Nakhon Ratchasima, also known as ‘Khorat’, is the largest province of Thailand and is the gateway to the Northeastern region of Thailand. Khorat is blessed with prestine natural resources composing of mountains, forests, waterfalls, and reservoirs, and is home to one of the most famous National Parks in Thailand named ‘Khao Yai National Park’. Nakhon Ratchasima is also rich with historical and cultural heritage as traces of Dvaravati and Khmer cultures were found throughout the province. Several historical parks and archaeological sites within Nakhon Ratchasima, including the renowned Phimai Historical Park and the Ban Prasat Archaeological Site, revealed that the area is proved to be of significant importance during the Khmer Empire. In the past, Nakhon Ratchasima was the important centre of prehis toric communities, and today, it is also a major transportation, industrial, and economic hub of the Northeast. Apart from the remarkable natural attractions and astonishing historical and cultural attrac tions, Nakhon Ratchasima is also endowed with numerous fascinating local legacies including unique local way of life and distinctive local handicrafts, particularly Dan Kwian’s earthen wares and Pak Thong Chai’s silk textiles. Located 259 kilometres from Bangkok, Nakhon Ratchasima covers an area of 20,494 square kilo metres and comprises 32 Amphoes (districts).
