Thao Suranari (Thao Suranari Monument), originally named Khunying Mo (or Ya Mo), was the daughter of Mr. Kitti and Mrs. Bunma. Born in 1771 during the reign of King Taksin the Great, she married Phraya Palat (Thongkham), the deputy governor of Nakhon Ratchasima (a position that also included the governor of Nakhon Ratchasima), earning her the title "Khunying Mo." Her talents in administration and military affairs earned her the respect and admiration of the people of Korat.

The Heroic Revival of Korat (1826)

The most significant event that earned her the title of heroine was the 1826 incident (during the reign of King Rama III) when Chao Anuwong of Vientiane led an army to seize Nakhon Ratchasima, claiming to be aiding Siam in its fight against the British. He rounded up the people of Korat, including Khunying Mo and her husband, and took them to Vientiane.

While being rounded up to Thung Samrit, a resting point for the army, Khunying Mo conspired with a group of Korat prisoners. Using her intelligence and wit:

• Delaying the Battle: She tricked the captives into flattering the Lao soldiers by offering to cook a feast and secretly selling them alcohol to intoxicate them.

• Action: With the Lao soldiers unprepared for battle and their weapons out of reach, Khunying Mo signaled the remaining men and captives to fight and reclaim their weapons.

• Victory: The battle was a resounding success, freeing the townspeople and driving out the army holding the captives, effectively halting Chao Anuwong's plans to round up the captives. This significantly boosted the morale of the townspeople and facilitated the Siamese Royal Army's subsequent subjugation of Chao Anuwong.

Establishment and Death

When King Nangklao (Rama III) learned of this heroic act in 1827, he graciously bestowed upon Khunying Mo the title of Thao Suranari (a royal title bestowed upon women) as her highest honor.

Thao Suranari died in 1851 at the age of 81. After her death, her husband, Phraya Palat (Thongkham), built a chedi to enshrine her ashes at Wat Phra Narai Maharat in Korat.

Thao Suranari Monument

To commemorate her heroic deeds and serve as a center of faith for the city's people, the Thao Suranari Monument was constructed in 1934. It was designed by Professor Silpa Bhirasri and cast by Phraya Bharatracha.

• Distinctive Features: The statue is a blackened bronze figure in a standing position, facing west (the direction of Vientiane's former location). Her right hand rests on her hip, and her left hand holds her personal sword.

• Location: The monument is located in front of Chumphon Gate, the western gate of Korat. According to the beliefs of the Korat people, passing under the Chumphon Gate Arch is considered auspicious, and there is a saying that "whoever passes under Chumphon Gate will return to Korat again."

This monument is more than just a memorial; it also stands as a symbol of the courage, patriotism, and unity of the people of Nakhon Ratchasima to this day.

• Private Car: Travel along Mittraphap Road into Nakhon Ratchasima City, heading towards the Thao Suranari Monument in the heart of the city.

• Public Transport: From Nakhon Ratchasima Bus Terminal 1 or 2, you can easily take a songthaew (minibus) or taxi/motorcycle taxi to the monument, as it is the city's central location.

• Best time to pay respects: Visit during the morning or evening to avoid the intense heat.

• Vow fulfillment: If a wish comes true, people often perform Khorat songs or dances to fulfill their vows, which are regularly performed.

• Nighttime activities: The monument is beautifully lit up at night, and the surrounding area features a market selling souvenirs and food.

• Annual events: Every March and April, a grand celebration commemorates Thao Suranari's victory.

Admission Fees:

• There is no admission fee, and you can pay your respects at any time.

Opening Hours:

• Open for worship 24 hours a day.