Khorakapura: The Ancient Power Center of the Northeastern Uplands

“Khorakapura” is a historical concept referring to an ancient power center in the lower Mun River basin of Northeastern Thailand. This article explores the cultural and political significance of the region through archaeological and geographical evidence, focusing on four key districts in Nakhon Ratchasima Province: Sung Noen, Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima, Phimai, and Sikhio. Each district played a pivotal role in administration, religion, and cultural development, revealing connections with the Khmer Empire and other pre-modern polities. Rather than a mere hypothetical toponym, Khorakapura represents a framework for understanding the interwoven nature of authority, sacred geography, and enduring legacies of civilization in the upland plateau.