Discover Buriram: 11 Awesome Things to Do and More

11 Best Things to Do in Buriram

One of the most famous tourist attractions in Buriram is Phanom Rung Historical Park, an impressive 10th–13th century Khmer temple complex located on top of an extinct volcano. It’s one of the most impressive and best-preserved Khmer temples in Thailand and one that you should definitely check out while you are here.

The temple is famous for its well-preserved rock carvings, as well as the unique walkway and stairway that leads up to the temple, thanks to its photogenic location. This is something that I have not seen at Khmer ruins anywhere else but here, and I have seen much of the ruins in Thailand and Cambodia.

One of the coolest aspects about this temple is the fact that it was built in a way that aligns with the sun so that during the equinoxes, sunlight illuminates the main sanctuary through all 15 doorways—a phenomenon that draws quite a crowd of local tourists and photographers.

I was there during one of the equinoxes in April when the sun aligns perfectly through the doorway at sunrise, and it was mayhem 😂. There were so many people all waiting to take that one photo where the sun shines through the doorway.

The first gate was full of people and I was unable to see even the doorway itself. Thankfully, as the sun gradually rises, the sunlight will shine through more and more doors, so I was able to run in front of everyone to the second door and capture the photo with minimal crowds before everyone caught on. It was a challenge, but I got the photo I wanted. Yay!

These events happen around twice a year for about 3 days each. Counting both the sunrise and sunset, you should be able to see it 4 times a year. Also, depending on whether you want to see it at sunrise or sunset, you will have to watch out for the announcement on the historical park official Facebook Page.

During these events, you might also have the chance to witness the Phanom Rung Festival, an epic 3-day celebration filled with activities such as ancient markets, parades, and traditional performances.

I had the chance to be there during the ceremony, and it was a blast. During the day, everyone was out and about, enjoying the street food at the ancient market. In the evening, the locals gathered in their beautiful traditional attire to perform traditional dances along the walkway and stairs leading to the temple. It was an incredible experience.

The show ends with a well-choreographed traditional performance by local students, often depicting stories and folklore about Phanom Rung, all dressed in their full, extravagant attire. It was breathtaking.

If you happen to be here during the festival, you are in for quite a treat. The festival is often held for 3 days starting on a Friday night, where you can see the performers practice, and the real show will begin on Saturdays and Sundays.

For a complete guide to visiting Phanom Rung Festival, check out:Phanom Rung Festival: A Complete Travel Guide

You will also get access to the site for free during these events, otherwise the entrance fee to Phanom Rung is 100 THB. The site is open to visitors from 7 AM to 6 PM every day. This is the highlight of Buriram, so be sure to drop by here!

Where to Stay in Buriram?

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HOP INN Buriram

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Fortune Hotel Buriram

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Modena by Fraser Buriram

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2. Check Out the Volcano View at Wat Khao Angkhan

Not many people know this, but Buriram is home to several extinct volcanoes. Phanom Rung is built on top of one, while another famous temple, Wat Khao Angkhan, sits atop another.

This temple and the volcano on which it is built are a bit different, as you can still see signs of the volcano, such as the caldera filled with water near the temple, while at Phanom Rung, it feels more like a normal hill than a volcano.

One of my favorite features of this temple is its red-colored exterior, which I believe was intentionally designed this way. The word “Angkhan” in Thai means Mars, and the exterior looks as though it’s made from Martian rocks. I absolutely love it! I can’t confirm it, but I like to think that’s the case 😂.

The temple’s origins trace back to the Dvaravati period (8th–9th century), as evidenced by the discovery of sandstone boundary markers (sema stones) that once delineated sacred temple grounds. That said, the structure you see today is mostly from the 1980s when it was renovated.

It is a wonderful stop as you explore the area around Phanom Rung Historical site and offers a great vantage point of the whole area. The temple is free to enter, and it opens from 8 AM to 6 PM every day.

3. Admire the Beauty of Prasat Muang Tam

Out of all the Khmer temples I visited in Buriram, Prasat Muang Tam is one of my favorites. The historical site is located on the lower plain of Buriram, right in the center of a small town, which is how it got its name. Muang Tam means “lower town”, a name given by the Thais who built settlements around the ruins.

Constructed during the late 10th to early 11th century, Prasat Muang Tam was dedicated primarily to the Hindu god Shiva, with some evidence suggesting the worship of Vishnu as well. The temple complex is built in the Baphuon architectural style, characterized by intricate carvings and detailed stonework.

