An interesting Khmer sanctuary, Prasat Phanom Wan is believed to have been built in the 10th century. During the 13th and 14th centuries, a stone building was built over it. From inscriptions found at the site, it is known that the sanctuary was used in the Hindu religion and later became a Buddhist site. Although most of it is in ruins, the layout of the structure that is still clearly visible includes a square main pagoda facing east and a tiered pagoda in front, as well as a path linking the two structures.

To the southwest of the main pagoda is a building of red sandstone called Prang Noi. Inside is a large stone Buddha image. A roofed sandstone walkway and a laterite wall surround the sanctuary. A Gopura (a sanctuary doorway or porch) in the form of a tall tower is situated in all 4 directions. Around 230 meters east of the sanctuary are traces of a moat and an earth hill that was the site of another Khmer building called Noen Oraphim.

Other Khmer ruins within Nakhon Ratchasima include Prasat Hin Nang Ram, Prang Ban Ku and Prang Sida all of which are similar to Phimai ruins but somewhat smaller.

This sanctuary is located in Ban Makha, Tambon Pho, around 15 kilometers from the city on the Nakhon Ratchasima-Khon Kaen Road. A sign on the right provides visitors with additional directions.

Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo

Covering an area of 545 rai (218 acres), the zoo is one of the most modern in Asia. The enclosures are large and landscaped by section to match the habitat of each animal most of which have come from Africa. The most popular animals are penguins, seals, African elephants, rhinoceros, cheetahs, lions, zebras, and giraffes. There is also a reptile building and a hornbill garden. In addition to being an ideal place to study biology, the zoo is a great place for relaxation as the grounds are decorated with lovely flowers. Other than the shuttle services that are provided to transport visitors around the zoo, there are bicycles available for rent. The zoo is open daily between 8.30 a.m. and 4.30 p.m. The fee is 10 baht for children, 30 baht for adults, and 30 baht for four-wheel vehicles. For information, call 0 4435 7355, 0 4421 6251-3 or visit http://www.zoothailand.org/.

The Zoo is located approximately 18 kilometers south of the city on Highway No. 304 (Nakhon Ratchasima-Pak Thong Chai), however, it is also accessible via Highway No. 2310 (approximately 1 kilometer drive). Visitors traveling by bus from the city can take air-conditioned bus No. 1415.

# posted by Aom-ing : 5:37 PM