Phimai Festival

Festival Location: Phimai, Thailand

Festival Type(s): Cultural Festivals, Folk Dancing Festivals | Traditional Dancing Festivals, Family Festivals

Phimai Festival

By: © Dawn DelVecchio 2009

At the edge of Northeastern Thailand's Khorat plateau sits the country's largest province, Nakhon Ratchasima. Although little known today, the region's multitude of ruins give testament to its active role in the once-great Khmer empire. In their heyday, Khmer kings built tens of fortresses and brilliant temples in the area. They stretched along a royal highway that began at the empire's capitol in central Cambodia, ran through Thailand, and all the way to the borders of Myanmar.

Of the many remains scattered across the plateau, none are as impressive as those found near the small town of Phimai, just north of the provincial capitol. The ruins of Prasat Hin Phimai, built during the reign of King Suryavarman I between 1002 and 1050, are considered to be the country's premier Cambodian monument. The site (abandoned at the collapse of the Khmer empire in the 15th century) was once a religious settlement and vassal colony, and is thought by some to have possibly been the model for Angkor Wat. These Hindu/Buddhist structures have seen their share of restoration work over the years, but still boast an abundance of original sculptural detail and the brilliant symmetry that typifies Khmer religious architecture.

Each November the town of Phimai, along with the Tourist Authority of Thailand, hosts a magnificent festival in celebration of the region's cultural history. The occasion offers visitors plenty of entertainment and a chance to delve into Northeastern Thailand's cultural roots.

The event begins with a lavish cultural procession which includes traditional folk tunes from the region, ornately attired dancers, decorative boats bedecked to emulate Bangkok's Royal Barges, and performances of ram tone or drum dancing. Once the festivities are underway, guests can enjoy some of the best local cuisine at the many food booths throughout the park. Regional favorites include som thom (green papaya salad), kao neow (sticky rice), and fried Phimai noodles.

Numerous exhibitions highlight local culture, history and handicrafts, including the province's famed silk weaving. Drawing and cooking contests are also featured, as well as the festival's focal point: traditional long boat races held along the Mae Nam Mun river tributaries. These decidedly competitive races are exhilarating events to watch and are fun for adults and children alike.

Each evening, classical dance performance called Wimaya Nattakarn are held, along with a light and sound show set against the backdrop of the temple complex.

The Phimai Festival is located near the town of Phimai, 60 KM north of Nakhon Ratchasima (Khorat). Venues include the Phimai Historical Park, The Gate of Victory at Chomsuda Sadet and Na Prasat Roads, the Brahmathat Courtyard and Chakkarat Stream. The Phimai Festival is a great way to celebrate the end of the rainy season and enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Northeastern Thailand.

by Dawn DelVecchio