Joanna James
As one of Thailand's most scenic tourist hotspots, Khon Kaen is home to a plethora of historic and recreational attractions. Here are seven not-to-miss points of interest in the area.
Believed to have served as a prehistoric human dwelling as early as 10th century AD, Non Mueang Ancient Town is a must-visit highlight for all culture buffs touring Khon Kaen. The town's main attractions are the bronze utensils and human skeletal remains which were unearthed in recent times and believed to be at least 2500 years old. The Sema boundary indicators in the classic Dvaravati style is another feature of note in this historic area where potsherds were also uncovered with some coloured in bright red and others with patterns and decorative incisions.
Also called Ku Ban Na Kham Noi, Ku Praphachai is a one of a kind tower built in a style that closely resembles Khmer architecture. Built during the 13th century when King Jayavarman VII rules over the Khmer Empire which also included parts of Thailand, the tower is made almost entirely of sandstone and laterite bricks. The Buddha image, as well as the sacred stone which is found in the main altar of the temple near the tower, are other points of interest worthy of exploration when touring the confines of Ku Praphachai.
Regarded as the most expansive and best-preserved Khmer site in all of Khon Kaen, Prasat Pueai Noi is no ordinary landmark in northern Thailand. Constructed in the 16th or 17th century, the vast religious site is known to have hosted countless spiritual celebrations and festivals in its complex history. The four structures within the compound are made using bricks, sandstone and laterite while the main highlights at the venue include the 800-year-old pagoda at its centre and the Buddha Image hall.
Constructed in 1997, the Hong Mun Mang Khon Kaen City Museum remains one of Khon Kaen's most illustrious cultural institutions to date. Housing an impressive collection of cultural relics, artefacts and remnants, the museum serves as a resource centre for those who wish to learn the legacy of the city. The venue is also the best place to learn of the ethnic groups that make up the social fabric of the city as well as their many traditions and way of life.
Nature-lovers should not miss the chance to spend a day at the breathtaking Ba Luang Waterfall Forest Park when in Khon Kaen. Occupying pride of place close to the Pah Dong Moon National Reserved Forest, the nature reserve which earned its protected status as early as 1983 is the ideal refuge for hiking enthusiasts and trekkers. Those based at the AVANI Khon Kaen Hotel & Convention Centre or any other hotel in Khon Kaen Thailand can organize a tour of the forest park through their hotel.
Travellers looking for a truly local shopping experience in Khon Kaen will find no finer alternative to the Laeng Market. Lined with stalls selling food and desserts that are local delicacies, the Laeng Market is a great place to stock up on clothing items and dine on Thai speciality dishes at the same time.
As the sole water park in north-eastern reaches of the country, the Dino Water Park is a fantastic highlight that's suitable for families, couples and single travellers heading to Khon Kaen. With its own Lazy River, Wave Pool, Space Boat, Windigo and a family rafting hub the splash centre is a true treat for the senses for those looking to cool off after a bout of sightseeing.
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