Thailand Guides - Surin

Bordering on the Kampuchean boundary, Surin today is well known for its annual Elephant Show which attracts visitors from all over the world.

Overview

Near to the Thai-Cambodian border in Thailand’s central eastern region, Surin is the home of the annual Elephant festival, having been the breeding grounds for the royal elephants for much of the history of Thailand.

Surin is 457 kilometers far from Bangkok by car and 420 kilometers by train, and is 194 kilometers far from Nakhon Ratchasima by car and 170 kilometers by train.

Surin covers a total area of 8,124 square kilometers and is divided into 13 Amphoes (districts), 3 king Amphoes (Sub districts).

Despite its long historical background, there is so far no precise evidence to prove the origin of Surin Province. It has only been narrated for generations that Surin was built some 2,000 years ago when the ancient Khmer dominated the region. Surin was abandoned after the incline of the Khmer Kingdom. Later in 1763, a village at Ban Muang Thi was moved to Ban Khu Prathai where Surin is presently situated. The village was consequently upgraded to be ' Muang Prathai Saman and its leader, Luang Surin Phakdi, appointed Phra Surin Phakdi Si Narong Chang Wang, the Governor. In 1786 during the reign of King Rama I, Muang Prathai Saman was renamed 'Muang Surin' after the title of its Governor.

Attractions

Basketry Village, Ban Buthom 14 kilometers from the province on the Highway 226 (Surin - Sikhoraphumroute), the village produces rattan baskets of various types. Basketry shops line both sides of the road.

Silverware Village, Ban Khwao Sinarin and Ban Chok located on Highway 214 with a 4 kilometers right turn between Km. 14 -15, the villages produce and put on sale assorted silver ornaments such as belts, necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings and watches. A large number of silverware shops line both sides of the road.