Visiting Surin

Surin is one of the poorer, but more charming provinces in Northern Thailand. There are numerous Khmer-style temples dotting the countryside around Surin. While the laid-back local lifestyle is not as colorful, as say, Chiang Mai, the town is the perfect place to return to after a long day of trekking to temples. Surin has one claim to fame: Every November there is a rowdy and fun festival known as The Elephant Round-up.

During November’s festivities, elephants overrun the town. They can be seen ambling down the town’s main streets, on their way to the festivals pachyderm games. There is elephant soccer and life-like battle re-enactments (the elephant was a big part of Thailand’s military). Some of the elephants are painted with bright colors. This festival makes November a good time to visit Surin.

As far as temples go, Prasat Ta Meuan is the most famous and most spectacular in the area. This is a 12th century compound. The actual temples themselves are in need of restoration, though the disrepair does give the site a kind of authentic feel. There are actually three temples in this complex, spread out over half a mile.

There are rumors of landmines left over from the 1975-79 civil war in Cambodia at all Surin’s temples. It is hard to tell how widespread these explosives are, but it is probably best to err on the side of caution, especially since the pathways around the temples are not always well marked. Prasat Ta Meuan has clearly marked paths. Don’t stray from them!

Prasat Sikhoraphum is easy to reach. This temple compound brings to mind the style that was used in constructing Cambodia’s magnificent Angkor Wat. This was originally a temple to the Hindu gods, and has some magnificent stone carvings and statues.

There is a night market in Surin, which gets going in the evening. This is a good place to try out some local cuisine at a reasonable price. There are several watering holes in town, some catering to foreigners (though getting to know some locals over a few beers can be fun).

Surin is a quiet place, but has a kind of “wild-west” feel to it. There is little to worry about, except unexploded land mines. The true charm of this place is found in its people, whom are friendly and fun loving. November’s Elephant Round-up is the best time to visit.

Surin is also on the route to other tourist sites in the Issan region of Thailand.