This small Khmer temple is located in Sikhoraphum, about 30 kilometers from Surin. It was built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II for Hinduism. Prasat Sikhoraphum consists of five sandstone towers on a laterite base. The main tower is decorated with sandstone reliefs depicting Shiva, Brahma, Ganesh, Vishnu, and Uma. The door frames feature Apsaras, Devatas, and Dvarapalas. In the 16th century, the temple was converted for Buddhist use. Laotian architectural influences are evident in the tower roofs. The name derives from the Sanskrit word "Shikhara," meaning "tower sanctuary of South India." If you are in the area and haven't yet seen temples of this style, a visit to Sikhoraphum might be worthwhile, even though the temple itself is quite small. A visit is especially recommended if there are cultural events taking place; otherwise, you might be disappointed. If you're traveling by car, a short drive to the Khmer ruins in Surin province is highly recommended. Every year, on the Friday and Saturday of the third weekend in November, a light and sound show featuring traditional dances and costumes takes place.

Entrance fee: 50 Baht. Opposite the train station, on the other side of the tracks, is Wat Ra Ngaeng with its beautiful Buddha statue. A good way to make the wait for the next train a little more pleasant.

You can easily reach Sikhoraphum by train (7 baht in 3rd class, journey time just over half an hour). This is the easiest way to get there, and you're guaranteed not to miss anything. The temple is 1.5 km from Sikhoraphum station. You can easily reach it on foot or hire a motorbike taxi. There are always some waiting outside the station. The fare is 20 baht, double that if the driver waits for you and takes you back to the station. Alternatively, songthaew 1487 and minivan 4400 run between Surin and Surin.

Prasat Sikhoraphum is a temple, and when visiting a temple in Thailand there are some rules to follow: appropriate clothing (knees and shoulders should be covered), take off your shoes when entering the building, be quiet, do not hug or kiss, do not point your feet at the Buddha statue, do not smoke.

How to get there

How do I get to Prasat Sikhoraphum? The best way to reach Sikhoraphum is by train (7 baht in 3rd class, journey time just over half an hour). This is the most comfortable way to travel, and you're guaranteed not to miss anything. The temple is 1.5 km from Sikhoraphum train station. You can easily walk there or hire a motorbike taxi. There are always some waiting outside the station. The fare is 20 baht, double that if the driver waits for you and takes you back to the station. Alternatively, songthaews (shared taxis) on route 1487 and minivans on route 4400 run between Surin and Surin.