1. How can I get to Prasat Hin Phimai from Bangkok?
To get to Prasat Hin Phimai from Bangkok, you can take a bus or drive. By Bus:
1. Go to one of the main bus terminals in Bangkok – Mo Chit Northern Bus Terminal, Ekamai Eastern Bus Terminal, or Sai Tai Mai Southern Bus Terminal.
2. Look for a direct bus heading to Phimai. These buses usually leave early in the morning and take approximately 6-7 hours to reach Phimai.
3. The bus will drop you off at Phimai Bus Terminal. From there, you can take a tuk-tuk or motorbike taxi to the temple.
By Car:
1. Take Highway 1 (Phahonyothin Road) north out of Bangkok.
2. After Saraburi Province, merge onto Asian Highway 2 towards Korat/Nakhon Ratchasima.
3. Continue on Asian Highway 2 until reaching Nakhon Ratchasima city.
4. Follow signs for Highway 206 and turn left onto it.
5. Follow Highway 206 for approximately 44 km until reaching Phimai town.
6. Prasat Hin Phimai is located in the center of town and is easily accessible by car.
Note: It is also possible to hire a private car or taxi from Bangkok directly to Phimai, but this will be more expensive.
2. What are the opening hours of Prasat Hin Phimai?
Prasat Hin Phimai is open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.
3. Is there an entrance fee for Prasat Hin Phimai?
Yes, there is an entrance fee for both Thai nationals and foreigners. The fee for Thais is 40 baht per person while the fee for foreigners is 100 baht per person.
4. Are there any guided tours available at Prasat Hin Phimai?
Yes, there are guided tours available at Prasat Hin Phimai which can be arranged at the entrance of the temple. The fee for a guided tour is approximately 100-200 baht per person.
5. Can I climb the ruins at Prasat Hin Phimai?
No, climbing is not allowed on the ruins at Prasat Hin Phimai for safety and preservation reasons.
6. Is there accommodation near Prasat Hin Phimai?
Yes, there are several accommodation options in and around Phimai town such as resorts, guesthouses, and hotels.
7. What other attractions are there near Prasat Hin Phimai?
Nearby attractions to visit include Sai Ngam Banyan Tree Park, Ban Prasat Archaeological Site, and Khao Yai National Park.
2. Is there a direct bus or train from Nakhon Ratchasima to Prasat Hin Phimai?
Yes, there are direct buses and trains available to travel from Nakhon Ratchasima to Prasat Hin Phimai.
Bus: There are multiple bus companies that offer direct buses from Nakhon Ratchasima to Prasat Hin Phimai. The journey takes approximately 1-2 hours, depending on the type of bus you choose. You can catch a bus from the Nakhon Ratchasima Bus Terminal (also known as Korat Bus Terminal) to Prasat Hin Phimai. The earliest bus departs at around 6:00 AM and the latest at around 7:00 PM.
Train: There is also a direct train available from Nakhon Ratchasima Railway Station to Prasat Hin Phimai. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes and trains depart every hour or so starting from around 6:00 AM until around 9:00 PM. This option may be more convenient for some travelers as the train station in Nakhon Ratchasima is located closer to the city center compared to the bus terminal.
3. Are there any car rental services available near Prasat Hin Phimai for self-driving tourists?
Yes, there are several car rental services available near Prasat Hin Phimai for self-driving tourists. Some reputable options include Avis, Budget, and Hertz. It is recommended to book in advance and check for any specific requirements or restrictions before renting a car.
4. What is the best mode of transportation to reach Prasat Hin Phimai if I am on a tight budget?
The best mode of transportation to reach Prasat Hin Phimai on a tight budget would be to take a local bus or minivan from Bangkok. The journey takes approximately 6-7 hours and costs around 200-300 Baht per person. You can also consider taking a train from Nakhon Ratchasima if you are already in the area, which would cost around 40 Baht per person. Alternatively, you can also rent a motorbike or bicycle to travel around the area at a lower cost.
