The Sikhu Sandstone Historical Quarry is a critical archaeological site that unveils the historical background of the magnificent Khmer civilization in Thailand's northeastern region (Isaan). This site is situated on a small sandstone hill, rich in light gray to white sandstone belonging to the Phu Phan Formation of the Khorat Group of rocks. The stone here possesses properties of high strength, durability, and a pleasing color, making it the most favored construction material for building grand stone sanctuaries during the 15th–18th Buddhist centuries.

This area was not just a simple quarry but essentially a "prefabricated stone factory" of the ancient era, showcasing the advanced geological knowledge and quarrying engineering skills of the craftsmen of the time. The most prominent traces are the deep, large rectangular channels and markings visible on the rock surface, some extending for several meters. These marks indicate that massive blocks were carefully extracted for transportation.

The quarrying technique used involved driving iron wedges or chisels repeatedly along the desired line of cut until a fracture was initiated (a process known as quarrying), allowing the gigantic blocks to be separated and removed. Clear chisel marks can still be seen on the surfaces of the cut stone, attesting to the precision of the ancient workmanship. These relics have allowed archaeologists to reconstruct the entire process, from selecting the rock face and carving the trenches to the complex process of moving multi-ton stone blocks.

The sandstone from the Si Khiu Quarry has been identified as a primary raw material used in the construction of several nearby Khmer temples, most notably Prasat Mueang Khaek (in Sung Noen District), which lies relatively close to the site. It is also highly probable that some of the stone was transported further along the ancient routes that connected Isaan with the central areas of the Khmer Empire (modern-day Cambodia), establishing this quarry as a strategic economic and cultural hub.

Due to its profound geological, historical, and archaeological importance, the Si Khiu Stone Quarry has been registered as part of the Khorat Geopark, an area that has received UNESCO designation for its outstanding and valuable geological heritage, promoting educational and ecotourism activities. Visiting this site is thus not merely observing old remnants but connecting the past with the present through the very stones that built the great civilizations of the Lower Northeast.

• Private car: Travel from Bangkok towards Nakhon Ratchasima Province. When you reach Sikhiu District, look for the sign at kilometer markers 206-207 (about 2.5 km from the Sikhiu Interchange towards Pak Chong District). The stone cutting site is on the same side as Khao Thong Wanaram Temple.

• Best time to visit: Visit during the morning or evening, as the area is open and can get very hot during the day.

• Education: This is a great place to learn about geology, archaeology, and history. Take the time to read the information signs to enhance your understanding.

• Respect: Some of the surrounding areas may be temples or religious sites. Dress appropriately and respectfully.

• Photography: A great photo opportunity is the geometric stone carvings, evidence of ancient human labor.

Admission Fees:

• Free admission

Opening Hours:

• It is open daily during daytime (generally 8:00 AM–5:00 PM), but hours may be flexible as it is an open space along the road.