Prasat Mueang Sing Historical Park

Located in Sai Yok, Prasat Mueang Sing Historical Park marks the westernmost border of the once-majestic Khmer Empire. Nested on the bank of River Kwai, the park houses an ancient Hindu temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva. The structures unearthed here are contemporary of Cambodia’s Angkor Wat both in era and architecture.

The history of the site goes back to the period between 857 and 1157 when Khmer rule was flourishing. The region where the park now stands was not only temple premises but also a military stronghold for protection against invasions from beyond the river. The main prasat or tower, which enshrines the lingam, stands directly opposite the gate and faces east. Here you will get to see some treasured sculptures of the time, such as an eight-armed Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, the goddess Prajnaparamita, and the seated Buddha under the Naga hood. The town was abandoned during the reign of King Rama I. 

The park itself is also worth exploring. Sitting on 736,000 sq.m. of manicured lawn, the historical park is bordered by laterite walls from the ruins on three sides. Several small shrines and museum centers dot the park where you can learn about the Khmer rule in ancient Siam.