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Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00

 

Khao Loan Temple Ruins (Prasat Khao Lon) is an ancient Khmer sanctuary situated on a low hilltop in Ban Charoensuk, Thap Rat Subdistrict, Ta Phraya District, Sa Kaeo Province. The site stands at the foothill of Sakae Krong and represents one of the easternmost traces of Khmer civilization’s expansion into Thailand. Built mainly from baked bricks on a sandstone base, it reflects the late Khmer architectural style dating back to the 11th–12th centuries CE.

 

The name “Khao Loan” (literally “Bald Hill”) comes from its treeless appearance, which makes the temple visible from afar. Located within Wat Prasat Khao Loan, the site is currently under the supervision of the Fine Arts Department. The gentle slopes and scenic view from the top make it a peaceful spot, especially during sunrise and sunset when sunlight bathes the ancient bricks in a warm glow.

 

Archaeological evidence indicates that the sanctuary once consisted of four prangs (towers) arranged along the east–west axis. Today, only the central prang remains in fair condition, while the other three have collapsed. The remaining structure, built from laterite and sandstone, demonstrates the distinctive simplicity and strength typical of the Khlang period of Khmer art.

 

At the sandstone doorway of the main tower, ancient Khmer inscriptions can still be seen. They are believed to record offerings or religious dedications. The temple likely served as a Hindu shrine, later adapted for Mahayana Buddhist worship, reflecting the transitional period of faiths in the region. Its design and materials resemble those of nearby sanctuaries such as Khao Noi Temple and Sdok Kok Thom, both important centers of ancient Khmer culture in the lower northeastern region of Thailand.

 

Surrounding the temple are remnants of ancient buildings and structures, including two large ponds northeast of the sanctuary connected by an ancient road. These ponds may have been used for purification rituals before entering the temple or as water sources for the ancient community that once settled around the hill. Pottery shards and old bricks scattered across the area support the existence of a former settlement.

 

Architectural studies suggest that Khao Loan Temple Ruins were part of a broader network of religious sites connected through ancient trade and pilgrimage routes running from Sdok Kok Thom to Phanom Rung in Buriram. It may have functioned as a resting place or minor religious center for travelers journeying between major Khmer sanctuaries.

 

Today, Khao Loan Temple Ruins is a registered national monument managed by the Fine Arts Department. Visitors can explore the site, which offers both cultural insight and panoramic views of Ta Phraya’s countryside. It has become a popular destination for history enthusiasts, students, and travelers interested in exploring the traces of ancient Khmer civilization in eastern Thailand.

 

Getting There From Ta Phraya District, take Highway No. 3068 (Ta Phraya–Buriram route) for about 28 kilometers to Ban Charoensuk. At the foothill, follow the sign to Wat Prasat Khao Loan, where visitors can park and walk up to the ruins in about 10–15 minutes. The trail is not steep and is suitable for most visitors.

 

From Sa Kaeo City, take Highway No. 348 toward Ta Phraya, then turn onto Highway No. 3068 toward Ban Charoensuk. The total distance is about 95 kilometers, taking around 1.5 hours by car. Private vehicles are the most convenient mode of transport, but travelers can also take a Sa Kaeo–Ta Phraya bus and hire a local vehicle to reach the temple area.

 

Nearby attractions include Sdok Kok Thom Temple Ruins, another large Khmer site from the same period, and Khao Khiao Cave Temple, a scenic viewpoint perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration in the tranquil Ta Phraya area.

 

 

A: It dates back to the late Khmer period (11th–12th century CE) and was built as a Hindu religious sanctuary, later adapted for Mahayana Buddhist worship.

 

A: Only the central prang remains relatively well-preserved, while the other towers have collapsed over time.

 

A: Visitors can see ancient Khmer inscriptions, two old ponds, traces of an ancient road, and a scenic viewpoint atop the hill.

 

A: Take Highway No. 3068 from Ta Phraya toward Ban Charoensuk for about 28 kilometers, then walk a short distance uphill to reach the ruins.

 

A: No, entrance is free, and the site is open to visitors daily during official hours.

 

A: Early morning and late afternoon offer the best weather and lighting for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.

 

A: Nearby are Sdok Kok Thom Temple Ruins and Khao Khiao Cave Temple, both within a 20-kilometer radius.

 

A: The site is managed by Thailand’s Fine Arts Department as a registered national monument.