The Land of Khmer Heritage, Volcanoes, and Modern Sports Power in Isan
Buriram Province is a culturally distinctive and fast-rising province in Lower Northeastern Thailand (Isan). Internationally recognized for its Khmer-era stone temples, extinct volcano landscapes, and world-class sports infrastructure, Buriram bridges ancient civilization with modern ambition—emerging as one of Isan’s most dynamic provinces.
🏛️ Formation & Historical Background
Buriram’s identity is deeply rooted in ancient Khmer civilization and later Thai state formation.
Key Historical Timeline
| Year/Period | Major Event |
|---|---|
| 9th–13th century | Part of the Khmer Empire; temple construction |
| 14th–18th century | Gradual Thai–Lao settlement |
| 18th century | Integrated into Siam |
| 1899 | Administrative reforms |
| 1933 | Established as a modern Thai province |
| 21st century | Rapid development via sports & infrastructure |
Buriram’s name means “City of Happiness.”
🧭 Basic Provincial Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Buriram Province |
| Capital City | Buriram |
| Region | Northeastern Thailand (Lower Isan) |
| Governor (2025) | Appointed by Ministry of Interior |
| Area | ~10,322 sq km |
| Population (2025 est.) | ~1.6 million |
| Time Zone | UTC +7 |
| Main Languages | Thai, Isan (Lao dialect) |
| ISO Code | TH-31 |
⚖️ Government & Administration
Buriram follows Thailand’s provincial governance framework.
| Level | Authority |
|---|---|
| Province | Governor |
| District | District Chiefs (Amphoe) |
| Local | Municipalities & Subdistrict Administrative Organizations |
The Buriram Provincial Hall coordinates administration.
🗺️ Administrative Districts of Buriram
Buriram Province consists of 23 districts (Amphoe):
Mueang Buriram
Khu Mueang
Krasang
Nang Rong
Nong Ki
Lahan Sai
Prakhon Chai
Ban Kruat
Phutthaisong
Lam Plai Mat
Satuek
Pakham
Na Pho
Nong Hong
Phlapphla Chai
Huai Rat
Non Din Daeng
Chamni
Ban Mai Chaiyaphot
Non Suwan
Ban Dan
Khaen Dong
Chaloem Phra Kiat
🌐 Geography & Environment
Topography: Plains with volcanic hills
Distinct Feature: Extinct volcano chain
Borders: Nakhon Ratchasima, Surin, Sisaket, Cambodia
Natural Highlights
Phanom Rung volcanic complex
Khao Kradong volcano
Agricultural plains & reservoirs
🏘️ Local Government Structure
Buriram City Municipality
Nang Rong Municipality
Subdistrict Administrative Organizations (TAO/SAO)
Urban development focuses on livability and event hosting.
🧩 Provincial Development & Priorities
Key priorities include:
Sports & event-led development
Tourism (heritage + festivals)
Agriculture & food processing
Transport & regional connectivity
Youth and skills development
Buriram is widely cited as a sports-led growth model.
🛡️ Law Enforcement & Safety
| Agency | Function |
|---|---|
| Buriram Provincial Police | Law enforcement |
| Highway Police | Event & transport safety |
| Disaster Response Units | Drought & flood management |
The province maintains strong safety planning during major events.
🕊️ Religion, Language & Culture
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Major Religion | Buddhism (Theravada) |
| Cultural Identity | Isan–Khmer heritage |
| Local Language | Isan (Lao dialect) |
| Traditions | Silk weaving, festivals |
Key Cultural Sites
Phanom Rung Historical Park
Prasat Muang Tam
City Pillar Shrine
📈 Economy & Key Sectors
| Sector | Description |
|---|---|
| Agriculture | Rice, cassava, sugarcane |
| Tourism | Heritage & festivals |
| Sports Economy | Football, motorsports |
| Services | Retail, hospitality |
Sports tourism significantly boosts the local economy.
🎓 Education & Healthcare
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Universities | Buriram Rajabhat University |
| Major Hospitals | Buriram Hospital |
✈️ Transport & Infrastructure
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Airport | Buriram Airport |
| Roads | Mittraphap & regional highways |
| Rail | Northeastern Railway Line |
Connectivity supports tourism and events.
🏞️ Tourism & Attractions
Top Attractions
Phanom Rung Historical Park
Chang Arena (football stadium)
Chang International Circuit
Khao Kradong Forest Park
Local silk villages
Buriram uniquely blends ancient temples with modern sports.
🌍 Regional & National Role
Khmer heritage center of Thailand
Sports & event capital of Isan
Tourism growth driver
Border-adjacent cultural gateway
📝 Summary
Buriram Province stands out in Isan for its powerful combination of ancient Khmer heritage, volcanic landscapes, and modern sports-driven development. From sacred stone temples to international racing circuits, Buriram exemplifies how tradition and innovation can thrive together.
📢 News & Articles
“Phanom Rung and Khmer Heritage Preservation”
“Sports-Led Development in Buriram”
“Tourism Growth through Festivals & Events”
🎯 Our Mission
This profile is part of the AFP Global Knowledge Hub, delivering structured, link-ready, and authoritative provincial knowledge.