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Prasat Sikhoraphum Surin
Sikhoraphum Sub-district, Sikhoraphum District, Surin Province, Thailand
Prasat Sikhoraphum, located in Sikhoraphum District of Surin Province, represents a significant 12th-century Khmer Hindu sanctuary distinguished by its five brick prasats arranged in a quincunx pattern and exceptional preservation of original stucco decorations. The temple complex, constructed during the reign of Suryavarman II (1113-1150 CE) in the Angkor Wat period, is dedicated to Shiva, with the central tower housing a massive lingam pedestal and the four corner towers containing smaller shrines. The complex spans approximately 2 hectares and features a rectangular laterite enclosure wall measuring 42 by 57 meters, accessed through a single eastern gopura that leads to the inner courtyard. The five prasats, constructed primarily from brick with sandstone doorframes and lintels, rise to heights between 12 and 15 meters, with the central tower being the tallest. The temple’s most remarkable feature is its extensive stucco decoration, which covers the brick surfaces with intricate bas-relief work depicting Hindu deities, celestial dancers, and mythological scenes—a rarity in Khmer architecture where most stucco has been lost to weathering. The stucco work includes depictions of Shiva, Vishnu, Brahma, and various devatas, executed with exceptional skill and preserving details of clothing, jewelry, and facial expressions. The temple’s lintels, carved from sandstone, depict scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, with particular emphasis on Krishna’s exploits. The complex includes two libraries positioned east of the central prasat, numerous subsidiary shrines, and evidence of a sophisticated drainage system. Archaeological evidence indicates the temple served as a regional religious center for the Khmer Empire’s control over the Mun River valley. The site underwent restoration from 1987 to 1995, involving structural stabilization, stucco conservation, and reconstruction of collapsed elements. Today, Prasat Sikhoraphum remains an important site for understanding Khmer stucco art and brick construction techniques, attracting visitors interested in its exceptional decorative preservation and architectural significance. ([1][2])
Year Built
12th century CE
Period
Medieval Period
Architectural Style
Khmer Angkor Wat Style Brick and Stucco Hindu Temple Architecture
Built By
Khmer Empire (Suryavarman II)
Material Used
Brick, Sandstone, Laterite, Stucco, Lime Mortar
Heritage Status
National Historical Monument
Prasat Sikhoraphum Surin
overview
Overview data: 94% complete
Heritage Overview
Temple
Prasat Sikhoraphum Surin
Prasat Sikhoraphum, located in Sikhoraphum District of Surin Province, represents a significant 12th-century Khmer Hindu sanctuary distinguished by its five brick prasats arranged in a quincunx pattern and exceptional preservation of original stucco decorations. The temple complex, constructed during the reign of Suryavarman II (1113-1150 CE) in the Angkor Wat period, is dedicated to Shiva, with the central tower housing a massive lingam pedestal and the four corner towers containing smaller shrines. The complex spans approximately 2 hectares and features a rectangular laterite enclosure wall measuring 42 by 57 meters, accessed through a single eastern gopura that leads to the inner courtyard. The five prasats, constructed primarily from brick with sandstone doorframes and lintels, rise to heights between 12 and 15 meters, with the central tower being the tallest. The temple’s most remarkable feature is its extensive stucco decoration, which covers the brick surfaces with intricate bas-relief work depicting Hindu deities, celestial dancers, and mythological scenes—a rarity in Khmer architecture where most stucco has been lost to weathering. The stucco work includes depictions of Shiva, Vishnu, Brahma, and various devatas, executed with exceptional skill and preserving details of clothing, jewelry, and facial expressions. The temple’s lintels, carved from sandstone, depict scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, with particular emphasis on Krishna’s exploits. The complex includes two libraries positioned east of the central prasat, numerous subsidiary shrines, and evidence of a sophisticated drainage system. Archaeological evidence indicates the temple served as a regional religious center for the Khmer Empire’s control over the Mun River valley. The site underwent restoration from 1987 to 1995, involving structural stabilization, stucco conservation, and reconstruction of collapsed elements. Today, Prasat Sikhoraphum remains an important site for understanding Khmer stucco art and brick construction techniques, attracting visitors interested in its exceptional decorative preservation and architectural significance. ([1][2])
Location
Sikhoraphum Sub-district, Sikhoraphum District, Surin Province, Thailand(Surin)
Year Built
12th century CE
Heritage Status
National Historical Monument
Visit Information
Visiting Hours
Daily 8:00 AM-5:00 PM.
