The main prasat, constructed from pink sandstone and laterite, rises 20 meters and features a square plan with four porches extending in cardinal directions, though only the eastern porch remains substantially intact. The temple’s lintels and pediments, carved from pink sandstone, depict scenes from Hindu mythology, including Shiva’s cosmic dance, the churning of the ocean of milk, and various deities, though many have been damaged or removed over centuries. The complex includes two libraries positioned east of the main prasat, numerous subsidiary shrines, and evidence of a sophisticated drainage system. Archaeological evidence indicates the temple served as both a religious center and waypoint for travelers on the ancient highway. The site has undergone partial restoration since the 1980s, involving structural stabilization and conservation of remaining decorative elements. Today, Prasat Phanom Wan remains an important site for understanding Khmer temple architecture and the network of religious centers connecting regional sites to Angkor, attracting visitors interested in its historical significance and architectural features. ([1][2])
Historical Context
Prasat Phanom Wan was constructed in the 11th century CE during the Baphuon period, serving as a regional religious center for Shiva worship along the ancient highway. The temple was abandoned by the 15th century and fell into ruin. French archaeologist Étienne Aymonier documented the site in 1901. Systematic surveys by the Fine Arts Department began in 1935. Partial restoration work has been conducted since the 1980s. ([1][2])
Location Map
Visit Information
Visiting Hours
Prasat Phanom Wan: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Daily.
Entry Fee
20 THB for all visitors.
Best Visit Times
November to February: This is the cool and dry season in Nakhon Ratchasima, offering pleasant weather (temperatures typically 20-30°C) ideal for exploring the outdoor historical site comfortably. During the Phanom Wan Festival (April): For a vibrant cultural experience with local traditions and celebrations. Early morning (8:30 AM - 10:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00 PM - 4:30 PM) to avoid the midday heat and for better photography conditions.
Official Website
Go to Official WebsiteArchitectural Highlights
Architectural Style
Period
Medieval Period
Influences
Khmer Temple Architecture, Baphuon Style, Hindu Shiva Temple Design, Southeast Asian Prasat Design
Heritage Status
National Heritage Site
Preservation Status
Fair; partial restoration completed; some structures stabilized; ongoing maintenance needed. ([1][2])
Conservation Status
Fair; partial restoration completed; structures partially stable; ongoing maintenance needed. ([1][2])
Archaeological Survey
Surveyed By
Étienne Aymonier, Fine Arts Department of Thailand
Survey Date
1901, 1935, 1980
Featured Images
Citation References
No references recorded. Add citations to strengthen verification.
Excavation Details
Excavations revealed foundation systems, construction techniques, and evidence of ritual activity.
Restoration Work
Partial restoration since 1980s including structural stabilization and conservation of decorative elements. ([1][2])
Patronage
Khmer Empire Royalty
Construction Technique
The construction of Prasat Phanom Wan involved a meticulous sequence, beginning with the quarrying of pink sandstone and laterite. Builders rough-shaped these massive blocks at the quarry, then transported them to the site, likely using ramps, rollers, and animal power. The primary method was dry masonry, where stones were precisely cut and fitted without mortar, relying on gravity and friction for stability. Carving of intricate details, such as bas-reliefs and decorative motifs, often occurred *in situ* after the blocks were set. Brick was employed for infill or secondary structures, while stucco provided a smooth finish for painted decoration, now largely lost.
Architectural Influences
Khmer Temple Architecture, Baphuon Style, Hindu Shiva Temple Design, Southeast Asian Prasat Design
Building Techniques
Prasat Phanom Wan showcases sophisticated Khmer building techniques, notably the extensive use of corbelling for vaults and roofs. This method, stacking successive courses of stone slightly inward, allowed for the creation of enclosed spaces without true arches. Builders employed precise joinery, including occasional mortise and tenon connections, to interlock structural elements and enhance stability. The strategic application of materials—dense laterite for core mass and foundations, durable sandstone for facing and intricate carving—demonstrates an advanced understanding of material properties and their optimal use in monumental construction.
Coordinates
15.025080, 102.193680
Accessibility Info
5 items
Visitor Facilities
4 items
Best Visit Times
November to February: This is the cool and dry season in Nakhon Ratchasima, offering pleasant weather (temperatures typically 20-30°C) ideal for exploring the outdoor historical site comfortably. During the Phanom Wan Festival (April): For a vibrant cultural experience with local traditions and celebrations. Early morning (8:30 AM - 10:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00 PM - 4:30 PM) to avoid the midday heat and for better photography conditions.
Seasonal Events
3 items
Visitor Restrictions
["Visitors are requested to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as a sign of respect for the sacred site.","Please refrain from touching or climbing on the ancient structures to preserve their integrity.","Littering is strictly prohibited; visitors should dispose of waste in designated bins.","Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but professional equipment or commercial photography may require special permission.","Respectful behavior is expected, including keeping noise levels down and not disturbing other visitors."]
View Count
293
Is Featured
Yes
Is Published
Yes
Completion Score
75
Completion Status
complete
Created By
b609c300-e3e9-42af-8d00-5125af139175
Created At
2025-11-09T08:49:56.926551+00:00
Updated At
2025-11-21T10:42:24.51649+00:00
Related Heritage Sites
What is Prasat Phanom Wan Nakhon Ratchasima?
Prasat Phanom Wan Nakhon Ratchasima is a historic Monument located in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. This Khmer Baphuon architecture style, Khmer architecture style, Southeast Asian Hindu Temple architecture style, Hindu Temple architecture style architectural masterpiece was built during the Medieval Period period and represents significant cultural and historical heritage of Thailand. Prasat Phanom Wan, located approximately 15 kilometers northeast of Nakhon Ratchasima city, represents an important 11th-century Khmer Shiva temple that served as a regional religious center along the...
