Ancient Stone Quarry Ban Gruat in Ban Gruat District is like a vital jigsaw piece that completes the grand picture of stone sanctuary construction within the Khmer Empire. This site on the Phanom Dong Rak mountain range is a source of high-quality sandstone, particularly pink sandstone and creamy yellow sandstone, which served as the primary materials for constructing Phanom Rung and Muang Tam sanctuaries. The "wow" factor here lies in the stone-cutting traces scattered across the vast rocky plateau. We can observe large rectangular pits where blocks were being extracted; some remain attached to the original bedrock, suggesting that the quarrying process was abruptly halted for some mysterious reason in the past.

In terms of engineering, this quarry teaches us about the ingenuity of ancient people. They would select the finest stone layers, carve deep grooves around the intended block, then drive "wooden wedges" into pre-drilled holes and pour water over them. The resulting immense pressure from the expanding wood would cause the stone to split into rectangular blocks of the desired size. Standing amidst these extraction marks will make you marvel at their perseverance, as each stone weighs several tons and had to be transported from the mountaintop down to the plains below to be assembled into magnificent sanctuaries.

For tourism students, walking through the quarry is an experience of the most raw and authentic atmosphere. You will clearly see marks from chisels and metal tools left on the stone floor. This area is not just about rocks, but it is a lesson in ancient labor management and logistics, as the distance from here to Phanom Rung is great and filled with natural obstacles. Visiting here is a tribute to the "anonymous craftsmen" behind the grandeur of Khmer civilization.

The surroundings of the quarry are shaded by forests and uniquely shaped boulders. Some spots resemble large lightboxes, which is the origin of the name "Khao Klong Fai" (Lightbox Hill). A short trek to explore the quarry will make you feel like an explorer discovering a historical treasure. It is a place that offers tranquility and invites you to imagine the sound of stone-cutting echoing across the mountains a thousand years ago.

• Private Car: From Ban Gruat District, take the route to Sai Taku Subdistrict, heading towards the Thai-Cambodian border (Highway 224). There are signs pointing to the Khao Klong Fai Ancient Stone Quarry along the way. Please note that the final stretch of the road may be slightly rough as it passes through a forested area.

• Public Transport: Traveling by public bus is quite difficult. It is recommended to hire a tour vehicle from Ban Gruat District or Phrakhon Chai District for convenience and safety.

• Preparation: You should wear sneakers or shoes with good grip on stone surfaces, as some spots can be slippery or steep. Additionally, bring enough drinking water since the open rocky plateau can be very hot.

• Key Observation: Look for the unfinished stone-cutting marks to study the technique of using wedges to separate the stone. This will give you a deeper understanding of the sanctuary construction process.

• Safety: As this is an area near the border, you should strictly follow the instructions of the officers and avoid wandering off the designated paths.

Admission Fee: 

• Free

Opening Hours:

• Open Daily: 08:30 AM – 04:30 PM. (It's best to arrive before closing time to allow time for sightseeing and to return before nightfall.)