Phan Hin Ancient Monument is located in Ban Khok Khwang, Nong Phrong Subdistrict, Si Maha Phot District, Prachinburi Province. Standing quietly among fields and a peaceful community, the laterite ruins remain as evidence of an ancient civilization that once flourished here more than a thousand years ago. The monument is a large square structure, each side measuring about 15.5 meters and rising 3.5 meters high. A portico extends out from each of the four sides, reflecting the Hindu-Brahmanical cosmological belief that Mount Meru is the center of the universe surrounded by the four continents.

 

Archaeologists estimate that Phan Hin was built during the 12th–14th Buddhist centuries (around 1,200 years ago) during the reign of King Jayavarman I of the Chenla Kingdom, the foundation of the later Khmer Empire. The spread of Chenla’s political and religious influence reached into what is now eastern Thailand, leaving behind sanctuaries such as this one as testimony of their presence.

 

The name “Phan Hin,” meaning “stone tray,” derives from the toppled pedestal of a deity statue in the middle of the ruins that resembles a tray used for offerings. Excavations conducted by Silpakorn University in 1966 confirmed that the monument once enshrined an image of the Hindu god Vishnu, as archaeologists discovered a fragment of an arm holding a conch shell. A large cylindrical laterite pillar about one meter in diameter was also uncovered, believed to be the base for a statue. In addition, traces of postholes suggest that wooden structures and a light roofing material were once part of the sanctuary.

 

The historical significance of Phan Hin was also recognized by King Rama V, King Chulalongkorn, who visited the site in 1908 during his travels. Today, although much of the monument has collapsed, the essential form remains visible, making it an important site for archaeological study and a proud cultural landmark for the local community.

 

Traveling to Phan Hin is relatively simple. From the Si Maha Phot District Office, continue toward Ban Khok Khwang for about one kilometer, then turn into a smaller road for another 600 meters to reach the site. The best times to visit are in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven ground and to refrain from climbing or touching the ruins directly to help preserve the site.

 

The importance of Phan Hin lies in many aspects. Artistically, it reflects Khmer-style architecture with laterite construction and four porticos. Religiously, it demonstrates the worship of Vishnu and cosmological beliefs of the Hindu-Brahmanical tradition. Socially, it strengthens the identity of the local community by connecting them with their historical roots. Although time has caused significant deterioration, the monument still retains great value and deserves continued preservation through measures such as water drainage management, controlled visitor access, and community education.

 

A visit to Phan Hin can also be combined with other historical attractions in Prachinburi Province, such as Sa Morakot Ancient Pond, Khok Mai Den Ancient Monument, and Prachinburi National Museum. Exploring these sites together offers a deeper experience that connects both nature and history.

 

Phan Hin Ancient Monument is not just a pile of old stones but rather a voice from the past, telling stories of civilizations that once thrived on Thai soil. Visiting the site is not only a journey of tourism but also a step back in time to touch the roots of human culture and belief.

 

 

A: It is estimated to have been built during the 12th–14th Buddhist centuries, about 1,200 years ago.

 

A: The sanctuary once enshrined a statue of Vishnu, as indicated by the fragment of an arm holding a conch.

 

A: The name comes from the toppled pedestal in the center that resembles a stone tray.

 

A: From Si Maha Phot District Office, travel about 1 kilometer toward Ban Khok Khwang and turn another 600 meters to reach the monument.

 

A: It is a registered ancient monument. Though partly ruined, the essential structures remain visible.