Category:
MonumentLocation:
Phanom Wan Sub-district, Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand, Nakhon RatchasimaPeriod:
Medieval PeriodStyle:
Khmer Baphuon architecture style, Khmer architecture style, Southeast Asian Hindu Temple architecture style, Hindu Temple architecture styleArchitectural Features
- 1Traditional Khmer Baphuon architecture style, Khmer architecture style, Southeast Asian Hindu Temple architecture style, Hindu Temple architecture style design elements
- 2Intricate stone carvings and sculptures
- 3Symmetrical layout with precise proportions
- 4Integration with natural landscape
Key Features of Prasat Phanom Wan Nakhon Ratchasima
- 1Khmer Baphuon architecture style, Khmer architecture style, Southeast Asian Hindu Temple architecture style, Hindu Temple architecture style architectural style with distinctive design elements
- 2Constructed using बलुआ पत्थर - Baluā Patthar (Pink Sandstone), लैटेराइट - Laiterāiṭa (Laterite), ईंट - Īṇṭ (Brick), पलस्तर - Palastar (Stucco), showcasing traditional building techniques
- 3Built using The construction of Prasat Phanom Wan involved a meticulous sequence, beginning with the quarrying of pink sandstone and laterite. Builders rough-shaped these massive blocks at the quarry, then transported them to the site, likely using ramps, rollers, and animal power. The primary method was dry masonry, where stones were precisely cut and fitted without mortar, relying on gravity and friction for stability. Carving of intricate details, such as bas-reliefs and decorative motifs, often occurred *in situ* after the blocks were set. Brick was employed for infill or secondary structures, while stucco provided a smooth finish for painted decoration, now largely lost. construction methods
- 4National Heritage Site providing legal protection
- 5Commissioned by Khmer Empire, reflecting royal patronage
- 6Current conservation status: Fair; partial restoration completed; structures partially stable; ongoing maintenance needed. ([1][2])
What Makes Prasat Phanom Wan Nakhon Ratchasima Special?
- 1Exceptional example of Khmer Baphuon architecture style, Khmer architecture style, Southeast Asian Hindu Temple architecture style, Hindu Temple architecture style architecture
- 2Royal patronage by Khmer Empire, reflecting historical significance
- 3Erected in the 11th century CE, Prasat Phanom Wan stands as a monumental testament to the expansive reach and sophisticated administrative prowess of the Khmer Empire, likely commissioned during the reigns of Suryavarman I or Udayadityavarman II. Its strategic positioning along the vital ancient highway connecting the imperial capital of Angkor to the significant regional center of Phimai was not merely coincidental; it marked Phanom Wan as a crucial administrative and economic node. This grand Shiva temple served as a primary conduit for the propagation of Indic spiritual and political ideologies, solidifying Khmer authority and cultural influence across the northeastern reaches of their dominion. The sheer scale of the complex, with its cruciform main prasat and extensive laterite enclosure, underscored its importance as a regional hub. Beyond its religious function, the temple complex likely played a pivotal role in the local economy and governance, potentially overseeing agricultural production from nearby *barays* (reservoirs), a common feature of major Khmer settlements. Archaeological investigations have revealed a sophisticated layout, including two *bannalai* (libraries), indicative of a center for learning and the preservation of sacred texts, further cementing its role as a cultural anchor. The prominent pedestal for a massive *lingam* within the central sanctuary unequivocally points to its unwavering dedication to Shaivism, a cornerstone of Khmer royal cults. Its eventual abandonment by the 15th century reflects broader shifts in regional power dynamics, leaving behind a profound historical imprint of a once-thriving imperial outpost.
Visitor Information
How to Visit Prasat Phanom Wan Nakhon Ratchasima
| ฿Entry Fee | 20 THB for all visitors. |
| 🕐Opening Hours | Dawn to Dusk (6 AM - 6 PM) |
| 📅Best Time to Visit | October to March (Winter) |
| ⏱️Duration | 2-3 hours |
| ♿Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible |
| 📸Photography | Allowed (No flash) |
Complete Visitor Guide
How to Visit Prasat Phanom Wan Nakhon Ratchasima: Step-by-Step Guide
- 1
Plan Your Visit
Check opening hours and entry fees for Prasat Phanom Wan Nakhon Ratchasima. Book tickets online if available to avoid queues. Best visited during early morning or late afternoon.
- 2
Reach the Location
Prasat Phanom Wan Nakhon Ratchasima is located in Phanom Wan Sub-district, Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand, Nakhon Ratchasima. The nearest major city is Phanom Wan Sub-district. Accessible by road, rail, and air. Use GPS coordinates: 15.02508, 102.19368.
- 3
Entry and Guidelines
Entry fee: 20 THB for all visitors.. Follow dress code for religious sites. Photography is allowed. Maintain silence and respect the heritage.
- 4
Explore the Site
Allocate 2-3 hours to fully explore Prasat Phanom Wan Nakhon Ratchasima. Key areas to visit include the main sanctum, pillared halls, and intricate carvings. Consider hiring a local guide for detailed insights.
Historical Timeline
Key Historical Events
Medieval Period
Construction of Prasat Phanom Wan Nakhon Ratchasima by Khmer Empire
20th Century
Conservation and restoration efforts initiated under National Heritage Site
2024-2025
Digital documentation and 3D scanning completed by Inheritage Foundation