The Phanom Rung Stone Sanctuary was once an important place for Brahman preists conducted Hindu religious rites. The sanctuary underwent supplementary construction for many eras. Derived from the Khmer language, ‘Phanom Rung’ means ‘Large Hill’, and faces eastward, towards the center of the former Khmer Kingdom. The main prang (tower), centrally located within the inner complex grounds, features an intricate carving of the Hindu Narai God etched on the pediment atop the front entrance. This piece was the center of controversial since a missing part that had broken off had appeared in a museum located overseas and many years of negotiation was involved in its eventual return.

The Phanom Rung Stone Sanctuary Historical Park is located in Buri Ram province, North East of Thaniland.

Words by TAT. http://www.tourismthailand.org/