Things To Do
in Prakhon Chai

Prakhon Chai is a charming district located in Buriram Province, Thailand, known for its rich cultural heritage and serene countryside. It is famous for its ancient Khmer ruins, particularly the Prasat Mueang Tam, which attract history enthusiasts and tourists alike. The area is also characterized by lush rice fields and a warm, welcoming local community.

Prakhon Chai offers a unique blend of traditional Thai culture and modern conveniences, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Sites
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the ancient ruins of Prasat Mueang Tam, where you can explore the intricate carvings and learn about Khmer architecture.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the nearby Phanom Rung Historical Park, a significant Khmer temple complex featuring stunning stone structures and breathtaking views.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a stroll around the local night market, where you can sample street food and shop for handicrafts.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the local temple, Wat Prakhon Chai, to experience the local spiritual culture and admire the architecture.

afternoon
:

Take a bike ride through the scenic rice paddies and countryside, soaking in the tranquility of rural life in Thailand.

evening
:

Head back to town for dinner at a popular eatery, followed by a cultural performance if available, showcasing traditional music and dance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at Local Restaurant$2-5
🍹Soft Drink$0.50
🚌Local Bus Fare$0.30
🏨Night at Budget Hotel$15-25
🚕Taxi Ride (short distance)$1-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage with ancient ruins and temples.
  • Friendly and welcoming local community.
  • Affordable cost of living and dining options.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier for those not speaking Thai.
  • Public transportation can be less frequent and reliable.
  • "สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ" - Hello
  • "ขอบคุณครับ/ค่ะ" - Thank you
  • "ราคาเท่าไหร่" - How much is this?
  • "ช่วยด้วย!" - Help!
  • "ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Prakhon Chai

Visit one of these nice places.

Prasat Mueang Tam

A stunning Khmer temple complex with intricate stone carvings, perfect for capturing ancient architecture.

Phanom Rung Historical Park

Offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.

Wat Prakhon Chai

A picturesque temple with unique architecture and a serene atmosphere, ideal for capturing the essence of local spirituality.

Culinary Guide

Food in Prakhon Chai

Prakhon Chai offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect the flavors of northeastern Thailand.

Prakhon Chai Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Som Tum

A spicy papaya salad made with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, and a tangy dressing.

Must-Try!

Khao Niew Mamuang

Sticky rice served with ripe mango and a drizzle of coconut milk.

Larb

A minced meat salad mixed with fresh herbs, lime juice, and chili.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Prakhon Chai Night Market

A vibrant market where you can find a variety of street food options, local snacks, and fresh produce.

Local Street Stalls

Scattered throughout the town, these stalls offer delicious local snacks and meals at affordable prices.

Climate Guide

Weather

Prakhon Chai experiences a tropical climate with three distinct seasons: a cool and dry winter, a hot summer, and a rainy season. Temperatures generally range from 20°C (68°F) in winter to over 35°C (95°F) in summer. The rainy season brings heavy monsoon rains, particularly from June to October, making it crucial for travelers to prepare for wet weather during this time.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Monks

Always show respect to monks; women should not touch them or sit next to them.

Removing Shoes

It is customary to remove shoes before entering homes and temples.

Greeting with a Wai

A traditional Thai greeting involves pressing your palms together and bowing slightly.

Safety Guide

Safety

Prakhon Chai is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to follow common safety precautions. Keep personal belongings secure, avoid isolated areas after dark, and be cautious when using ATMs. It is also wise to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Tipping in Prakhon Chai

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but some places also accept credit cards; ensure to carry cash for street food and small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (November to February)

Cooler temperatures make it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring historical sites.

Summer (March to May)

Expect hot weather; it's best to plan indoor activities or visit during early mornings or late afternoons.

Rainy Season (June to October)

Frequent rain can disrupt travel plans; however, the landscape becomes lush and beautiful.

Festive Season

Visit during local festivals for vibrant celebrations, traditional performances, and delicious food.

Nightlife Guide

Prakhon Chai at Night

Prakhon Chai has a laid-back nightlife scene primarily centered around night markets and local eateries. While there are no large clubs, visitors can enjoy live music performances, casual bars, and socializing with locals in a relaxed atmosphere. Seasonal festivals also add vibrancy to the night scene, with cultural shows and food stalls.

Hiking in Prakhon Chai

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Phanom Rung Trail

A scenic trail leading up to the Phanom Rung Historical Park, offering breathtaking views and a chance to explore nature.

Khao Kradong Forest Park

Features various trails through lush flora and fauna, suitable for hiking and enjoying the natural surroundings.

Airports

How to reach Prakhon Chai by plane.

Buriram Airport (BFV)

Located approximately 40 km from Prakhon Chai, this airport offers domestic flights to Bangkok and other destinations, making it the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Prakhon Chai is relatively walkable, especially around the town center where most attractions, restaurants, and markets are located. Sidewalks may not always be available, so be cautious when walking near roads. The compact layout allows visitors to explore many sites on foot, and cycling is also a popular mode of transport.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Thai Buddhists

The majority of the population in Prakhon Chai, who practice Theravada Buddhism and participate in local religious traditions.

Ethnic Khmers

A significant demographic group in the area, descendants of the ancient Khmer civilization, known for their cultural heritage and festivals.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Muay Thai

A traditional martial art and sport that is popular in Thailand, often showcased in local events.

Football (Soccer)

Widely followed and played in the region, with community teams often participating in local leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Prakhon Chai is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include local buses and songthaews (shared taxis), which are affordable but may not run on a strict schedule. Visitors should be cautious when crossing streets, as motorbikes and scooters are common.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Prakhon Chai.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be modified to suit vegetarian diets; just ask your server.

Halal Food

Certain restaurants cater to Muslim dietary laws, ensuring no pork is served.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Prakhon Chai include local clinics and a hospital that provides basic medical services. For more serious health concerns, larger hospitals in Buriram city are equipped to handle emergencies. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers international medical care.

Discover Thailand

Read more in our Thailand 2025 Travel Guide.

Thailand Travel Guide