Out of Norm Travels - Thailand Adventures 2014: Part 1 of 2 - Trip down to Phanom Rung Historical Park, Isaan, Thailand

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This is part 1 of my Thailand adventures in 2014 when I made a trip down to Phanom Rung Historical Park. So what's so special about this place?

This is located in the northeastern Isaan, Buri Ram province of Thailand. Phanom Rung (Thai: พนมรุ้ง), or full name, Prasat Hin Phanom Rung (Thai: ปราสาทหินพนมรุ้ง – Phanom Rung Stone Castle is the largest and the most beautiful Khmer site in Thailand that was built over the 10th to 13th centuries from sandstone and laterite and dedicated to Lord Shiva, a supreme Hindu deity.

It is said that the architectural design of this complex symbolizes Mount Kailash, his heavenly dwelling located in India.

It consists of 3 naga bridges. Going through the walkway, you can reach the first naga bridge. There are 70 sand stone posts on either side of the walkway. The third naga bridge takes the visitors to the main sanctuary. Here is a photo of the layout of the temple grounds.

 
After restoring the temples for close to 2 decades, the Thai government submitted this historical site to UNESCO to be listed as the world heritage site in 2005.
 
Here are some photos converted using BnW taken using Infrared modified camera to share:

I was told that I should consider revisiting this site when the sun rays strike through all 15 doorways, 4 times a year. This phenomenon occurs at the morning sunrise sometime around the first week of March and September and during the sunset of the first week of April and October. I am sure it is going to be an amazing experience and have added it to my bucket list.

The expansiveness of this magnificent and impressive grounds truly warrants a visit if you are visiting Ubon Ratchathani, Isaan region in Thailand.

taken using iPhone panoramic
Until the next time, onto the world and beyond!

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