5. Can I take a taxi or tuk-tuk from Nakhon Ratchasima to Prasat Hin Phimai and how much does it cost?
Yes, you can take a taxi or tuk-tuk from Nakhon Ratchasima to Prasat Hin Phimai. The cost may vary depending on the type of vehicle and your negotiation skills, but it generally ranges from 500-1000 baht for a one-way trip. It is recommended to confirm the price with the driver before starting the journey.
6. Are there any guided tours available to visit Prasat Hin Phimai if I don’t want to go alone?
Yes, there are guided tours available for visitors who do not want to explore Prasat Hin Phimai alone. These tours can be booked through tour agencies, hotels, or at the ticket office at the site itself. The trained guides will provide information about the history and significance of the structures in the temple complex. Audio guides are also available for rent at the site.
7. How far is Prasat Hin Phimai from Nakhon Ratchasima and how long does it take by different modes of transportation?
Prasat Hin Phimai is approximately 60 kilometers from Nakhon Ratchasima, also known as Korat. The travel time and distance will vary depending on the mode of transportation used.
By car or motorbike, it takes about 1 hour to reach Prasat Hin Phimai from Nakhon Ratchasima. The route can be taken via Highway 206 followed by Highway 2 to Prasat Hin Phimai.
By bus, it takes around 1.5-2 hours to reach Prasat Hin Phimai from Nakhon Ratchasima. There are direct buses from Nakhon Ratchasima Bus Terminal to Phimai Bus Station, which is located near the historical park.
By train, it takes approximately 2 hours to reach Prasat Hin Phimai from Nakhon Ratchasima. There are several trains that run between the two cities daily, with a stop at Phimai Railway Station. From there, visitors can take a short tuk-tuk ride (around 10 minutes) to the historical park.
Overall, the travel time and distance may vary depending on traffic and weather conditions. It is recommended to check the schedules and plan accordingly before making the trip.
8. Can I rent a bicycle near Prasat Hin Phimai and explore the area on my own?
Yes, there are several bicycle rental shops near Prasat Hin Phimai where you can rent a bike for the day and explore the surrounding area at your own pace. Prices may vary, so it’s best to inquire at multiple shops before making a decision. Additionally, some hotels or guesthouses in the area may also offer bike rentals for their guests. It’s important to note that cycling in Thailand can be challenging due to traffic and road conditions, so make sure to wear a helmet and exercise caution while riding.
9. Is it safe to drive a scooter or motorcycle around Prasat Hin Phimai, and are there any rental services available nearby?
It is generally safe to drive a scooter or motorcycle around Prasat Hin Phimai as long as you follow traffic rules and wear proper safety gear. However, the roads may be narrow and some areas may have uneven surfaces, so it is important to be cautious while driving.
There are a few rental services available in the nearby town of Phimai, such as Siam Motorcycles and MJC Motorbike Rental. It is recommended to do some research and read reviews before renting from a specific company. You may also want to inquire about insurance coverage and make sure the vehicle is well-maintained before renting.
10. What is the best time of the day to visit Prasat Hin Phimai in terms of weather and traffic conditions?
The best time to visit Prasat Hin Phimai in terms of weather and traffic conditions is in the morning, between 8am and 10am. This allows you to avoid the heat of the day and the peak traffic hours. Additionally, there will be fewer visitors during this time, allowing you to explore and enjoy the site more comfortably.
11. Are there any public transportation options available within walking distance from Prasat Hin Phimai for visiting nearby attractions?
Yes, there is a local bus station located near Prasat Hin Phimai that offers transportation to nearby attractions such as Ban Prasat Mueang Tam and Phanom Rung Historical Park. The bus fare is affordable, and the buses run regularly throughout the day. Tuk-tuks and taxis are also available for hire near the temple.
12. How do I navigate through the archaeological site of Prasat Hin Phimai? Are there any maps or signs available?
The archaeological site of Prasat Hin Phimai is well-maintained and relatively easy to navigate. There are signs throughout the site that provide information about the various structures and their historical significance.
Visitors can also pick up a map at the ticket booth, which highlights the main points of interest and provides a suggested walking route through the site. The map is available in both English and Thai.
