Prasat Phum Pon

Prasat Phum Pon is an ancient Khmer temple complex located in Ban Phum Pon, Tambon Dom, Sangkha District, Surin Province, northeastern Thailand. Dating to the 7th–8th century Chenla period, it is regarded as the oldest Khmer sanctuary in Thailand. The site comprises four brick and laterite prangs, with the northern brick tower being the best preserved. Noted for its early Khmer architecture, lintels and inscriptions, it reflects pre-Angkorian Hindu traditions.

Visitors can expect a small, quiet archaeological site in a rural village setting surrounded by rice fields and trees. The complex consists of four prangs - three brick and one laterite - on a low laterite base. The northern brick prang is the most complete, showing early Khmer brickwork, pilasters and sandstone doorframes. Visitors can walk around the towers, view lintels and inscriptions, read information panels, and explore the open grassy compound.

Prasat Phum Pon was constructed in the 7th-8th century during the Chenla period, predating the Angkor period, and is considered the oldest Khmer temple in Thailand. Built as a Hindu sanctuary dedicated to Shiva, it shows early Khmer brick architecture transitioning from Chenla to pre-Angkorian styles. The site includes Sanskrit inscriptions and architectural elements that provide evidence of early Khmer settlement and religious practice in present-day northeastern Thailand.

The temple reflects early Hindu Shaivite traditions of the Khmer culture and later local Buddhist reverence. It remains a respected historical and religious landmark for the local community in Surin and an important example of Isan's Khmer heritage, illustrating the cultural links between northeastern Thailand and the Khmer civilization.