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Prasat Hin Muang Tam Buri Ram
Archaeological Site
602 views
Chorakhe Mak (31140), Prakhon Chai District, Buri Ram, Thailand
Added on Sun, Nov 9, 2025 at 2:19 PM
Updated on Fri, Nov 21, 2025 at 4:12 PM
Year Built
c. 950-1050 CE
Period
Medieval Period
Architectural Style
Built By
Suryavarman I
Patronage
Suryavarman I of Khmer Empire
Material Used
Contributed By
Team InheritageAdded Nov 9, 2025
Prasat Hin Muang Tam Buri Ram
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Heritage Overview
Prasat Hin Muang Tam Buri Ram
Prasat Hin Muang Tam, located approximately 8 kilometers southeast of Phanom Rung in Buri Ram Province, represents a unique Khmer temple complex distinguished by its flat concentric layout and exceptional integration of water features symbolizing the cosmic oceans surrounding Mount Meru. The temple, constructed in the late 10th and early 11th centuries CE during the Baphuon period, is dedicated primarily to Shiva, with evidence of Vishnu worship in subsidiary shrines, demonstrating the syncretic nature of Khmer religious practice. The complex features a distinctive quincunx arrangement of five sandstone prasats—one central tower surrounded by four corner towers—all constructed from pink sandstone and laterite, set within a rectangular laterite enclosure measuring 274 by 420 meters. The temple’s most remarkable feature is its four L-shaped ponds positioned at the cardinal directions, each measuring approximately 50 by 100 meters, symbolizing the four oceans of Hindu cosmology and creating a unique architectural expression of cosmic geography. The central prasat rises 15 meters and houses a massive lingam pedestal, while the four corner towers contain smaller shrines. The temple’s lintels and pediments showcase exceptional bas-relief work depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, including the churning of the ocean of milk, Shiva’s cosmic dance, and various deities. The complex includes two libraries positioned east of the central prasat, numerous subsidiary shrines, and a sophisticated drainage system that channels water from the ponds through the temple complex. Archaeological evidence indicates the temple served as a regional religious center complementing the larger Phanom Rung complex. The site underwent restoration from 1984 to 1995, involving structural stabilization and conservation of decorative elements. Today, Prasat Hin Muang Tam remains an important site for understanding Khmer temple architecture and Hindu cosmology, attracting visitors interested in its unique water-based design and exceptional stone carvings. ([1][2])
Historical Context
Prasat Hin Muang Tam was constructed in the late 10th and early 11th centuries CE, likely during the reign of Suryavarman I (1002-1050 CE), as a regional religious center complementing the larger Phanom Rung complex. The temple served as a site for Shiva worship, with evidence of Vishnu worship in subsidiary shrines. The site’s unique water-based design reflects advanced understanding of Hindu cosmology. The temple was abandoned by the 15th century and fell into ruin. French archaeologist Étienne Aymonier documented the site in 1907. Systematic surveys by the Fine Arts Department began in 1935. Major restoration work was conducted from 1984 to 1995, involving structural stabilization and conservation of decorative elements. The site was designated part of Phanom Rung Historical Park. ([1][2])
Location Map
Visit Information
Visiting Hours
Main Site: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Daily.
Entry Fee
Free for all visitors.
Best Visit Times
November to February: This period offers the most pleasant weather with cooler temperatures and less humidity, ideal for exploring the outdoor archaeological site comfortably. April (during Phanom Rung Festival): While hot, visiting during the annual Phanom Rung Festival offers a unique cultural experience in the region, with many visitors combining a trip to Muang Tam. Early morning (6:00 AM - 9:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM): To avoid the midday heat and larger crowds, offering a more serene experience.
Official Website
Go to Official WebsiteArchitectural Highlights
Architectural Style
Period
Medieval Period
Influences
Khmer Temple Architecture, Baphuon Style, Hindu Cosmology, Water Architecture, Southeast Asian Prasat Design, Mount Meru Symbolism
Heritage Status
National Heritage Site
Preservation Status
Good; restoration completed 1984-1995; structures stabilized; ongoing maintenance program. ([1][2])
Conservation Status
Good; restoration completed; structures stable; ongoing maintenance ensures preservation. ([1][2])
Archaeological Survey
Surveyed By
Étienne Aymonier, Fine Arts Department of Thailand
Survey Date
1907, 1935, 1984, 1995
Featured Images
Citation References
No references recorded. Add citations to strengthen verification.
