Although small Khmer ruins are peppered throughout the province, today elephants are Surin's claim to fame. In the province's northern reaches, an entire village -- Baan Ta Klang -- has long been devoted to elephants, which hold a special place in Thai society. A large-scale elephant museum is the new addition to downtown Surin, not far from a handful of goofy elephant statues near the train station. If you happen to be here during the festival, you'll be treated to some of the most elaborate elephant shows in the world.