Explore Surin — Thailand's Land of Elephants & Ancient Khmer Temples

Stay at Ryan’s Resort in Prasat and use it as your base to discover ancient Khmer ruins, the world’s largest elephant village, sacred hilltop shrines and traditional silk-weaving villages — all right on your doorstep.

Your Base for Exploring Surin Province

Ryan’s Resort sits right in Prasat, Surin — one of the best-placed spots in the province for exploring everything from ancient Khmer ruins to the elephant villages Surin is famous for. After a day of sightseeing, come back to a comfortable room, a cold beer in the sports bar, and a hearty meal in our restaurant.

Here’s our guide to the best things to do in and around Surin, whether you’re here for a weekend break or a longer stay.

Things to Do In & Around Surin

Prasat Ta Muean Thom

An atmospheric 11th-century Khmer-Hindu temple set right on the Thai-Cambodian border, deep in the forested Dangrek Mountains. One of Surin’s most striking historical sites and a must for anyone interested in Khmer architecture.

Approx. distance from Ryan’s Resort: Around 45 minutes from Ryan’s Resort

Phanom Sawai Forest Park

A revered hilltop pilgrimage site made up of three peaks, home to a giant white Buddha image, shrines and sweeping views over the surrounding rice fields. A short, scenic climb rewards you with one of the best viewpoints in the province.

Approx. distance from Ryan’s Resort: Around 20 minutes from Ryan’s Resort

Prasat Sikhoraphum

One of the best-preserved Khmer monuments in Thailand, this 12th-century Hindu temple features five sandstone-clad brick towers with intricate carvings, including a famous ten-armed Shiva relief above the central doorway.

Approx. distance from Ryan’s Resort: Around 40 minutes from Ryan’s Resort

Ban Ta Klang Elephant Village & Elephant Study Centre

Home to the Kuy people, renowned for centuries as Thailand’s most skilled elephant trainers. Visit the Elephant Study Centre to learn about the deep bond between the community and their elephants, with shows and feeding experiences held daily.

Approx. distance from Ryan’s Resort: Around 1 hour from Ryan’s Resort

Surin National Museum

A well-curated museum covering Surin’s Khmer ruins, ethnic Kuy, Lao and Khmer communities, and its famous elephant-raising heritage. A great introduction to the province before heading out to the temples and villages themselves.

Approx. distance from Ryan’s Resort: Around 25 minutes from Ryan’s Resort

Ban Tha Sawang Silk Weaving Village

Watch generations-old weaving techniques in action at this village famous for its intricate gold-brocade silk — the same fabric once presented to Thai royalty. A fascinating stop for culture lovers and a great place to pick up a genuine souvenir.

Approx. distance from Ryan’s Resort: Around 30 minutes from Ryan’s Resort

Surin City Pillar Shrine (San Lak Muang)

A striking red, Khmer-style shrine right in Surin town, and a focal point for local worship and community life. Well worth a stop if you’re spending an afternoon exploring the town centre.

Approx. distance from Ryan’s Resort: Around 25 minutes from Ryan’s Resort

Planning Your Day Trips from Ryan's Resort

A car or scooter hire is recommended — many sites are spread out across the province
Visit hilltop and outdoor sites like Phanom Sawai in the cooler morning hours
Dress modestly when visiting temples and shrines
Bring your ID for the checkpoint near Prasat Ta Muean Thom
Ask our team for directions, drivers or recommended local guides
Come back to Ryan's Resort for a cold beer and dinner after a day of exploring

Why Explore From Ryan's Resort

Central Location

Based in Prasat, Surin — close to many of the province's best attractions.

Free Parking

Leave your car or scooter safely on-site while you're out exploring.

Comfortable Return

Come back to a comfortable room or family bungalow after a day of sightseeing.

Food & Drink On-Site

Refuel with great food and cold beer without needing to go far.

What Our Guests Say About Exploring Surin

We used Ryan's as our base for three days and visited the elephant village, Sikhoraphum and Phanom Sawai. Perfectly placed and the staff gave us great directions.

Claire W.

Holidaymaker

Loved being able to head out to the temples during the day and come back for cold beer and the football in the evening. Best of both worlds.

Tom B.

Sports Fan & Traveller

Prasat Ta Muean Thom was incredible and so close by. Ryan's Resort made a great, comfortable base for exploring the area with the kids.

The Ainsworth Family

Family Holidaymakers

Things to Do FAQs

Do I need a car to visit these attractions?

A car or scooter is recommended, as many of Surin’s best sites — including the temples and elephant village — are spread out across the province. Our team can help point you in the right direction or recommend local drivers.

How far is Ryan's Resort from Surin town centre?

Ryan’s Resort is based in Prasat, a short drive from Surin town and well placed for reaching attractions across the province.

Is Prasat Ta Muean Thom safe to visit?

Yes, it’s a popular and well-visited site, though it sits right on the Thai-Cambodian border, so bring ID and expect a checkpoint on arrival.

Can you arrange tours or transport?

Ask our team when you check in — we’re happy to help point you towards local guides and transport options for day trips.

Is the elephant village suitable for children?

Yes, Ban Ta Klang is a popular family visit, with elephant feeding and shows held daily.

Make Ryan's Resort Your Base for Exploring Surin

Book your room or bungalow today and start planning your Surin adventure — temples, elephants and silk villages are all within easy reach.

Ryan's Resort

Comfortable accommodation, a giant sports bar and a family-friendly restaurant — Ryan’s Resort is Thailand’s home for great food, cold beer and relaxing stays.

Contact

Amphur Prasat Surin

Phone: 0847561520 (Thai) 0843200279 (Eng)

Email: ryansresort@gmail.com