The Angkor Empire spread far and wide, including into Laos and Thailand. Thailand has tried very hard to claim a Cambodian temple that sits on the border. The claim is superfluous—Preah Vihear clearly belongs to Cambodia and the internal court at the Hague has ruled as much (twice). That does not stop Thailand. The issue has less to do with the temple and more to do with the temple’s location. It sits upon a promontory that provides an excellent view of the area. The Thai military wants control of that strategic location. The temple remains closed because of the continued fighting despite the international court’s ruling against Thailand, but there is another Khmer temple to visit in Thailand.
Phimai is a fantastic example of Khmer architecture and is built in the style of Angkor Wat and Bayon. Located in Korat, Phimai Historical Park looks almost like Angkor itself. If you have been to Angkor, you will immediately recognize the style. Phimai is much smaller than Angkor and takes only a short time to visit. Still, it is well cared for and the grounds are quite nice to stroll around. A small little museum near the entrance provides some good information and is worth spending five to ten minutes exploring, if only to ground yourself if what you will see.
