When and where
Next edition: The date for next year is not confirmed yet; the festival is usually held in April.
When: Early April (around the sun-alignment)
Rule: Lunar calendar. Variable: 2026 was 3-5 April; 2027 not yet confirmed.
Dates can change. Check the current date shortly before your trip with the local organisers or the tourist office.
About Phanom Rung Festival (Sun Alignment)
The Phanom Rung festival celebrates the Khmer temple park on an extinct volcano in Buriram. On a few days each year the rising sun shines through all fifteen doorways of the sanctuary, an astronomically precise design from the 12th century. Devotees and visitors climb the stairs in procession, and there are dance performances and light shows. It is a wonderful chance to see Khmer architecture.
Getting there
Phanom Rung is about 65 km from Buriram city; rental car, taxi or organised tour.
Highlights
- Sun through 15 doors The rising sun shines exactly through all the doorways.
- Procession A procession climbs the naga bridge and stairs.
- Khmer architecture Carvings and bridges from the 12th century.
Tips for Phanom Rung Festival (Sun Alignment)
- Rise early for sunrise; it is cool and busy.
- Wear sturdy shoes for the stairs.
- Bring water as there is little shade.
Phanom Rung Festival (Sun Alignment) on the map
Pinch to zoom; tap a point for more info. Open circles: approximate location.
The map shows the Khmer temple park Phanom Rung in Buriram.
Frequently asked questions about Phanom Rung Festival (Sun Alignment)
When is Phanom Rung Festival (Sun Alignment) in 2026?
Phanom Rung Festival falls in 2026 on 3–5 April, at Phanom Rung Historical Park. Rule: Early April (around the sun-alignment). An official or clearly documented source confirms this date.
Where is the best place to see Phanom Rung Festival (Sun Alignment)?
Watch it best at Phanom Rung Historical Park. The rising sun shines exactly through all the doorways. Phanom Rung is about 65 km from Buriram city; rental car, taxi or organised tour. A procession climbs the naga bridge and stairs. Highlight: Khmer architecture – Carvings and bridges from the 12th century.
What should I bring or wear to Phanom Rung Festival (Sun Alignment)?
Rise early for sunrise; it is cool and busy. Wear sturdy shoes for the stairs. Bring water as there is little shade. Highlight: Sun through 15 doors – The rising sun shines exactly through all the doorways. Highlight: Procession – A procession climbs the naga bridge and stairs.
Festivals near Phanom Rung Historical Park
- Surin Elephant Round-up 70 km as the crow flies
- Phimai Festival 90 km as the crow flies
- Thao Suranari Festival (Ya Mo) 105 km as the crow flies
- Dok Lamduan Flower Festival (Si Sa Ket) 165 km as the crow flies
- Yasothon Rocket Festival (Bun Bang Fai) 190 km as the crow flies