When people think of Thailand, these cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, or Krabi might be the first ones that come to their minds. But if you are looking to experience the northeastern of Thailand, where you will see another kind of culture in Thailand. We would like to recommend Khon Kaen.
This province is like Bangkok of Isan, it has everything Bangkok has like big shopping centers, famous night markets, top festivals hosting locations, restaurants, bars and clubs, and finally traffic. With all these things plus the modern vibes of this city, that’s why Khon Kaen is called the capital of Isan.
Let’s learn a little history of Khon Kaen
Khon Kaen was found during King Rama I’s reign in the late 18th century, it started as a small settlement on the Korat Plateau. Time passes by it grows at a crossroads for the trade and cultural exchange between Laos, Cambodia, and Central Thailand. Today, Khon Kean has become a major city of northeastern Thailand with its modernness and youthful character. It’s also the center of Isan education with one of the biggest universities located in this city “Khon Kaen University”. One of Khon Kaen most well-known thing is that this is the place where dinosaurs’ fossils first found in Thailand and they have their own dinosaurs breed according to the history.
Cultural and Historical locations
Like every province in Thailand, Khon Kaen’s top location is related to the culture and history of itself. Here you can find many beautiful temples and the province’s museum.
1. Wat Nong Wang
- History: Built in the 1970s, with nine-story stupa (Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon), one of Khon Kaen’s most iconic landmarks. Each floor houses Buddhist relics, murals, and exhibition about Isan traditions.
- You can climb to the top of the stupa for panoramic views of Bueng Kaen Nakhon Lake and the city. It’s especially beautiful at sunset when the golden stupa glows against the skyline.
- Murals depict Isan folk tales and daily life is a highlight of the temple, since it can help you understand Isan traditions more.
2. Wat Pa Thamma Utthayan
- Also known as the forest temple, since the temple was built in the forest as a symbol of mindfulness and simplicity. This is a perfect place for meditation and reflection, and with its stunning architecture and animal sculptures it’s also an ideal location for a relaxing walk.
- Quiet walking paths, shady trees, and an authentic glimpse into monastic life is the highlight of the temple
3. Chonnabot Silk Weaving Village
- Khon Kaen is known for its Mudmee silk, a tie-dye weaving technique unique to Isan. Villages like Chonnabot preserve this craft.
- Travelers can try weaving themselves or purchase authentic silk at lower-than-market prices.
5. Khon Kaen National Museum
- First opened in 1972, the museum showcases artifacts from prehistoric settlements, Ban Chiang culture, and Khmer-era relics. Including displays of pottery, beads, and skeletons dating back over 5,000 years.
- Perfect for history buffs wanting to understand Isan’s ancient roots, from dinosaurs to early civilization.
Nature & Adventure
1. Khon Kaen Zoo
- A family friendly location for your holidays, it’s not as large as Chiang Mai Zoo but it’s an important local attraction for both tourists and residents,
- You can watch animal shows provided in the zoo, keep in mind that you must check schedule at the entrance before so you can manage your plan while in the zoo.
- Aquarium and reptile sections are available in the zoo, and they are top attractions.
- It takes around 2-3 hours to explore the entire zoo without attending any animal shows.
- The entrance fee is 50–100 THB per adult
2. Nam Phong National Park
- Nam Phong National Park was established to preserve the Khorat Plateau’s unique forest ecosystem, rivers, and wildlife.
- The park is named after the Nam Phong River, which flows through its valleys. It protects dry dipterocarp forests, small waterfalls, and limestone hills that are typical of northeastern Thailand.
- It’s an ideal location for hiking and adventure because of the scenic views, caves, and viewpoints. During your hike you can also spot different wildlife roaming around
2. Phu Wiang National Park
- This place is internationally famous for its dinosaur fossil discoveries. In the 1970s, Thai paleontologists found bones of previously unknown dinosaur species, making it one of the most important paleontological sites in Southeast Asia.
- Phuwiangosaurus sirindhornae is the name of the unknown dinosaur they found, it’s named in honor of Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.
- The national park also has Dinosaur Museum, showcasing real fossils, casts, and detailed exhibits about prehistoric life in Thailand.
4. Hin Chang Si Viewpoint
- A natural rock formation and scenic lookout located near Ubolratana Dam.
- Its name translates roughly to “Elephant-Colored Rock,” due to the formation’s shape resembling elephants.
- The site is part of the surrounding forested hills and limestone terrain, offering visitors a glimpse into the geological and natural beauty of northeastern Thailand.
- It’s considered one of the famous locations for short hiking in Khon Kaen.
How to get to and get around Khon Kaen?
- By Air: Daily flights from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Hat Yai.
- By Train: Overnight trains from Bangkok (~7–8 hours).
- By Bus: Frequent buses from Bangkok’s Mo Chit terminal (~6–7 hours).
- Around Town: Songthaews (shared pickup trucks), tuk-tuks, and Grab taxis are the most convenient.
Travel tips
- Best Time to Visit: November to February, when the weather is cooler and festival season starts.
- Budget: Street food meals cost around 50–100 THB, while sit-down restaurants average 150–300 THB per person.
- Khon Kaen locals are proud of their Isan identity. Don’t miss a mor lam performance or try speaking a few Isan words for a warm welcome.
Khon Kaen is considered the heart and soul of Isan, with a perfect combination of modern and traditional. With many interesting places to explore whether it is an ancient temple, a night market, an authentic Isan restaurant, or national park. Here at Khon Kaen, it promises a travel experience that’s both authentic and unforgettable.