Entry Fee
Thai nationals: 20 THB; Foreigners: 100 THB; Children under 15: Free.
Citation References
Prasat Sikhoraphum
Thailand Tourism DirectoryAccessed 2025-01-11
Prasat Sikhoraphum: Khmer Stucco Art
Fine Arts Department of ThailandAccessed 2025-01-11
Heritage Status
National Historical Monument
Preservation Status
Good; restoration completed 1987-1995; structures stabilized; stucco conserved; ongoing maintenance. ([1][2])
Historical Context
Prasat Sikhoraphum was constructed in the 12th century CE during the reign of Suryavarman II (1113-1150 CE), as a regional religious center for Shiva worship. The temple served as part of the Khmer Empire’s network of religious centers in the Mun River valley. The site’s exceptional stucco preservation suggests it may have been protected by vegetation or later modifications. The temple was abandoned by the 15th century and fell into ruin. French archaeologist Étienne Aymonier documented the site in 1907. Systematic surveys by the Fine Arts Department began in 1935. Major restoration work was conducted from 1987 to 1995, involving structural stabilization, stucco conservation, and reconstruction of collapsed elements. The site was designated a historical monument. ([1][2])
Archaeological Survey
Étienne Aymonier, Fine Arts Department of Thailand
Architectural Details
Khmer Angkor Wat Style Brick and Stucco Hindu Temple Architecture
Medieval Period
Built by
Khmer Empire (Suryavarman II)
Materials
Brick, Sandstone, Laterite, Stucco, Lime Mortar
Dimensions
Height15m
Width42m
Length57m
Area20000m²
Location Map
Featured Images
Excavation Details
Excavations revealed foundation systems, brick construction techniques, stucco application methods, and ritual deposits.
Restoration Work
Restoration 1987-1995 including structural stabilization, stucco conservation and repair, lintel and pediment conservation, drainage improvements. ([1][2])
Patronage
Fine Arts Department of Thailand
Construction Technique
Construction utilized brick as the primary building material, with bricks fired locally and laid using lime mortar. The quincunx arrangement required precise surveying to achieve geometric alignment. The central prasat employed corbelled vaulting techniques adapted for brick construction, with each course of bricks projecting incrementally. The stucco decoration was applied directly to the brick surfaces, using a mixture of lime, sand, and organic binders, then carved while still pliable to achieve intricate bas-relief work. The sandstone doorframes and lintels were inserted into the brick walls, requiring careful coordination of construction sequences. The laterite enclosure walls employed dry-stone masonry techniques. The drainage system utilized stone channels directing water flow. The stucco work required exceptional skill to achieve fine details while maintaining adhesion to brick surfaces. The temple’s alignment follows Khmer cosmological principles. ([1][2])
Architectural Influences
6 items
Building Techniques
The structural system employs load-bearing brick masonry construction with lime mortar, while sandstone provides doorframes and lintels. The quincunx arrangement creates complex load distribution, with the central tower receiving primary loads. The main prasat utilizes corbelled vaulting adapted for brick, where horizontal courses project incrementally to form false arches. The foundation system consists of stepped laterite platforms distributing loads. The stucco decoration adds minimal structural load while providing protective coating. The enclosure walls employ dry-stone masonry. The sandstone elements provide structural reinforcement at critical points. The drainage system utilizes gravity flow. The brick construction allows for curved surfaces and decorative elements. The stucco work protects brick surfaces from weathering while adding decorative value. ([1][2])
Coordinates
14.944400, 103.800000
Accessibility Info
{"notes":"Flat terrain; accessible pathways; respect sacred areas; protect stucco decorations.","restrooms":"Available at visitor facilities.","wheelchair_accessible":"Partial; pathways accessible but some areas have steps."}
Visitor Facilities
4 items
Best Visit Times
Morning (8:00-11:00 AM) for best lighting on stucco decorations; dry season (November-March) for comfortable weather.
Seasonal Events
2 items
Visitor Restrictions
Respect sacred areas; no touching stucco decorations; no climbing on structures; follow designated pathways.
View Count
2
Is Featured
Yes
Is Published
Yes
Completion Score
75
Completion Status
complete
Created At
2025-11-09T08:49:45.146529+00:00
Updated At
2025-11-09T13:56:38.035+00:00
Quick Overview
📅
Built InMedieval Period
📍
LocationSurin
🏛️
StyleKhmer Angkor Wat Style Brick and Stucco Hindu Temple Architecture
🏆
StatusProtected Heritage
What is Prasat Sikhoraphum Surin?