Excavation Details
Excavations revealed foundation systems, pond construction techniques, ritual deposits, and evidence of both Shiva and Vishnu worship.
Restoration Work
Restoration 1984-1995 including structural stabilization, lintel and pediment conservation, pond system restoration, drainage improvements. ([1][2])
Patronage
Suryavarman I of Khmer Empire
Construction Technique
Construction utilized a sophisticated foundation system with laterite blocks forming the base platform, upon which pink sandstone structures were erected. The quincunx arrangement required precise surveying to achieve the geometric alignment of the five towers. The central prasat employed corbelled vaulting techniques, with sandstone blocks precisely cut and fitted. The four L-shaped ponds were excavated to precise dimensions, with laterite retaining walls preventing collapse. The pond construction involved careful engineering to maintain water levels and prevent erosion. The drainage system utilized stone channels carved from laterite blocks, directing water flow through the complex. The lintels and pediments were carved from single blocks of pink sandstone, requiring exceptional skill to achieve the intricate bas-relief work. The false windows characteristic of Khmer architecture were carved directly into the sandstone blocks. The temple’s alignment follows Khmer cosmological principles, with the ponds positioned to reflect the four cosmic oceans. ([1][2])
Architectural Influences
Khmer Temple Architecture, Baphuon Style, Hindu Cosmology, Water Architecture, Southeast Asian Prasat Design, Mount Meru Symbolism
Building Techniques
The structural system employs load-bearing masonry construction with laterite forming the foundation and core walls, while pink sandstone provides the decorative and load-critical elements. The quincunx arrangement creates a complex load distribution pattern, with the central tower receiving primary loads and the corner towers providing structural balance. The main prasat utilizes corbelled vaulting where horizontal courses of sandstone project incrementally to form false arches. The foundation system consists of stepped laterite platforms that distribute loads across the underlying soil. The L-shaped ponds employ laterite retaining walls that resist lateral earth pressure and prevent collapse. The drainage system utilizes gravity flow through stone channels. The enclosure walls employ dry-stone masonry techniques. The false windows reduce material weight while maintaining structural integrity. The pond systems create microclimates that moderate temperature and support vegetation. ([1][2])
Coordinates
14.496177, 102.982239
Accessibility Info
5 items
Visitor Facilities
4 items
Best Visit Times
November to February: This period offers the most pleasant weather with cooler temperatures and less humidity, ideal for exploring the outdoor archaeological site comfortably. April (during Phanom Rung Festival): While hot, visiting during the annual Phanom Rung Festival offers a unique cultural experience in the region, with many visitors combining a trip to Muang Tam. Early morning (6:00 AM - 9:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM): To avoid the midday heat and larger crowds, offering a more serene experience.
Seasonal Events
2 items
Visitor Restrictions
["Visitors are requested to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, especially when visiting sacred areas.","Climbing on ancient structures, walls, or statues is strictly prohibited to preserve the heritage site.","Littering is not permitted; please use designated waste bins.","Photography for personal use is generally allowed, but commercial photography may require prior permission.","Please maintain silence and respect the historical and cultural significance of the site."]
View Count
602
Is Featured
Yes
Is Published
Yes
Completion Score
75
Completion Status
complete
Created By
b609c300-e3e9-42af-8d00-5125af139175
Created At
2025-11-09T08:49:27.337218+00:00
Updated At
2025-11-21T10:42:24.51649+00:00
Related Heritage Sites
What is Prasat Hin Muang Tam Buri Ram?
Prasat Hin Muang Tam Buri Ram is a historic Archaeological Site located in Buri Ram, Thailand. This Khmer Baphuon architecture style, Southeast Asian Prasat architecture style, Khmer architecture style, Indian Temple architecture style architectural masterpiece was built during the Medieval Period period and represents significant cultural and historical heritage of Thailand. Prasat Hin Muang Tam, located approximately 8 kilometers southeast of Phanom Rung in Buri Ram Province, represents a unique Khmer temple complex distinguished by its flat concentric layout and excepti...
Category:
Archaeological SiteLocation:
Chorakhe Mak (31140), Prakhon Chai District, Buri Ram, Thailand, Buri RamPeriod:
Medieval PeriodStyle:
Khmer Baphuon architecture style, Southeast Asian Prasat architecture style, Khmer architecture style, Indian Temple architecture style