Khon Kaen lies in the geographical heart of Thailand's sprawling northeast plateau, known among Thais as Isan. Khon Kaen was established in 1783 and is a major regional development center and university city. The provincial capital is 449 kilometers northeast of Bangkok. The province covers an area of 10,886 square kilometers, parts of which contain national parks and forests.

Capital City Attractions

Bung (Lake) Kaen Nakorn is a popular lakeside recreation center in the southern part of the city and is well-known for its many footstalls selling popular local specialties, particularly som tam (spicy raw papaya salad) and kai yang (barbecued domestic chicken).

Khon Kaen National Museum contains a large collection of artifacts, particularly from the Northeast, including those discovered at major archaeological sites such as Ban Chiang, where the world's first Bronze Age civilization was believed to have flourished more than 5,000 years ago.

Provincial Attractions

Ubol Rattana Dam lies some 50 kilometers northwest of the provincial capital; this scenic dam is the largest multi-purpose dam in Isan, generating electricity for eight neighboring provinces. A reservoir-side restaurant and opportunities for boat trips make the dam a popular weekend destination.

Non Muang is an ancient Chumpae site, 85 kilometres from Khon Kaen, is believed to have been inhabited from prehistoric times until at least the 10th century AD. Human skeletons and 3,000-year-old bronze tools have been discovered in the area.

Phra That Kham Kaen boasts a 19-metre high chedi at Wat Jediyaphum about 30 kilometres northeast of Khon Kaen town. The legend has it that two revered monks on their way to Nakorn Phanom province spent the night at the site of present temple where they observed the dead tamarind tree. They told the villagers to build a Chedi over the 'Kham Kaen' (hardwood log). The province derives its name form this chedi.

Ku Puai Noi is a Khmer temple complex, lies 76 kilometers from the provincial capital in Puay Noi district, and is the largest one in Khon Kaen. Three brick pagodas, a laterite palace and beautifully carved doors are of particular interest.

Wat Udom Khongkha Kiri Khet is an elegant hill-top temple that lies in Mancha Khiri district. It is known for its ornate gold colored roof and beautifully decorated doors. The temple is 67 kilometers from town, and has a display of the belongings of Luang Poo Pharng, a monk revered by Isan people.

Phu Kao - Phu Phan Kham National Park is a sprawling 320 square-kilometer park which covers part of Ubolratana district and extends into the neighboring province of Udon Thani. Deciduous and evergreen forests offer ample trekking opportunities. The park may be reached by following the route from Khon Kaen to Ubolratana Dam to Non Sang.

Phu Wieng National Park lies some 60 kilometers northwest of the provincial capital and contains a number of important archaeological sites with evidence of Isan's earliest inhabitants seen from prehistoric rock painting. Fossil remains of an herbivorous and carnivorous dinosaur may be seen at park headquarters at Hua Phu Chon Reservoir.

Festivals

Dok Khun Siang Khaen Festival is held during April 13-15 every year at Bung Kaen Nakhon. The day starts with merit making, followed by pouring holy water on Buddha images, local dramatic arts, floral cart processions, northeastern food contests, a boat race, and shops selling a variety of products.

Silk and Phuk Sieo Festival is held annually on 29 November-10 December in front of Khon Kaen town hall. The main events are the display of the local silk, a silk contest, and an Isan friend-making called Phuk Sieo. Pha Laeng, a wonderful Isan dinner is also available.

Accommodation

Khon Kaen Hotel
Phimphaseut Rd. [0 4324 4881] 460-960 baht

Hotel Sofitel Raja Orchid
Theparak Rd. [0 4332 2155] 2400+ baht

Kosa Hotel
Si Chan Rd. [0 4322 5013] 900+ baht

Charoen Thani Princess
Si Chan Rd. [0 4322 0439] 990+ baht

Dining

Night Market vendors serve up many tasty dishes. Between Klang Muang Rd. and Na Meuang Rd.

Korean Barbecue Restaurants line Theparak Rd. It’s not advisable to eat here alone as portions are quite large.

Pizza & Bake serves a variety of European and Thai dishes. Maliwan Rd., dishes 30-70 baht

The Underground Complex is a large food and drink area under the Sofitel Raja Orchid. It even contains a microbrewery. Theparak Rd.

The Parrot cooks up steaks, pizzas, and Thai curries. Si Chan Rd.