Prasat Ban Thanon Hak is classified as a small-scale religious sanctuary rooted in ancient Khmer culture. Its primary construction material is laterite combined with sandstone, a common feature in temple groups built between the 15th and 16th Buddhist centuries, corresponding roughly to the early Baphuon style. This structure is contemporary with many other stone sanctuaries found throughout the Lower Northeast region of Thailand (Isan). The sanctuary was dedicated to Vaishnavism, a Hindu sect that regards Vishnu (Narayana) as the supreme deity.

The temple's layout features a Prang Prathan (principal tower) positioned centrally on a stepped, indented square base. The Prang faces east, in line with traditional Hindu cosmological beliefs, and originally housed the Garbhakriha (the sacred inner chamber where the main deity idol was placed). The principal prang was enclosed by a boundary wall made of laterite, featuring Gopuras (entrance pavilions) on only two sides: the east and the west, with the north and south sides being solid walls. The entire complex was originally surrounded by a U-shaped moat or pond. Today, only the foundation and the remnants of the enclosure walls remain, as the superstructure of the tower likely collapsed over time or was partially dismantled. The simple yet robust architectural style points to a transitional period of the Khmer Empire before its zenith.

What significantly elevates the importance of Prasat Ban Thanon Hak is the invaluable archaeological discovery made during its restoration and excavation by the Fine Arts Department ** in 1982 (B.E. 2525)**. Excavations unearthed a substantial cache of gold jewelry and ornaments in remarkably good condition. This hoard included gold bracelets, earrings, necklaces, and other finely crafted, intricate pieces. The discovery of this gold treasure trove underscores the wealth and the profound religious significance of the local community in this area during the time of the Khmer Empire. Today, these precious artifacts are preserved and displayed at the Phimai National Museum, not far from the site itself, solidifying Prasat Ban Thanon Hak's status as a critical source for studying the art history and economic life of the Khmer civilization on the Khorat Plateau.

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How to Get There

• Getting there: The best way to get there is by private car, as the castle is located in Nong Bun Mak District, quite far from Nakhon Ratchasima City. Take the route towards Nong Bun Mak District, and the castle is located within the grounds of Wat Ban Thanon Hak.

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Travel Tips

• It's best to research the castle's history in advance to understand the significance of the remaining foundations.

• Visit during the morning or evening to avoid the intense heat.

• The site is located within temple grounds, so dress appropriately.

• For those interested in the artifacts discovered at the castle, you can visit the Phimai National Museum, which houses its collection.

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Admission Fees:

• No admission fee

Opening Hours:

• It can be visited during the daytime or according to the opening and closing hours of Wat Ban Thanon Hak.