Quiet Khmer
Without Phimai's crowds.
Ddalbiez — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Ddalbiez — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Philip Nalangan — CC BY 4.0 · Ddalbiez — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Ddalbiez — CC BY-SA 3.0
A Khmer temple of sandstone and brick among rice fields north-east of Korat, closer to the city and far quieter than Phimai. It was built in the eleventh century as a Hindu sanctuary to Shiva, then became a Buddhist temple still used by monks, so its main hall holds Buddha images wrapped in orange cloth among the old Khmer walls. A wall and gallery with gates on four sides surround the main tower, and the lintels and columns carry fine carvings of flowers and mythical creatures, with windows barred by turned stone balusters in Khmer style. Part of the temple has been restored in recent years, so its tower looks different in older photographs. Entry is free or a token fee, and the grounds are open all day. As a working temple it requires modest dress, and shoes come off in the hall. It is almost empty of visitors on weekdays, ideal for quiet photography. It is about half an hour by car from central Korat and can be combined with Phimai in one day on the way there.
Without Phimai's crowds.
A Hindu temple turned Buddhist.
In Khmer style.
Ban Phanom Wan, about 20 km north-east of Nakhon Ratchasima city
Yes if you like quiet: it is smaller but nearly empty, still in use, and on the way to Phimai.