Prasat Sikhoraphum Surin is a historic Temple located in Surin, Thailand. This Khmer Angkor Wat Style Brick and Stucco Hindu Temple Architecture architectural masterpiece was built during the Medieval Period period and represents significant cultural and historical heritage of Thailand. Prasat Sikhoraphum, located in Sikhoraphum District of Surin Province, represents a significant 12th-century Khmer Hindu sanctuary distinguished by its five brick prasats arranged in a quincunx patter...
Category:
TempleLocation:
Sikhoraphum Sub-district, Sikhoraphum District, Surin Province, Thailand, SurinPeriod:
Medieval PeriodStyle:
Khmer Angkor Wat Style Brick and Stucco Hindu Temple ArchitectureKey Features of Prasat Sikhoraphum Surin
- 1Khmer Angkor Wat Style Brick and Stucco Hindu Temple Architecture architectural style with distinctive design elements
- 2Constructed using Brick, Sandstone, Laterite, Stucco, Lime Mortar, showcasing traditional building techniques
- 3Built using Construction utilized brick as the primary building material, with bricks fired locally and laid using lime mortar. The quincunx arrangement required precise surveying to achieve geometric alignment. The central prasat employed corbelled vaulting techniques adapted for brick construction, with each course of bricks projecting incrementally. The stucco decoration was applied directly to the brick surfaces, using a mixture of lime, sand, and organic binders, then carved while still pliable to achieve intricate bas-relief work. The sandstone doorframes and lintels were inserted into the brick walls, requiring careful coordination of construction sequences. The laterite enclosure walls employed dry-stone masonry techniques. The drainage system utilized stone channels directing water flow. The stucco work required exceptional skill to achieve fine details while maintaining adhesion to brick surfaces. The temple’s alignment follows Khmer cosmological principles. ([1][2]) construction methods
- 4National Historical Monument providing legal protection
- 5Commissioned by Khmer Empire (Suryavarman II), reflecting royal patronage
- 6Current conservation status: Good; restoration completed; structures stable; stucco conserved; ongoing maintenance ensures preservation. ([1][2])
Architectural Features
- 1Pyramidal tower (Vimana) with intricate sculptural decoration
- 2Rectangular sanctum (Garbhagriha) housing the main deity
- 3Columned halls (Mandapa) for congregation and rituals
- 4Ornate gateway (Gopuram) with carved figures
What Makes Prasat Sikhoraphum Surin Special?
- 1Exceptional example of Khmer Angkor Wat Style Brick and Stucco Hindu Temple Architecture architecture
- 2Royal patronage by Khmer Empire (Suryavarman II), reflecting historical significance
- 3Prasat Sikhoraphum represents exceptional preservation of Khmer stucco art, providing rare insights into decorative techniques. The temple’s brick construction demonstrates adaptation of Khmer architecture to local materials. The site’s quincunx arrangement reflects sophisticated understanding of Hindu cosmology. The quality of stucco work demonstrates advanced artistic achievement. The temple’s preservation contributes to understanding Khmer brick architecture. ([1][2])
Visitor Information
How to Visit Prasat Sikhoraphum Surin
| ฿Entry Fee | Thai nationals: 20 THB; Foreigners: 100 THB; Children under 15: Free. |
| 🕐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 Sikhoraphum Surin: Step-by-Step Guide
- 1
Plan Your Visit
Check opening hours and entry fees for Prasat Sikhoraphum Surin. Book tickets online if available to avoid queues. Best visited during early morning or late afternoon.
- 2
Reach the Location
Prasat Sikhoraphum Surin is located in Sikhoraphum Sub-district, Sikhoraphum District, Surin Province, Thailand, Surin. The nearest major city is Sikhoraphum Sub-district. Accessible by road, rail, and air. Use GPS coordinates: 14.9444, 103.8.
- 3
Entry and Guidelines
Entry fee: Thai nationals: 20 THB; Foreigners: 100 THB; Children under 15: Free.. 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 Sikhoraphum Surin. 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 Sikhoraphum Surin by Khmer Empire (Suryavarman II)
20th Century
Conservation and restoration efforts initiated under National Historical Monument
2024-2025
Digital documentation and 3D scanning completed by Inheritage Foundation