Buriram Parks

Amphoe Muang

Khao Kradong Park

is on Khao Kradong which is an extinct volcano. The mouth of the volcano is now
a small pool which has water throughout the year. About 6 km. from the city on the Buriram - Prakhon Chai Road, the park can be reached via 2 ways which are by car on a concrete road lined with Buddha images in various postures and by a stairway which climbs to a level of 265 meters above sea level. On the mountain top sits Phra Suphatbophit, a large image sacred to the Buriram people. Adjacent to it is an ancient pagoda which houses a replica of Lord Buddha's footprint.

The park is under the supervision of the Wildlife Conservation Office of the Royal Forestry Department. Buriram Provincial Authorities have developed it into a major tourist spot by conserving nature and the environment in pristine condition. Numerous tourists come here on weekends.

Kradong Reservoir

is in front of Kradong Mountain. A road on the left of Khao Kradong takes visitors to Bunyanusat Scouts Camp and a zoo. The place is ideal for relaxation and picnics. The reservoir offers a magnificent view of the Phra Suphatthara Bophit Buddha image stop Khao Kradong. A replica of the Holy Footprint is also placed here.

Huai Talat Reservoir and Birds Park

is about 10 km. Along the Buriram-Prakhon Chai Road in Tambon Sakae Sum. The reservoir holds water the year round. The most important thing about the reservoir is that over 200 species of birds inhabit it such as Waterfowls, spring chicken and others. Nearby is the largest bird cage in the area with over 200,000 birds belong to Mr. Sawat Kochaseni. The compound is shady and there is food for sale in the evening. This is a perfect place for people seeking quiet relaxation. Visitors can also be taken to view the many birds there.

Amphoe Chalerm Prakiat

Phanom Rung Historical Park

was a very important place of worship in the Lop Buri period. About 1,000 years old, it is situated atop a mountain 1,320 feet above sea level. The sanctuary is in Tambon Ta Pek. To get to the sanctuary, go along Highway No.24 and turn right at Ban Tako and continue on for 12 km. (There are motor-cycle taxi from Ban Toko to Prasat Phanom Rung, the Fare is about 170 Baht for return) on an asphalt road which can be driven on in any weather.

Phanom Rung Historical Park is on the rim of an extinct volcano; lava is still scattered around the top. On the opposite side of the crater is an air force Radar Station. In former times the crater was a natural Baray or reservoir. Phanom Rung is a Hindu Shrine of the Sivaite sect with Shiva as the ruling god; the monument has been in continuous use from the 9th to the 12th C.A.D.

The first thing the visitor will see is a fabulous staircase which has three platforms leading to the first pavilion and then there is a stone path which has small posts along its sides leading to the Naga bridge with late rite pavilions. At the end of the Naga bridge there are five platforms to the Temple. There is another terrace at the end of Naga bridge which leads to the inner space of the monument and there is another Naga bridge between the monument and the principal Prang. The principal Prang has the same kind of Mandapa as Prasat Phimai. Entering the Prang one will see the great Shiva god in nataraja (dancing) style. The top of the fronton and the lower part of the lintel consist of the well-known reclining Vishnu relief.

Phanom Rung Historical Park opens everyday from 06.00-18.00 hrs. Admission fee is 40 Baht per person. For further information tel. 044-631711.

Amphoe Nang Rong

Thung Laem Reservoir

is beside Highway No.24, 4 km. from Amphoe Nang Rong at the Ban Hak intersection. This is a small reservoir which has been developed into a tourist spot before tourists visit Phanom Rung Sanctuary. A beautifully decorated pavilion offers visitors shelter. In the dry season, numerous Teals live here and birdwatchers can get a close look at them.

Amphoe Non Din Daeng

Lam Nang Rong Dam and Khlong Manao Reservoir

About 200 meters from the monument lies the Development for Security Project Area of H.M. the King which includes the large reservoir Lam Nang Rong and the Khlong Manao reservoir, which are used for agriculture and relaxation. Visitors can rest aboard rafts on the reservoirs, swim, take boat trips to watch flocks of Teals.