Of all the historical sites in Nakhon Ratchasima, perhaps the most impressive is this ancient Khmer shrine, which pre-dates Angkor Wat in Siem Reap. It is estimated that construction on this shrine began during the reign of Khmer King Jayavarman V in the late 10th century and was finished in the early 11th century, by King Suriyavarman I. During the height of the Angkor Empire, this site was directly connected to Angkor Wat by road.

Every year thousands of people from the city of Nakhon Ratchasima and the adjacent provinces gather in the modest town of Phimai to celebrate this magnificent historical relic as only Thais can. There are exhibitions of traditional music, dance and theatre, as well as a laser light and fireworks show at the ruins. This festival takes place in late October or early November, at the same time as the Phimai Boat Races and the national holiday - Loy Krathong.

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