Things To Do
in Buri Ram
Buriram is a vibrant city in northeastern Thailand, blending ancient history with a modern, friendly atmosphere. The province is home to grand Khmer-era ruins such as Phanom Rung and Mueang Tam, set against a welcoming Isan backdrop. In town you’ll find lively markets, a football-strong culture with Buriram United, and a growing food scene that celebrates bold Isan flavors.
With efficient road links and warm hospitality, Buriram makes a rewarding base for exploring the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Phanom Rung Historical Park, where you can marvel at the ancient Khmer architecture and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. As the sun rises, take a peaceful stroll through the sacred site, soaking in the intricate carvings and historical significance. Don't forget to capture photographs of the sunrise illuminating the temple's sandstone structures.
After lunch, continue your journey to the nearby Prasat Muang Tam, a beautifully preserved temple complex that offers a glimpse into the region's rich history. Wander through the serene gardens and reflect on the ancient rituals that once took place here. The afternoon light creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for quiet contemplation and exploration.
As the sun sets, head back to Buri Ram town and enjoy a traditional Thai dinner at a local restaurant, savoring regional dishes like Som Tum and Pad Thai. After your meal, take a leisurely walk around the town center, where you can experience the vibrant local life and perhaps catch a cultural performance. End your evening with a refreshing drink at a local café, soaking in the warm ambiance.
Begin your day by visiting the Buri Ram Morning Market, where local vendors offer an array of fresh produce, handmade goods, and street food delights. Engage with friendly locals as you sample traditional snacks and immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere. This vibrant market is a perfect place to experience the daily life of Buri Ram residents.
After exploring the market, take a short trip to the nearby village of Ban Kham, famous for its local handicrafts. Spend the afternoon learning traditional weaving techniques from skilled artisans and perhaps try your hand at creating your own piece. This hands-on experience not only supports local craftspeople but also deepens your understanding of the region's culture.
In the evening, return to Buri Ram for a cooking class where you can learn to prepare authentic Thai dishes. Under the guidance of a local chef, you'll explore the use of fresh herbs and spices, culminating in a delicious meal that you can enjoy with your fellow classmates. After dinner, relax at a nearby bar or café, reflecting on the day's experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🧃Drink at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🛵Motorbike rental (per day) | $6-12 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-25 |
| 🛍️Souvenir or street snack | $2-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Isan culture and history
- Affordability of food and accommodation
- Access to Khmer-era ruins and nature close to the city
- Limited nightlife compared to Bangkok or Phuket
- Distances to major beaches require longer drives or flights
- "Sawasdee ka / Sawasdee krub" - Hello (female/male)
- "Khob khun ka / Khob khun krub" - Thank you
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai chai" - No
- "Nii tao rai?" - How much is this?
- "Hong nam yoo tee nai?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Aroi mak!" - Delicious!
- "Mai kao jai" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Buri Ram
Visit one of these nice places.
An expansive Khmer-era sanctuary set on a broad plain; stunning at sunrise when the light washes over the lintels and carvings.
A volcanic cone with forest trails and sweeping views of Buriram City from the summit.
Historic temple complex with gilded chedi, detailed carvings, and a tranquil courtyard ideal for architecture photography.
Evening scenes along the river with lanterns, reflections, and casual street activity.
Food in Buri Ram
Buri Ram Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Green papaya salad with lime, chili, fish sauce, and peanuts; a staple of Isan cuisine.
Must-Try!
Spiced minced meat salad (usually pork or chicken) with herbs and toasted rice powder.
Marinated grilled chicken served with sticky rice and a tangy jaew dipping sauce.
Hot and sour soup with pork or chicken, vegetables, and herbs.
Salt-crusted, grilled fish wrapped in banana leaves; crispy skin and fragrant flesh.
Steamed sticky rice served with many meals and perfect with grilled meats.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling evening market offering bowls of noodles, som tum, grilled meats, and sweet treats.
Daytime market with fresh produce, herbs, dried chilies, and ready-to-eat dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A wai is the traditional Thai greeting; return the wai with a smile and bow slightly. Use a higher wai with elders and monks.
Dress modestly, shoulders and knees covered, remove shoes before entering sacred spaces, and speak softly.
Avoid touching anyone’s head; do not point your feet at people or sacred objects.
Safety
Tipping in Buri Ram
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory; rounding up or small tips for good service are appreciated but not expected in most places. In upscale establishments, a 5–10% tip is common if no service charge is included.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets. Major credit cards are accepted in hotels and larger restaurants; mobile payments and QR code prompts (PromptPay) are increasingly common in cities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry to humid with daytime highs around 35–40°C; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
June–October brings regular afternoon showers and high humidity; carry a light rain jacket and waterproof bag for camera gear.
Cooler and very comfortable for outdoor exploration; temperatures typically range from 18–28°C, with cool evenings.
Buri Ram at Night
Hiking in Buri Ram
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A pleasant, short hike to the crater overlook offering city views and fresh forest air.
Nature walks around the park area; longer routes are possible for experienced hikers near Nang Rong.
Airports
How to reach Buri Ram by plane.
Small regional airport near Buriram city offering domestic flights; convenient for inbound travel to Bangkok and other Thai hubs.
Larger regional airport with more flight options; typically accessible by road or a longer domestic connection trip from Buriram.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents belong to Isan Thai communities with Lao-influenced culture, language, and festivals.
Smaller communities contribute to markets, cuisine, and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Buriram United is the region’s flagship club and a major sports draw.
Traditional Thai boxing is popular and sometimes appears in local events and venues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Buri Ram.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Isan cuisine often uses fish sauce or shrimp paste; request no fish sauce or shrimp paste, ask for tofu and vegetables, and opt for dishes centered on noodles, sticky rice, vegetables, and fresh herbs.