Joanna James
Located in the northeast of Thailand, a region known as Isaan' Khon Kaen is one of the more unique Thai experiences available. Unlike the rest of Thailand, Khon Kaen's sights haven't been well-worn by tourists so you will be witnessing something not everyone is guaranteed in the country.
The lake Bueng Kaen Nakhon is located towards the southeast of Khon Kaen and is one of the most distinct features in Khon Kaen and a must-visit site if you are looking for things to do in Khon Kaen. It is about 4 km long and is a great location for the whole family. You can hire out bicycles or go for a nice stroll together with your significant other. Fishing is also possible and there are rentals available, but you can only fish on the southeast side of the lake.
A giant patella bone was discovered by a geologist at Phu Wiang in 1976. After palaeontologists carried out a dig in the area, they managed to unearth a 15 m herbivore that was named after Princess Sirindhorn of Thailand. Today the National Park continues to inspire palaeontologists and dinosaur-enthusiasts and there's so much to explore in the area including a partial skeleton of a distant ancestor of Tyrannosaurus Rex. There is a museum and a visitor centre that children would love, especially if they are in their dinosaur phase.
If you are staying at Avani Khon Kaen Hotel & Convention Centre make sure you take some time off during your holiday to check out the Khon Kaen City Museum. The museum is called a Treasure Hall in traditional Thai and houses many historical artefacts from all over the region. It is a great resource for students who study the history of Khon Kaen as the collection is quite elaborate including exhibits from prehistoric to modern times. The exhibitions themselves are extremely accessible and interactive.
Heaven Beach or Hat Sawan is part of the Ubonratana District in Khon Kaen, close to the dam. The beach is not visible during the rainy season which makes it an even more rare location to visit. It is a popular destination for families who go to spend the day on floats that during the rainy season are elevated on bamboo poles over the water. You can also go banana boat riding at Hat Sawan Beach.
No trip to a city in Thailand is complete without a visit to a temple. Wat Thung Setthi is distinct thanks to its white, gold and blue structures. The temple is surrounded by intricate statues and overlooks a waterway like a white marble palace from an ancient fantasy world. The temple makes a great spot for some ethereal photographs especially for your Instagram but remember that it is a place of worship so make sure that you treat it with respect.
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