Buriram was once an integral part of the ancient Khmer kingdom. During this period many fine monuments were constructed in the area. The most well known of these are the magnificent, laboriously restored ruins of Phanom Rung. The ruins are just one historical site in a province which boasts over 60.

        Places of Attraction

Prasat Hin Khao Phanom Rung Historical Park
This magnificent Khmer sanctuary was built on the summit of an extinct volcanoe, Rainbow Hill. The building of the whole complex spanned over 200 years, between the 10th and early 13th centuries,and is constructed of sandstone and laterite. The central sanctuary was built in traditional Khmer style; a symmetrical cruciform plan. The approach to the central sanctuary starts over 400m away to the east and includes a 160m avenue made of laterite and sandstone blocks. At the end of the avenue is the first of three bridges adorned with the mythical Naga (dragon headed serpents). Then a walk up the monumental staircase leads into the sanctuary's eastern gallery.
A greater part of the construction work was completed during the reign of King Suriyavarman II (1113- 1150 AD) and was clearly originally built as a Hindu monument. The entrances to the central sanctuary and other main parts of the complex are decorated with Vaishnava and Shiva deities.
The lintel of the eastern portico of the mondop is the famous Phra Narai, a relief of the Reclining Vishnu (Lord Narayana). The lintel disappeared, eventually turning up at the Art Institute of Chicago. Strong objections from the Thai government and sympathisers in the US led to the return of the lintel in late 1988.

Khao Kradung
This volcanic cone is located amidst the mountainous terrain, 8 km south-east of town. At the peak of the hill, at 300m, the crater has filled with rainwater, creating a  small lake. Overlooking the volcano is a 20m high white Buddha image, Suphatra Borphit, along with an ancient stupa that contains a footprint of the Lord Buddha. The hilltop also offers a perfect vista of the surroundings.

Elephant Village
The elephant has long been a revered animal throughout the history of the Thai nation and long before. This elephant village at Ban Ta Klang, is supported by THAI which has also set-up a museum dedicated to the pachyderms, detailing the important roles they have played through the centuries. All the tools used from capturing the elephants and through their training are on display, along with the traditional dresses of the mahout. On Sundays from 09:30 to 11:00 an elephant show is performed.