Khorat

Friday 23 March: I arrive in Nakhon Ratchasima, which everyone knows by it's old name of Khorat, an ancient walled and moated stronghold with a central statue of the city's heroine, Thao Suranari, who led the townsfolk to victory over Lao invaders. At Wat Phayap a beautiful cave, rescued by a local monk from destruction by quarrying, has been rebuilt here in the form of a shrine - unique. My favourite though is the stunning moated temple of Wat Phra Narai Maharat.
Saturday 24: A bus ride away is Phimai Historical Park with another fine temple from Khmer times.
Chumphol Hotel is a good practical local en-suite option as those in my guidebook are inconveniently located or closed.

Photos of Khorat and Phimai Historic Park.