Monument of Thao Suranari 

Thao Suranari Monument is a memorial to the Thai heroine called ‘Ya Mo’ by locals.  Built in 1934, it is located in the city centre.  People from other provinces who visit Khorat and locals usually come to pay homage here and ask for blessings.  The statue is made of black copper.  It is 1.85 metres high and is dressed in regalia in a standing posture.  The right hand holds a sword and the statue faces west towards the capital of Bangkok.  The monument base holds her ashes.

Thao Suranari was originally Khunying Mo, the wife of the assistant governor of Nakhon Ratchasima.  In 1826, Chao Anuwong of Vientiane had Khorat under siege but Khunying Mo rallied villagers to fight against Chao Anuwong.  After the battle was over, King Rama III promoted her to Thao Suranari.  Every year during 23 March to 3 April, the people would hold a festival to honour her bravery.

Interesting events: Khorat songs (phleng Khorat) is sung in the evenings on a stage near the shrine. They are traditional folk songs worth listening.