In addition, there are staff members stationed at various points throughout the site who can provide information and assistance to visitors.
Overall, navigating through Prasat Hin Phimai should not be difficult as long as you follow the designated paths and pay attention to the signs.
13. Is there parking available near Prasat Hin Phimai for private vehicles? If yes, is it free or paid?
Yes, there is parking available near Prasat Hin Phimai for private vehicles. It is a paid parking lot, with rates starting at 20 Baht per hour.
14. Can I book a boat tour on Mun River near Prasat Hin Phimai, and where can I do that from?
Yes, you can book a boat tour on Mun River near Prasat Hin Phimai. You can book it from the Prasat Hin Phimai Visitor Center or through a local tour agency in Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat). The boat tour will take you along Mun River, passing by beautiful scenery and landscapes, and stop at various spots for you to explore the riverside temples and ancient ruins. It is a unique way to experience the history and culture of the area.
15. What are the popular spots along Mun River that can be visited from Prasat Hin Phimai by boat?
There are no popular spots along Mun River that can be visited by boat from Prasat Hin Phimai as the river is not navigable for large boats. However, visitors can take a short boat ride on the lake within the park to view the temple from a different angle. Additionally, there are smaller tributaries of the Mun River that can be explored by kayaking or canoeing, providing access to some remote and scenic areas in the region.
16. Are there any ferries available to cross Mun River and reach the other side of Prasat Hin Phimai?
I could not find any information about ferries specifically for crossing the Mun River at Prasat Hin Phimai. However, there are bridges and roads that allow for easy access to the other side of the river. Some visitors have also mentioned taking boats or rafts across the river as part of a tour or excursion. It is best to check with local tour operators or at the visitor center for more information on current ferry services in the area.
17. Can I hire a private taxi or van for a day trip from Nakhon Ratchasima to Prasat Hin Phimai and back?
Yes, it is possible to hire a private taxi or van for a day trip from Nakhon Ratchasima to Prasat Hin Phimai and back. You can contact local taxi or tour companies in Nakhon Ratchasima or book one through online travel booking sites. Private taxis or vans provide convenience and flexibility as you can choose your own schedule and stops along the way. However, keep in mind that this option may be more expensive than public transportation.
18. How much time should I allocate for a visit to Prasat Hin Phimai including transportation and sightseeing?
For a comprehensive visit to Prasat Hin Phimai, it is recommended to allocate at least half a day. This includes transportation time from nearby cities like Korat and sightseeing within the temple complex. If you want to thoroughly explore all the ruins and learn about their history, it is recommended to spend a full day at the site.
19. Are there any audio guides available in different languages at Prasat Hin Phimai for tourists who don’t speak Thai?
Yes, there are audio guides available in several different languages at Prasat Hin Phimai. These include English, French, German, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, and Thai. Audio guides can be rented at the ticket booth for a small additional fee.
20. Is it possible to camp near Prasat Hin Phimai, and what are the rules and regulations for camping there?
Yes, it is possible to camp near Prasat Hin Phimai. However, the camping area is located outside of the historical park and is managed by a private company called Phimai Forest And Resort.
The rules and regulations for camping at Prasat Hin Phimai include:
1. Permits must be obtained from the Department of Fine Arts in advance. These can be obtained by contacting them directly or through the tour desk at Phimai Forest And Resort.
2. Campers must strictly follow the designated camping area and are not allowed to set up tents anywhere else.
3. Campfires are strictly prohibited in order to protect the historical site.
4. Cooked food or drinks are also not allowed inside the camping area.
5. All trash must be properly disposed of in designated bins.
6. Visitors are expected to keep noise levels to a minimum out of respect for other campers and nearby residents.
7. Pets and firearms are not allowed inside the camping area.
8. The use of drones or any kind of aerial photography equipment is prohibited without prior permission from the Department of Fine Arts.
9. Overnight parking is only allowed at designated areas.
10. Check-in time for camping is 2:00 PM and check-out time is 11:00 AM on the following day.