Joanna James
Found 450 km north northeast of Bangkok is Khon Kaen which is one of the four leading cities of Isan. To the ardent traveller, the city affords varying ways to learn of its stunning cultural presence.
Declared open by King Bhumibol Adulyadej on the 20th of December 1972, the Khon Kaen National Museum must be marked out clearly on one's travel itinerary for a number of reasons. Firstly, upon entry one will begin uncovering fascinating features of the region's history and its present where artifacts and exhibits will further bring to light life as it was during the Khmer period. Secondly, time at the Museum will prove to be quite a refreshing experience and in short, is sure to stimulate a keen interest in what lies ahead on one's journey within Khon Kaen.
Go back in time to the days of the Khmer Empire and let your senses be seduced and overwhelmed by the sheer pageantry on show at Prasat Pueai Noi which is the largest Khmer sanctuary in the region. Thought to have seen the light of day between the 16th and 17th centuries, this cultural marvel features 3 main buildings and a library which is encircled by a moat that represents Mount Sumeru. Having functioned as a place where Hindu rituals were carried out, a more somber atmosphere will greet travellers enthused about history and heritage.
Housing an impressive collection of priceless artwork together with numerous relics which detail the teachings of the Buddha, Nong Waeng Temple is one attraction that must not be missed out on. One reason being is that most visitors look to the Temple as a means of reaching its summit in order to take in the surrounding vistas of the city. What's more? The shrine's murals pay tribute to local history with depictions relating to everyday life in Thailand displayed in no uncertain manner.
Believed to be the largest water park in Northeastern Thailand, the Dino Water Park which is found on 12 acres of land welcomes thrill-seekers from all corners of the globe, regardless of one's age. Designed to a concept which mirrors a Dinosaur theme and 'Splash Adventure' in its entirety, Dino Water Park is made up of 8 different zones which in turn, afford a series of giant water slides to be delighted in for hours on end. If holidaying in Khon Kaen with the family, then be sure to check out this absorbing tourist hotspot.
Found down Mitraphap Road is the strikingly irresistible Ton Tann Market which can make for quite the leisure trip indeed. Opening its doors daily from 4.30 pm up until 12 am, the Market overflows with a range of fresh food stalls where salads and barbeque squid will be but the 'tip of the iceberg' in terms of the local fare on offer here. The shops sell almost everything that you can think of and can provide plenty of souvenir ideas to take back home.
Looking to go camping and trekking? Then make a beeline towards the sublime Phu Pha Man National Park which will let you explore caves, steep cliffs, and awe-inspiring waterfalls. Nestled 100 km west of Khon Kaen, visitors can look forward to reaching the Tat Yai Waterfall which rises to an imposing 260 feet in the air but not before moving into the Park's Lai Thaeng Cave where an array of rock paintings dating back over 2,000 years can be witnessed.
Settle down to some retail therapy in true Khon Kaen style at the Central Plaza Khon Kaen which is also found close to Avani Khon Kaen Hotel & Convention Centre that has its own Khon Kaen hotel offers to avail of. Central Plaza allows for time to be spent surrounded by some of the world's most talked-about brands and accessories and also, has access to dining facilities to all but complete a fulfilling time indeed.
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