The temple features a distinctive arrangement of five towers in two rows, a departure from the typical five-tower quincunx layout seen in other Khmer temples. Fun fact: this place is the only Khmer temple known to have four L-shaped ponds at each corner, which may have served both decorative and functional purposes.

The temple itself is surrounded by ponds where you can stroll around and enjoy the scenery without having to deal with the crowds like at Phanom Rung. I went there in the early morning after sunrise, and I had much of the place to myself.

If you are looking for an impressive Khmer temple you can stroll around and explore without having to deal with the crowds, you are going to love Prasat Muang Tam. The temple is open from 7 AM to 6 PM every day, and the entrance fee is 100 THB per person.

Don’t pay attention to the reviews that complain about the size and price of the place. It’s clear they didn’t take the time to explore before writing their review. While it may appear small from the outside, it’s actually one of the largest and most spacious Khmer temples you’ll find in the area. You’ll truly appreciate its scale the moment you walk through the first gate. Trust me, you’re going to love it!

4. Hike Up Khao Kradong

Another extinct volcano that you can climb is Khao Kradong, located not too far from Buriram City Center. Rising 265 meters above sea level, Khao Kradong has a well-preserved crater that is still visible to this day.

A temple has been built on top of the mountain, while much of the surrounding area has been converted into a forest park with several attractions you can check out. You can either climb up the stairs or drive all the way up to the viewing platform where you can enjoy a stunning view of Buriram City and its surroundings.

The hike does take quite some time as you will have to scale a set of stairs with about 297 steps. There are some monkeys hanging out along the way, so be sure to take care of your belongings if you decide to hike.

At the top, you’ll find a massive golden Buddha statue and a viewing platform where you can take in the beautiful surroundings. Located within the forest park, you can also visit the Kradong Volcano, where a scenic suspension bridge lets you walk across and view the water-filled caldera of this ancient volcano.

The caldera is located along the road that goes up to the top, so you can stop by there for a brief visit before continuing driving up to the viewpoint. The forest park is open from 6 AM to 6 PM and it is free to enter.

5. Go Bird-Watching at Wetland and Sarus Crane Learning Center 💎 Hidden Gem

One of the activities I really enjoy in Buriram is visiting Wetland and Sarus Crane Learning Center located on the bank of Chorakhe Mak Reservoir. You can peacefully and calmly enjoy the view of the wetland while also observing the active bird ecosystem that they are trying to preserve.

You can also see a real flock of Asian Sarus Cranes, also known as red-necked cranes, which were declared extinct in Thailand for the longest time. Thanks to conservation efforts, they were successfully bred and re-released into the wild wetlands of Buriram.

This conservation center was created to help protect and educate the public about these magnificent birds, ensuring they aren’t hunted into extinction again. I truly admire the initiatives here, and the whole area was so calm and peaceful that I ended up spending hours just sitting by the reservoir, quietly watching these birds go about their day.

The staff at the center will also provide binoculars so you can see the Sarus Crane from afar. You can also rent a bike to explore the wetland, but be mindful of the heat as there are no service points along the way. Do not venture out with the bike during the summer when the sun is strong. There is a high risk of heat strokes as there is no shade available.

The center is open from 8 AM to 6 PM every day, and it is free to enter. If you are looking for a calm place to enjoy nature and bird-watching, this is the place to be.

6. Hang Out at Chang Arena

As I prefaced previously, Buriram is quite famous for its local soccer team, Buriram United, and due to the team’s success in the Thai League, you will find many Olympic-class stadiums located here, and one such place is Chang Arena, a massive soccer stadium with a recreational park for events, shopping, and even an F1 track.

For shopping and eateries, you can check out Buriram Castle, an open-air shopping area located within the area premise. Here you will find all kinds of restaurants, shops, and markets you can enjoy.

If you’re looking to pick up some soccer-related souvenirs, be sure to check out the Buriram United Megastore, where you can find Buriram United t-shirts, memorabilia, and more. Even if you’re not familiar with the Thai League, it’s still a fun place to explore and compare our football culture to the European leagues. Ours may not be as flashy, but honestly, the Thai League was almost non-existent before Buriram United came onto the scene.

At Chang Arena, you’ll often find a variety of events happening—from the Grand Prix and Thai GP races to Songkran festivals and local markets—thanks to its massive event space and excellent facilities. If you’re visiting Buriram for a few days, be sure to drop by and check it out.

7. Stroll Around So Krao Walking Street

If you happen to be in Buriram on the weekends, you might want to check out So Krao Walking Street, a bustling night market and walking street located right smack in the center of Buriram City.

