The Khmer Empire (circa 800 to mid 1400s) was a powerful Khmer Hindu-Buddhist empire in Southeast Asia which at times ruled over most of mainland Southeast Asia and included parts of modern-day Laos, Thailand, and southern Vietnam. Proof of the Klmer Empire vastness is evidenced by the network of Temples left behind. Thailand has restored many of the Ancient Structures to ensure the history of the birth of their great country is not lost to time. Below are examples of just some of these temples.
The temple complex at Prasat Muang Tam is part of the vast expansion of the ancient Khmer Empire, which originated in Angkor Wat, Cambodia. Somewhat overshadowed by Prasat Pha Nom Rung, Prasat Muang Tam is still a very beautiful and awe-inspiring site that should not be missed. The temple at Prasat Muang Tam is over 900 years old. Its name is derived from its position, "Prasat Muang Tam" literally translated means "a sanctuary located in a lower area".
The main temple area is surrounded by large, man-made ponds that are beautifully maintained and filled with flowering lotuses. The park contains some of the best examples of Khmer architecture in the world and underlines that the area was once an important trade route to the Khmer kingdom.
Perched on the rim of an extinct volcano, Prasat Phanom Rung Historic Park is a jewel in the crown of Northeast Thailand. The fact that the park is situated on top of a volcano may be missed by all except the occasional geologist vacationer; however, at 1,320 feet above sea level, no one will fail to miss the park's magnificent views.
The park is part of the ancient Khmer Empire's reach into Thailand. The temple complex contains the largest and best restored Khmer architecture outside of Cambodia. It took seventeen years for the restoration work to be complete, but now the beautiful Hindu temple can be viewed and admired as it was originally intended.
Throughout the site, each bridge to the temple area is adorned with images of the multi-headed mythical snake "naga". The bridge is said to be a link between our earthly realm and heaven. The naga stand guard on the bridge, thus protecting the gods from any unwanted earthly visitors. The Khmer people lived in Thailand almost one thousand years ago; the architecture of the temple area is testimony to their skill and ingenuity.
Northeastern Thailand (Isaan)
Awesome destinations in Northeastern Thailand. Click here to view a list of Articles about Destinations in Northeastern Thailand.
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