Welcome, expats living in Thailand! If you’re looking to explore the hidden gems of Nakhon Ratchasima, make sure to add Ban Prasat to your bucket list. This charming village offers a unique cultural experience and breathtaking natural beauty. In this article, we will delve into five reasons why Ban Prasat should not be missed during your stay in Nakhon Ratchasima.
Ban Prasat is a small village located about 30 or 40 km north or Nakhon Ratchasima. Artefacts and tombs were discovered here showing how people were living in this area 3,000 years ago. These people were planting rice and domesticated animals, just like today. It was located near the banks of Mae Nam Than Prasat which is a river. These discoveries were completed in 1991 by the excavation of some pits in the area.
Map of Ban Prasat
Rich Historical Significance
Ban Prasat holds a significant place in Thai history, and visiting this village allows you to step back in time. The area is renowned for its archaeological site, which dates back over 5,000 years. Immerse yourself in the past as you explore the ancient ruins, pottery, and artifacts. It’s truly an enriching experience that gives you a glimpse into the kingdom’s past.Excavation pits
In the village, you will find 3 excavations sites, a museum and also some homestay offering stays for visitors and tourists.
Excavation pit that can be seen in Ban Prasat.
The tombs show burial practices in the area. It involves placement of the dead along with offerings in a rectangle grave. The first internments are date to the Bronze Age, from about 1,000 BC. Human remains as old as 3,000 years ago were found there with pottery and bronze ornaments.
Immersive Cultural Experience
One of the highlights of visiting Ban Prasat is the opportunity to engage with the local community and experience their way of life. The villagers are welcoming and eager to share their traditions, customs, and local cuisine. You can participate in traditional Thai dance and music performances, witness traditional handicraft making, or even try your hand at traditional farming techniques. Interacting with the locals will provide you with a deep appreciation for Thai culture. The museum and the pits are in the middle of the city. In 2005, I stay in a local “home stay” in Ban Prasat. This Information can be obtained at the TAT office beside Sima Thani hotel in Nakhon Ratchasima or online. We paid about 400 baht per person for a dinner at the house + a room for the night. The dinner was great, involving local specialties. The room was clean and the family very nice. They showed us the local primary school and the whole village. The only problem is that they didn’t speak English and everything had to be done in Thai.
This is an example of home stay.
Ban Prasat has received international awards (The PATA gold award 1994 for Pata heritage and culture granted by the Pacific Asia travel Association and the Asenta awards 1996 for excellence in tourism granted by the ASEAN Tourism Association). No trip to Ban Prasat or in a local village is complete without indulging in the delicious local cuisine. Try some traditional dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. From aromatic Thai curries to flavorful stir-fried delicacies, you will find a wide array of options to satisfy your cravings. Make sure to try their specialty dishes like Kanom Jeen Nam Ya (rice noodles with spicy curry sauce) and Sai Krok Isan (Northeastern Thai sausages). These culinary delights will leave you craving for more.Warm Hospitality
Last but not least, the warm hospitality of the locals in Ban Prasat will make your visit truly unforgettable. The villagers are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, and they will go above and beyond to ensure that your stay is comfortable and enjoyable. Whether it’s offering a helping hand, sharing stories, or providing guidance on exploring the village, their warmth will leave a lasting impression in your heart.Museum
The museum of Ban Prasat is small but quite nice. It explains the excavations pits and discoveries made. It shows how people were living in the area, and has also numerous artifacts found in the excavations pits.
Conclusion
Ban Prasat in Nakhon Ratchasima is a hidden gem that offers expats living in Thailand a unique cultural experience, historical insights, na and warm hospitality. Visiting this village should definitely be on your bucket list. Indulge in the rich history, immerse yourself in the local culture, and bask in the natural wonders of Ban Prasat. Links- TAT website on Ban Prasat (no information)
- Ban Prasat Homestay
- Search Ban Prasat on Google and you can find info or pictures on Flickr for example that one inside the museum
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