Located along Rom Buri Road, just 500 meters from Buriram Railway Station, the market stretches from Chira Road to the Buriram Night Bazaar intersection near Khlong La Lom. With over 300 stalls, you can browse a variety of local products, including OTOP (One Tambon One Product) handicrafts, souvenirs, clothing, and traditional snacks.

It’s also a great way to get a glimpse into local life while browsing for some souvenir-worthy items to take home. The market starts around 4 PM and ends at 9:30 PM, but it’s only open on Saturdays and Sundays—so be sure to plan your visit carefully.

8. Drop By Ban Kruat Stone Quarry Site

For all the history buffs out there, a fascinating place you might want to check out is the Ban Kruat Stone Quarry Site—an ancient quarry where the stones used to build many of these impressive Khmer temples were sourced.

Tucked away in the forest, the site spans a large area, and you can easily get lost in it, which is why, when you arrive, local kids from the nearby temple will often guide you around, pointing out the remnants and traces left by ancient builders centuries ago.

You’ll see cut rocks and chiseled holes scattered throughout the quarry, making you wonder how it was all done without modern tools—an impressive feat, for sure.

The best part? Everything here is free, and you’ll get the chance to interact with the friendly locals at the temple as you explore the ancient site. If you’re a history lover, this is definitely a spot worth visiting.

9. Explore the Lost Khmer Ruins along the Cambodian border

Due to how close we are to the Thai-Cambodian border, you will often find many abandoned Khmer ruins tucked away in the thick forest, waiting for you to explore. Some of those ruins that are worth visiting are Prasat Ta Muean, Prasat Ta Muen Tot, and Prasat Ta Muen Thom, which is technically in Surin province with the last temple being located inside Cambodia.

If you know a bit about Thai-Cambodian relations, you’ll know that our two countries haven’t always gotten along throughout history—much of it due to disputed borders and the many temples located right along the borderline. There have been numerous skirmishes and conflicts in modern times, with the most recent one occurring in 2011.

Since then, the relationship between the two countries has remained relatively calm, leading to several interesting initiatives aimed at healing and strengthening ties.

One such initiative you can experience is Prasat Ta Muen Thom, a temple technically located inside Cambodia. Both countries have agreed to open access to the temple for both Cambodians and Thais without requiring immigration checks.

It is one of the first of its kind, and I hope it paves the way for more sacred sites and temples along the border to be open to both countries. If you’re visiting the quarry, these temples are just 30 minutes apart. So, even though they’re technically in Surin province, I highly recommend checking them out.

For more things to do in Surin, check out:Visit Surin: 10 Incredible Things to Do and More

10. Hang Out at Suan Khun Pu

If you are looking for a quiet and calm place to relax after a long day of exploration, I highly recommend you drop by Suan Khun Pu for a lovely cup of coffee while being surrounded by rice fields.

This lovely cafe is set up in the middle of rice fields, and they have built many wooden paths and pavilions around the rice field where you can sit and enjoy the calmness of Isaan’s countryside.

They offer a variety of drink options, but I personally recommend their Boran Iced Coffee—a traditional Thai-style iced coffee that strikes the perfect balance between strong and sweet, just the way I like it. The café is open daily from 8:30 AM to 6 PM.

11. Try Buriram famous dishes at Local Restaurants 🥘 Place to Eat

Buriram is also a great place to try some of the local variations of famous Thai dishes like braised pork leg and noodles. They have their own variations that utilize local ingredients and spices and take these classic dishes to the next level.

Mi Yum Krasang from Pa Noi Restaurant is definitely my favorite. The dish features delicious handmade noodles, thoroughly mixed with local spices that remind you of Larb, and it’s something you can only try in Krasang District of Buriram.

Another dish you’ve got to try in Buriram is Nang Rong’s Kha Moo (braised pork leg), which you can enjoy at Laksna Restaurant in Nang Rong, a town not far from Phanom Rung Historical Park. Their delicious broth and tender, succulent braised pork leg are absolutely to die for. If you are a foodie, be sure to check out these restaurants as you explore the province.

What to Eat & Drink in Buriram?

Mi Yum is one of my favorite dishes I tried on this trip, thanks to one of my relatives who recommended this place. Pa Noi Mi Yum Krasang, located inside a local school in Krasang, Buriram, is the best place to try Mi Yum.

The restaurant has been in operation for over three generations, and the only dish they serve is the famous Mi Yum—a noodle dish mixed with local spices. The spices are similar to those used in Larb, another popular Isaan dish, but with Mi Yum, handmade noodles are added, along with other locally grown spices for a unique flavor.

