Buriram: Where Ancient Gods Meet Modern Speed
Welcome to Buriram, the province that smashes all your expectations of rural Thailand. One minute you're exploring a 1,000-year-old Khmer temple on top of an extinct volcano, and the next you're hearing the roar of a MotoGP bike at a world-class racetrack.
Known as the "City of Joyful Reign," Buriram is a mind-blowing mix of ancient history and supercharged modern energy. If you're looking for a destination with a split personality in the best way possible, you've found it.
What’s the Vibe in Buriram?
Forget sleepy villages. Buriram is a province on the move, offering a unique travel cocktail.
- Ancient Wonders: It's home to some of the most spectacular Khmer ruins outside of Cambodia, without the Angkor Wat crowds.
- Sporting Mecca: This is Thailand’s undisputed capital of sport. Whether you're into football or motorsport, the energy here is electric.
- A Taste of Isan: Experience the warm hospitality and spicy, flavour-packed food of Northeast Thailand.
Buriram's Can't-Miss Attractions
Get ready to shift gears from ancient history to high-octane thrills.
Climb to the Heavens at Phanom Rung Historical Park
This is the main event and it is absolutely breathtaking. Perched on the rim of an extinct volcano, this impeccably restored Khmer temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Walking the grand causeway towards the main sanctuary during sunrise feels like stepping into another world. It’s one of Thailand's most magnificent landmarks, and you won’t forget it.
Find Serenity at Prasat Muang Tam
Just a few kilometres away lies Phanom Rung's beautiful little sister, Muang Tam. This "lowland castle" is a flatter, more intimate temple complex surrounded by four stunning L-shaped ponds covered in lotus flowers. It’s incredibly peaceful and photogenic, making it the perfect follow-up visit.
Feel the Roar at the Chang International Circuit
From ancient stone to modern asphalt! This state-of-the-art racetrack is home to the Thailand MotoGP and a host of other international racing events. Check the schedule before you go—if you can catch a race, the atmosphere is absolutely insane. You can even visit on non-race days to see this impressive facility up close.
Join the Sea of Blue at a Buriram United Football Match
Buriram isn't just a city; it's a football club with a city built around it. The passion for Buriram United is legendary. Catching a home game at the "Thunder Castle" stadium is an incredible cultural experience, even if you’re not a huge football fan. The energy of the crowd is infectious!
Hike a Volcano at Khao Kradong Forest Park
You can't visit Buriram without climbing its most famous volcano! Don't worry, it's long extinct. A road takes you right to the top, where you'll find a massive seated Buddha, a cool suspension bridge walkway for great photos, and panoramic views of the city below.
How to Get There
Buriram is well-connected. It has its own airport (Buri Ram Airport - BFV) with flights from Bangkok. You can also get there easily by bus or train from major cities.
To explore the temples, which are about an hour outside the city, renting a car or a motorbike is your best option. It gives you the freedom to hop between the ancient and modern worlds on your own schedule.
