Things To Do
in Phimai
Phimai is a tranquil town in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Isan, renowned for its impressive Khmer-era ruins and riverine scenery. The centerpiece is Phimai Historical Park, a well-preserved temple complex set among palm-lined streets and rural farmland. The town blends ancient history with warm, friendly local culture and a laid-back pace of life.
It serves as a gateway to Isan heritage, nature, and authentic Thai village experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Phimai Historical Park, home to some of the finest Khmer architecture in Thailand. You can marvel at the grand entrance and the intricate carvings that tell stories of the ancient past. Take your time to walk around the temple complex and feel the spiritual atmosphere.
After lunch, visit the nearby Phimai National Museum to learn more about the history and culture of the area. The museum showcases artifacts related to the ancient Khmer civilization and offers insights into the region's rich heritage. Consider spending some time in the museum's serene gardens to relax.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, tasting traditional Thai dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Watching the twilight over the historical park is a magical experience that brings a sense of peace after a day of exploration. End your evening with a leisurely stroll along the riverfront, soaking in the tranquil ambiance.
Visit the Phimai morning market to experience the vibrant local culture. The market is filled with colorful stalls offering fresh produce, street food, and handmade crafts, providing ample opportunities for sampling local flavors. Engage with friendly vendors and immerse yourself in the daily life of the town.
Spend your afternoon at Phimai Old City, wandering through its quaint streets dotted with traditional wooden houses and art galleries. Discover local artisans showcasing their crafts and perhaps even participate in a workshop to learn a traditional Thai art form. This hands-on experience will deepen your appreciation for the local culture.
For dinner, find a cozy spot at a restaurant that specializes in northern Thai cuisine. Enjoy a meal of classic dishes like Khao Soi or Larb while chatting with locals about their favorite hidden gems in Phimai. As night falls, take in the peaceful atmosphere of the town square before heading back to your accommodation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $15-30 |
| 🥤Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🚗Local transportation (short ride) | $1-3 |
| 🎟️Entrance to Phimai Historical Park | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Khmer-era history and accessible temples
- Warm Isan hospitality and delicious street food
- Relaxed pace of life with easy day trips to nature
- Smaller nightlife and fewer large-scale attractions
- Limited English signage outside main tourist areas
- "Sawasdee ka/krub" - Hello (polite greeting; ka for females, krub for males)
- "Khob khun ka/krub" - Thank you
- "Tao rai?" - How much is this?
- "Hong nam yoo tee-nai?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Chai/Mai chai" - Yes / No
Places to Visit in Phimai
Visit one of these nice places.
An iconic Khmer temple complex with massive stone walls, towers, and intricate carvings; best photographed at sunrise or late afternoon when light softens the stone.
A scenic riverside stretch ideal for golden-hour photography and candid street scenes of locals and vendors along the water.
Historic gates and surrounding walls offer atmospheric textures and silhouettes against the sky, especially during dusk.
Candid street photography opportunities among vendors, colorful produce, and local personalities in a bustling daytime setting.
Food in Phimai
Phimai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Spicy, tangy salad with shredded green papaya, lime, chili, sugar, and peanuts; widely available at street carts and markets.
Must-Try!
Marinated, charcoal-grilled chicken served with sticky rice; a staple at markets and barbecue stalls.
Herb-packed minced pork or beef salad with lime, fish sauce, and toasted rice; best at local eateries and markets.
A fragrant, sour-sweet curry featuring vegetables and sometimes pork; enjoyed with steamed rice.
Staple accompaniment to many Isan dishes; perfect for dipping or pairing with grilled items.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market where you can sample fresh fruit, spicy soups, grilled meats, sticky rice, and sweet treats; best for lunchtime bites and people-watching.
A cluster of street food stalls offering breakfast soups, noodle dishes, and fried bites, ideal for a quick, flavorful start to the day.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered); remove shoes where required; show respect to monks and sacred spaces; avoid pointing feet at people or religious objects.
The Wai gesture (hands pressed together) is a respectful greeting; a slight bow accompanies the gesture depending on context.
Speak softly in public places, especially near temples and residential areas; be mindful of royal and cultural respect; avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Phimai
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not required. In casual eateries and markets, rounding up is common; in nicer restaurants, a small tip for good service is welcomed.
Thai baht cash is universally accepted in Phimai. Many larger establishments and hotels accept credit cards; mobile payments and QR codes (PromptPay/QR payments) are increasingly common in shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and dry; temperatures frequently rise above 35°C (95°F). Seek shade, hydrate, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Warm and humid with frequent showers, especially in the late afternoon. Roads in rural areas can be slick or occasionally flooded; carry a light rain jacket.
Pleasant and comfortably cool evenings with milder daytime temperatures; ideal for temple visits and outdoor exploration.
Phimai at Night
Hiking in Phimai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short shaded loop through local woodland around Phimai town, offering birds-eye views and tranquil scenery.
Gentle ascent to a hill behind the town for panoramic farmland and temple silhouettes at sunset.
Airports
How to reach Phimai by plane.
Regional hub with domestic and limited international flights; about 150–180 km from Phimai, typically 2.5–3 hours by car.
Small regional airport serving nearby areas; about 90–110 km from Phimai; mainly domestic routes.
Thailand’s main international gateway; about 280–320 km from Phimai; convenient for international connections via road or rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily residents from the Isan region with a strong Lao influence, known for hospitality and a vibrant local culture.
Many residents are involved in agriculture and small family businesses across surrounding villages.
Increasing number of visitors seeking cultural experiences and a slower pace of travel.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional Thai boxing practiced and watched in surrounds throughout Isan; local gyms and events are common for visitors.
Popular recreation and local matches in town areas and schools.
A favored way to explore the countryside and villages around Phimai.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Phimai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find vegetable-focused curries, stir-fries, tofu dishes, and fresh fruit at most market stalls and vegetarian-friendly restaurants; ask for no fish sauce or shrimp paste if needed.