The taste and texture is so unique, it’s hard to put into words—you just have to try it for yourself. Fair warning though, it can be quite spicy, so be sure to tell them “Mai Ped” (not spicy) or “Mai Ped Maak” (not too spicy), just in case. 😅

The restaurant is open daily from 8 AM to 4:30 PM and is located in the Krasang District. If you’re looking to try a unique local dish, be sure to check out Pa Noi Mi Yum Krasang—it’s definitely worth a visit!

2. Eat Nang Rong’s Kha Moo (braised pork leg) at Laksna Restaurant

Another dish recommended to me by my relatives who have lived here all their lives is Nang Rong’s Khao Kha Moo (braised pork leg). One of the best places to try it is at Laksna Restaurant.

The restaurant is located in Nang Rong, the closest town to Phanom Rung Historical Park, making it a great spot to stop for lunch after exploring the area. What makes Nang Rong’s braised pork leg dishes stand out are their rich, flavorful broth and the perfectly tender, yet slightly chewy meat.

They don’t have an English menu—which is always a good sign! But don’t worry, just go up and say “Khao Kha Moo with egg”, and you’ll get the delicious dish you see here. The restaurant is open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM.

3. Chill out in the Rice Field with a cup coffee at Suan Khun Pu

If you’re looking for a quiet and peaceful spot to enjoy a cup of coffee surrounded by beautiful and calm rice fields that stretch as far as the eye can see, make sure to stop by Suan Khun Pu.

This lovely cafe is set up in the middle of rice fields, and they have built many wooden paths and pavilions around the rice field where you can sit and enjoy the calmness of Isaan’s countryside.

They offer a variety of drink options, but I personally recommend their Boran Iced Coffee—a traditional Thai-style iced coffee that strikes the perfect balance between strong and sweet, just the way I like it. The café is open daily from 8:30 AM to 6 PM.

How to Get to Buriram?

By Plane: AirAsia recently opened a new domestic route from Bangkok to Buriram, so you should be able to get here quite easily without having to drive here yourself. For the best price, check out Skyscanner or Expedia.

By Train: You can also take a train from Bangkok’s Aphiwat Central Terminal Station to Buriram Train Station. There are about 12 trains running between the 2 cities with a variety of classes you can choose from, ranging from a third-class seat to a second-class seat with AC or fan, with prices ranging from 226 THB to 471 THB respectively. The journey should take about 5 – 7 hours depending on which train you choose. You can see the schedule and book online here.

By Bus: Another great way to get to Buriram is by buses and vans. They often leave from Morchit Bus Station, operated by several companies. The price ranges from 370 to 500 THB and takes between 5 – 7 hours depending on the bus size and the traffic. You can find the schedule and book online here.

By Car: If you have a car or are renting one, you can also drive from Bangkok to Buriram. It’s a pretty straightforward journey, thanks to the newly built M6 Highway, which takes you directly to Korat. From there, it’s about an hour’s drive to Buriram. The entire trip should take around 5 hours. You can rent a car through DiscoverCars.

How to Get Around Buriram?

By Car: Honestly, the best way to get around Buriram is by renting a car. Some of the main attractions are quite spread out, and the Isaan heat is no joke. While renting a motorbike is possible, it’s not the most comfortable option—plus, you’ll often be riding on highways, which can be dangerous, especially for inexperienced riders.

For the most convenient experience, I highly recommend renting a car and driving yourself. You can rent one directly from Buriram Airport or pick one up at Bangkok’s airports and drive to Buriram. You can book a rental through DiscoverCars.

What to Pack for Buriram?

As you may already know, I am an advocate of light traveling, and indeed, packing light for a journey like this is a unique art form. Here are some packing tips for your upcoming trip to Buriram, Thailand:

