Buriram: Volcanoes, History and Cranes

Volcanic craters, a long history of settlement and the return of the sarus cranes give Buriram an unusual character. If you’re looking for a holiday rental here, you can first consider which experiences you want to shape your stay: historic sites, volcanic landscapes, birdwatching or motorsports. These different themes offer distinct perspectives on the region, rather than combining into a single excursion destination.

Discover volcanoes and landscapes

Phanom Rung Historical Park is located on an extinct volcano in Ta Pek, in Chaloem Phra Kiat District of Buri Ram Province. Khao Kradong Forest Park is also shaped by a volcano: the recreation area includes an ancient volcano with a clearly visible crater. There are two described ways to climb Khao Kradong: take a staircase with 297 steps or drive to the summit. You can plan your day around whether you’d rather climb the steps or drive.

Phu Angkhan offers another volcanic landscape. The hill has one large crater and several smaller ones. If you’re particularly interested in geological formations, you can compare this description with the ancient volcano and visible crater at Khao Kradong Forest Park. The two places represent different forms of volcanic landscape: a hill with several craters on the one hand, and a recreation area with an ancient volcano on the other.

History and a special tradition

Inscriptions and building remains indicate that the area around Phanom Rung Historical Park had been an ancient settlement since the 15th Buddhist century. This long history is part of the site’s character and makes Phanom Rung interesting to travellers who want to discover traces of the past on their trip. Wat Angkhan, in turn, is associated with a local tradition: according to legend, the Buddha’s ashes were buried on the mountain.

Phanom Rung is also associated with an annual tradition of ascending the site. It takes place from 2 to 4 April, or on the full-moon day of the fifth lunar month. At that time, the first light of dawn shines through all 15 gates. This special moment connects the site with a recurring cultural occasion. If you’re planning your trip around historical and cultural experiences, it’s worth considering this date as a separate planning factor.

Wetlands, cranes and nature

Thai sarus cranes have been reintroduced to Huai Chorakhe Mak Reservoir, where they breed naturally. The Wetland and Thai Crane Learning Centre offers a different way to explore birds: from a four-storey observation tower, you can use binoculars to watch Thai cranes and other bird species. The centre also has an exhibition room and information boards, and staff are available to answer questions. This lets you include birdwatching and learning about wetlands and cranes as separate interests in your trip.

Dong Yai Wildlife Sanctuary is described as one of the last remaining rich forests in Buri Ram Province and an important source area for the upper reaches of Lam Nang Rong and Lam Plai Mat. A survey in the sanctuary recorded around 130 species.

For motorsports fans too

Alongside nature and history, Buriram offers a striking contrast: Buriram International Circuit opened in 2014, and its first MotoGP race was held there in 2018. If motorsports are among your travel interests, you can take this venue into account when considering a holiday rental. Travellers who come to Buriram for its volcanic landscapes, cranes or the history of Phanom Rung will have different priorities when choosing a destination.

Other subdistricts

For further orientation, you can also find Amphoe Nang RongAmphoe Nang Rong, PrasatPrasat, Ban KhuBan Khu, Khao KhokKhao Khok, PhutthaisongPhutthaisong, Satuek DistrictSatuek District, Krasang DistrictKrasang District, Prakhon Chai DistrictPrakhon Chai District, Nang Rong DistrictNang Rong District, Ban BuaBan Bua, Khu MueangKhu Mueang, Talat PhoTalat Pho, Thong LangThong Lang, SametSamet, Khok MoKhok Mo and Ban WaengBan Waeng.

For the broader travel overview: Thailand.