Exploring Phimai & Korat

Nahkon Ratchasima or Korat was the largest city in Isaan, or so that is what I was told but more than that was Phimai, a small town nearby that has many historical and cultural value. From Yasothon, it made sense to go to Phimai first then Korat. Initial plan was to save these both places to be visited after I went another round trip into Cambodia but since I now had to burn time, zig zagging around Isaan and just taking my own time to visit places slowly was the way to go.

Phimai had a few things carefully preserved. For one the Phimai historical park is maintained in a very good manor. Supposedly the miniature version of Angkor Wat, it is believed that Phimai was the place where they experimented on the architecture of Angkor Wat before it was actually built. Like a test scale model. 

Phimai Historical Park

Phimai Historical Park

Phimai Historical Park

The more intricate and well preserved historical artifacts however would need to be seen in the Phimai National Museum round back of the historical park. I nearly gave it a pass, but was glad I spend the money to enter in the end. These intricate carvings would have never survive the environment if not preserved

Phimai National Museum

Phimai National Museum

To be honest, at Phimai, I was more interested in Sai Ngam, the largest Banyan Tree in Thailand. To South East Asian, the banyan tree is a holy tree to be respected. In which religion I am unsure but when seen, it always have an aura tied to the stories of little mischievous people spirits and the lore varies around South East Asia. I end up going back to Sai Ngam park every day for a walk but respectfully leave by sundown. 

Sai Ngam Park - Thailand

Korat was next and as expected a large busy city. Nothing much to do here but wander around, visit the shopping center, see some movies and enjoy the perks of modern comforts. One good thing about big cities is that you can always spot the special food stalls that stands out from the rest. The extra busy hands, the longer queue, the more bustling food stalls. 

Downtown of Nahkon Ratchasima

Korat - Foodstall

Korat - Raw Fish Salad

Traveled on: Mar 2019