Introduction

Buriram, located in northeastern Thailand, is a captivating destination for tourists seeking a blend of rich cultural heritage and modern attractions. Allow Asia King Travel to help you take an insight into this charming destination!

Buriram Overview

Wat Khao Angkhan was built in the 8th or 9th century

Buriram remains one of northeastern Thailand's best-kept secrets, where it usually slips under the travellers' radar and is full of hidden treasures just waiting to be found promising lifetime memories to those in search of real Thailand, rich in heritage and natural beauty.

Buriram will leave warm hospitality combined with saliva-dripping dishes and multifarious attractions, making this place truly representative of captivating Thailand for a true uniqueness in journeys into the heart of the ancient kingdom.

History of Buriram

Buriram is an enchanting province situated in northeastern Thailand, with a multi-century history: it once belonged to the mighty Khmer Empire. The Khmer Empire commanded almost the entire Southeast Asia between the 9th and 15th centuries. Ancient Khmer people left unerasable marks on Buriram, whose magnificent architectural remains still stand today as witnesses to their genius and greatness.

Buriram History

Phanom Rung Historical Park is a remarkable attraction in the province

The stunning remains of the Khmer period include Phanom Rung Historical Park, a beautiful Hindu temple complex atop an extinct volcano. Besides the famous Phanom Rung, other Khmer remains are scattered throughout Buriram Province and have a city of tales to tell about an impressive and interesting past. 

The Best Time to Visit Buriram

March to June would be the hottest period of the year. While the heat is quite intense, it is also considered the best time for outdoor adventures such as hiking or exploring ancient ruins without any disturbance in the form of rain. The famous Bun Bang Fai Rocket Festival is held in May, an exciting event that heralds the rice planting season.

Additionally, many people consider the best time to visit Buriram to be during the cool season, between November and February. It is pleasant, with temperatures between 20° and 30° Celsius. It is cooler and drier, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. 

Buriram weather

The region has the tropical savannah climate

In short, the best time to visit Buriram is during the cool season, from November to February, when the weather is nice and there are many cultural events. Of course, the hot season can be fun for outdoor enthusiasts and lower prices, while the rainy season has its own magic - the city is less crowded and more authentic.

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How to Get to Buriram

To get to this hidden city, one can go through various forms of transportation that may cater to one's preference and travelling class.

The nearest airport to Buriram is Buriram Airport. It has domestic flights from major cities, particularly Bangkok and Phuket. However, international tourists may also consider flying into Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok or Don Mueang International Airport for convenience.

Also, it’s equally easy to access by road, so travellers should enjoy the independence of self-driving or taking the bus, Buriram lies on highways, hence is easy to drive to. The buses have numerous economical services running from Bangkok and other nearby cities.

Buriram weather

The ideal time to visit the province is during the cool and dry seasons

What to Do in Buriram

Discovering Ancient Khmer Ruins

If you're looking for some of the most impressive ancient Khmer ruins in Thailand, Buriram is the place to go. The most celebrated attraction is the breathtaking Phanom Rung Historical Park, which sits on the summit of an extinct volcano. It's renowned for its intricate carvings, detailed bas-reliefs, and unique design that aligns with the sun's rays at the time of the equinoxes.

Another place you might want to check out is Muang Tam Sanctuary, a huge archaeological site covering more than 100 square kilometres. You'll get to see what was once a Khmer city ruin: the temples, reservoirs, and traces of the hydraulic system developed by the Khmer people who lived in this place are in indescribably ruinous condition, and it's amazing to see how clever they were.

Phanom Rung Historical Park

Phanom Rung Historical Park (Credit: Thanyakij)

Experiencing Outdoor Adventures

Buriram is a heaven for outdoor enthusiasts, as there are many exciting things that one can experience amidst the most stunning natural landscapes of the place. 

When spending holidays in Buriram, hiking enthusiasts are spoiled for choices, with various breathtaking trails winding their way around lush forests, rugged mountains, and picturesque waterfalls. A particular highlight is Khao Kradong Forest Park, which offers a network of well-marked trails leading to panoramic viewpoints and serene natural pools just perfect for refreshing dips.

Those who want more leisurely activities outdoors will find Buriram ideal for cycling and mountain biking. Countryside roads and a network of trails through rural villages, rice fields, and remnants of ancient Khmer settlements are great ways to explore this locality.

The entrance of Khao Kradong Forest Park

The entrance of Khao Kradong Forest Park (Credit: Trip Nice Day)

Cultural Immersion

Buriram provides a brilliant opportunity to learn much more about the variegated cultural weave of Isan, Thailand's northeastern region.

As moving through the local market, one hears a cacophony of street food with thick aromas sizzling furiously and musical yet loud calls of vendors trying to outcompete each other. You can even get to the homestay programme to stay with the local families and learn their daily routines, eating habits, and lifestyles. Also, you can learn silk pattern weaving, a great, minute-detail craft passed down through centuries.

Buriram MotoGP in Chang International Circuit

Buriram MotoGP in Chang International Circuit (Credit: Motorsport Guides)

Then, Buriram is a world-renowned destination for motorsports enthusiasts, thanks to the state-of-the-art Chang International Circuit. This world-class racing complex hosts a variety of thrilling events throughout the year, especially one of the highlights of the motorsports calendar in Buriram, the annual MotoGP event, which draws thousands of fans to witness the world's best motorcycle racers compete at breakneck speeds. 

Furthermore, time your visit to catch the local Bun Bang Fai Rocket Festival for a kaleidoscope of colour and sound as ancient traditions spring to life. This festival is an extremely ancient tradition where locals launch homemade rockets high into the sky to appease the gods, hoping to usher in the rainy season in style. 

Bun Bang Fai Rocket Festival

Bun Bang Fai Rocket Festival (Cre: Vietnam Paradise Travel)

Where to Stay in Buriram

In Buriram, all kinds of accommodations are available, from low-budget to high-range options. If you want a real vacation in style, luxury resorts on the city's outskirts will spoil you. Usually, these rest places are equipped with spacious rooms, beautiful gardens, brilliant facilities, spas, golf courses, and dining areas.

Otherwise, you could look for a place to stay near all the attractions you want to see. In this case, the city centre will be a good base, since you want to explore ancient Khmer ruins and cultural spots; the outskirts will be more suitable if you are in search of some peaceful, secluded time.

Hotel in Buriram

Hotel in Buriram (Credit: Booking.com)

What to Eat in Buriram

The lovely people of Buriram have a rich cultural heritage, and their food is a wonderful reflection of this. You'll find a delicious mix of flavours from Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos! 

The local cuisine is full of bold and spicy flavours, with fresh herbs and aromatic spices used to create a deliciously aromatic blend. You simply have to try the “Som Tam”! It's a flavourful green papaya salad with a tangy-sweet dressing and fiery chillies that will knock your socks off!

There's also grilled meat, which is a delight: “Moo Ping” - grilled pork on skewers and “Gai Yang” - grilled chicken. And if you're looking for something refreshing, you'll find it in vibrant tropical fruits like rambutan, mangosteen, and durian.

Moo Ping, grilled pork on skewers (Credit: Shutterstock)

Conclusion

In short, Buriram Province lies waiting with its glorious past, cultural treasures, and modern attractions. The visit to Buriram, Thailand, will surely be memorable, whether wandering around ancient temples, being thrilled by motorsports, or laying back in the warm and diversified culture.

If you are going to plan a detailed trip to Buriram, do not hesitate to contact Asia King Travel to help you fulfil your travel experience perfectly!

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Attraction in Buriram