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Prasat Ta Mueang Surin
Temple
503 views
(32140), Prasat District, Surin, Thailand
Added on Sun, Nov 9, 2025 at 2:20 PM
Updated on Fri, Nov 21, 2025 at 4:12 PM
Year Built
1050 CE (11th century)
Period
Chola Period
Architectural Style
Built By
Khmer Empire
Patronage
Khmer Kings of Angkor
Material Used
Contributed By
Team InheritageAdded Nov 9, 2025
Prasat Ta Mueang Surin
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Heritage Overview
Prasat Ta Mueang Surin
Prasat Ta Mueang, located in Prasat District of Surin Province, represents an important 11th-century Khmer Hindu temple complex distinguished by its well-preserved lingam remnants and evidence of extensive Shiva worship. The temple complex, constructed during the Baphuon period in the 11th century CE, is dedicated to Shiva, with the main prasat housing a massive lingam pedestal and numerous subsidiary shrines containing smaller lingams, demonstrating the importance of lingam worship in Khmer religious practice. The complex features a rectangular laterite enclosure wall, accessed through gopuras that lead to the inner courtyard containing the main prasat, libraries, and numerous subsidiary structures. The main prasat, constructed from pink sandstone and laterite, rises approximately 16 meters and features a square plan with porches extending in cardinal directions. The temple’s lintels and pediments, carved from pink sandstone, depict scenes from Hindu mythology, particularly Shiva-related themes, including the cosmic dance, lingam worship, and various deities. The complex includes two libraries positioned east of the main prasat, numerous subsidiary shrines, and evidence of a sophisticated drainage system. Archaeological evidence indicates the temple served as an important regional religious center for Shiva worship, with the concentration of lingam remnants suggesting it may have been a particularly significant site for lingam rituals. The site has undergone restoration since the 1980s, involving structural stabilization and conservation of remaining decorative elements and lingam remnants. Today, Prasat Ta Mueang remains an important site for understanding Khmer lingam worship and Shiva temple architecture, attracting visitors interested in its well-preserved lingam remnants and historical significance as a center of Shiva devotion. ([1][2])
Historical Context
Prasat Ta Mueang was constructed in the 11th century CE during the Baphuon period, serving as an important regional center for Shiva lingam worship. The temple was abandoned by the 15th century and fell into ruin. Systematic surveys by the Fine Arts Department began in the 20th century. Restoration work has been conducted since the 1980s. ([1][2])
Location Map
Visit Information
Visiting Hours
Main Site: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Daily.
Entry Fee
Free for all visitors.
Best Visit Times
November to February: This period offers cooler, dry weather (20-30°C), making it the most comfortable time for exploring the outdoor ruins. Early morning (8-10 AM) or late afternoon (3-5 PM) are recommended to avoid the midday heat and larger crowds. Consider visiting during the Surin Elephant Round-up in November for a broader cultural experience in the region.
Official Website
Go to Official WebsiteArchitectural Highlights
Architectural Style
Period
Chola Period
Influences
Khmer Temple Architecture, Baphuon Style, Hindu Shiva Lingam Worship, Southeast Asian Prasat Design
Heritage Status
National Heritage Site
Preservation Status
Good; restoration completed; structures stabilized; lingam remnants preserved. ([1][2])
Conservation Status
Good; restoration completed; structures stable; lingam remnants preserved. ([1][2])
Archaeological Survey
Surveyed By
Fine Arts Department of Thailand
Survey Date
1980
Featured Images
Citation References
No references recorded. Add citations to strengthen verification.
Excavation Details
Excavations revealed foundation systems, lingam pedestals, and evidence of extensive Shiva worship.
Restoration Work
Restoration since 1980s including structural stabilization and lingam conservation. ([1][2])
Patronage
Khmer Kings of Angkor
Construction Technique
The construction of Prasat Ta Mueang involved a meticulous sequence, beginning with the quarrying of massive pink sandstone and laterite blocks. Builders likely employed ramps, levers, and possibly elephants to transport and position these heavy elements. Initial rough dressing of stone occurred at the quarry, with final precision carving and fitting performed *in situ* after placement. Dry masonry was the primary method, with blocks precisely cut to interlock without mortar, relying on gravity and friction for stability. Brick was utilized for internal structures or subsidiary shrines, often finished with stucco for decorative detailing, showcasing a sophisticated understanding of material application and sequential assembly.
Architectural Influences
Khmer Temple Architecture, Baphuon Style, Hindu Shiva Lingam Worship, Southeast Asian Prasat Design
Building Techniques
Prasat Ta Mueang exemplifies advanced Khmer building techniques, notably the extensive use of dry-stacked masonry. This method required exceptional precision in stone cutting and fitting, often incorporating hidden tenons and mortises or dovetail joints to enhance structural integrity, particularly in lintels and doorframes. The corbelling technique was fundamental for spanning openings and creating vaulted chambers, allowing for large interior spaces without true arches. Intricate bas-reliefs and decorative elements were frequently carved directly onto the sandstone blocks after their placement, demonstrating a mastery of both structural engineering and artistic finishing.
Coordinates
14.595008, 103.404944
Accessibility Info
5 items
Visitor Facilities
4 items
Best Visit Times
November to February: This period offers cooler, dry weather (20-30°C), making it the most comfortable time for exploring the outdoor ruins. Early morning (8-10 AM) or late afternoon (3-5 PM) are recommended to avoid the midday heat and larger crowds. Consider visiting during the Surin Elephant Round-up in November for a broader cultural experience in the region.
Seasonal Events
2 items
Visitor Restrictions
["Visitors are advised to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as a sign of respect for the sacred site.","Remove shoes before entering any designated sacred areas or remaining temple structures, if indicated.","Maintain respectful behavior, avoid loud noises, and refrain from touching or climbing on ancient structures to preserve their integrity.","Photography is generally permitted, but visitors should be mindful and respectful of the site's historical and cultural significance, especially during any local observances."]
View Count
503
Is Featured
Yes
Is Published
Yes
Completion Score
75
Completion Status
complete
Created By
b609c300-e3e9-42af-8d00-5125af139175
Created At
2025-11-09T08:50:59.225+00:00
Updated At
2025-11-21T10:42:24.51649+00:00
Related Heritage Sites
What is Prasat Ta Mueang Surin?
Prasat Ta Mueang Surin is a historic Temple located in Surin, Thailand. This Khmer Baphuon architecture style, Southeast Asian Prasat architecture style, Nagara architecture style, Hindu Temple architecture style architectural masterpiece was built during the Chola Period period and represents significant cultural and historical heritage of Thailand. Prasat Ta Mueang, located in Prasat District of Surin Province, represents an important 11th-century Khmer Hindu temple complex distinguished by its well-preserved lingam remnants and evidence of exte...
Category:
TempleLocation:
(32140), Prasat District, Surin, Thailand, SurinPeriod:
Chola PeriodStyle:
Khmer Baphuon architecture style, Southeast Asian Prasat architecture style, Nagara architecture style, Hindu Temple architecture styleArchitectural Features