• Walking/Hiking Shoes: With all the walking and possible hiking during your travel, a comfortable pair of shoes is a must. I recommend the Timberland 3-Eye Classic Boat Shoes that are my go-to pair for long strolls and hikes.
• Breathable Shirts: Given the potential for hot weather, pack a few breathable shirts for your outdoor adventures.
• Shorts/Jeans: Anticipate lots of walking during your travels? Be sure to pack some breathable shorts and a pair of Levi’s jeans for when the weather cools. For women, leggings are excellent for both hot and cold climates, so consider packing some as well.
• Outer Shell Jacket: An outer shell jacket is great for windy or rainy conditions. I highly recommend the Columbia Watertight Jacket (for women). It’s lightweight, breathable, and even comes in a cool orange color.
• Microfiber Towel: A Microfiber towel is the ideal backpacker’s towel due to its lightness, quick drying, and compressibility.
• Swim Suits: A swim trunk is a must-pack item if you are planning to visit Buriram, Thailand in the summer, just in case there is a body of water you can jump in.
• Camera: You should also pack a good camera for your trip so that you can capture all the beautiful experiences you might have. I recommend the Sony a7R V camera together with the Sony 24-70mm f2.8 GM II lens, which is probably the highest-performance camera and lens combination you can get right now.
• Power Bank: Keep your electronics charged on the go with a 20,000+ mAh Power Bank.
• Water Bottle: The Hydro Flask Trail Water Bottle is a great insulated water bottle to have with you in cities or on hiking trails. It is lightweight and can keep your water cold or warm for more than 12 hours. It’s a total game-changer.
• Universal Adapter: You’ll need just one universal adapter to plug in your electronics in any country you visit.
• Packing Cubes: Packing Cubes will help you save space in your backpack and keep all your belongings organized.
• Daypack: The Langly Alpha Globetrotter is my go-to everyday camera backpack. It’s large enough to carry all my travel gear, and it comes with plenty of slots and pouches. Plus, it’s stylish as hell!
• Large Backpack: You will need a large backpack to carry all of your stuff. I recommend the Osprey Atmos AG 65L backpack. With excellent weight distribution and a lifetime guarantee, you can’t go wrong with Osprey.

For more information on what I pack in my backpack for this trip, check out: My Packing List: 60 Travel Essentials.

Further Reading for Northeastern Thailand

Looking for more information about your trip to Northeastern Thailand? Here is a collection of articles about Northeastern Thailand that you might find useful:

• As the gateway to Isaan, you can’t travel to the region without passing through Nakhon Ratchasima or Korat for short. To help guide you through the province, check out 10 Impressive Things to Do in Korat (Nakhon Ratchasima).
• One of the best times to visit Phanom Rung is during the Phanom Rung Festival, where you’ll find parades, light and sound shows, and more. Here’s a complete guide to visiting the Phanom Rung Festival: Phanom Rung Festival: A Complete Travel Guide
• Passing through Surin and wondering what to do? Check out this travel guide: Visit Surin: 10 Incredible Things to Do and More
• Curious about the coolest things to do in Si Saket? Check out: Discover Si Saket: 11 Amazing Things to Do and More
• If you’re passing through Ubon Ratchathani and only have time to explore the city, be sure to check out: Ubon City Guide: 10 Best Things to Do and More
• Planning to cross the land border between Thailand and Cambodia to visit Siem Reap? You might want to stop by Sa Kaeo, a Thai border province full of awesome things to do. For the full guide, check out: Exploring Sa Kaeo: 8 Best Things to Do and More
• Interested in learning more about the unique music of Isaan? Check out this guide: The Sounds of Isaan: Thai Psychedelic Music Unknown to Many – A Guide to Mor Lam.
• Looking for a complete travel guide to Southeast Asia? You should check out our 3-Month Backpacking Itinerary for Southeast Asia.
• Looking for an itinerary for Thailand? Check out One Month Itinerary for Thailand.
• If you are traveling to Thailand, it is important for you to know what you should and shouldn’t do. Here are 10 Tips for Traveling in Thailand.
• Thai Street Foods are among the best in the world, and to help guide you through the street food cuisine of Thailand, be sure to check out the 15 Best Street Foods in Thailand to Try.
• Learning a bit of Thai phrases will go a long way for you when you visit Thailand. Here are 15 Thai Phrases You Should Know.
• Photos are worth a thousand words, but what is worth more than photos? A video. Here are travel videos I made for Thailand: Timeless Thailand, a journey into the North of Thailand, Long Tail Thailand, exploring the beautiful south of Thailand, and taking it slow with Slowed Down Bangkok travel video.
• Wondering where to go after Thailand? How about continuing on to Malaysia, Myanmar, or Indonesia?
• Want to explore other parts of Thailand? How about exploring Northern Thailand, Southern Thailand or Central Thailand?
• For all articles about Thailand, visit the Thailand Travel Guide page.
• Looking to travel to Southeast Asia? Check out all my articles about Southeast Asia here: Southeast Asia Travel Guide page.
• You can see all my Asia-related articles here: Asia Travel Guide page.
• For more of my travel guides like this, visit my Destinations page.