Joanna James
As the 4th largest city in Thailand and the capital of Khon Kaen Province, Khon Kaen is a medley of year-round festivals, comfy coffee shops and a host of other cultural edifices worth checking out.
Zone in on and select from a wide array of odds and ends when at Khon Kaen’s very own Walking Street Market which will certainly be a wonderful introduction to the area. Though, showcasing some reference to touristy weekend markets that you will come into contact with when in Chiang Mai, Walking Street Market is an adventure that will leave you with a newfound love for Khon Kaen’s culture and its people. Spread out across Th Na Sunratchakan, the marketplace is more or less infested with vendors attempting to strike up a deal, regardless of the time of day. While numerous musicians, dancers and buskers can be pictured at various sections and corners of the market, visitors will be able to walk under Chinese-styled lanterns which cover their entirety while deciding on which t-shirt, handbag or handmade product to purchase.
Undoubtedly, the most laidback and perhaps, captivating sight in all of Khon Kaen is Bueng Kaen Nakhon. Ideally suiting those vacationers and locals wishing to get away from it all, this lake which covers a colossal 100 hectares offers a series of popular pastimes to while away the hours with. The mix of pathways and lanes which branch out from along its shore can be considered starting points to covering more of Khon Kaen but before you leave, be sure to have walked the length and breadth of the lake; an endeavour that would not exhaust more than 45 minutes of your time. If here during the evening, then you can toy with the thought of hiring a pedal boat or bike from the facilitators located near Rim Bueng Market and begin exploring every inch there is to beautiful Bueng Kaen Nakhon.
Go back in time to the good old days while still not losing sight of the present day and age when at Khon Kaen National Museum. Found expertly showcasing a dazzling display of artefacts that marry the old with the new, this cultural marvel cannot be missed out on when one is based at a hotel Khon Kaen has to offer such as Avani Khon Kaen Hotel & Convention Centre. Be it the eye-catching Dvaravati bai sair mah which portrays Princess Pimpa cleaning the feet of the Buddha with her hair, detailed pottery from the Ban Chiang era, agricultural tools that were once put to excellent use to household items; the artefacts at Khon Kaen National Museum are truly well worth pouring over when one is on holiday in this part of Thailand.
Accessible upon reaching the south end of Bueng Kaen Nakhon, the gleaming and astounding structure of Wat Nong Wang will come into focus. As the city’s prized possession, the shrine features a series of highlights including priceless paintings which bring to light the history of Khon Kaen coupled with the distinct elements of the Isan culture. At the heart of this attraction is a glorious 9-storey stupa where various traditions and customs are practised that will serve as a prelude to what lies ahead. On the 4th floor is a range of rare Buddha images while on the 9th floor, an observation deck will offer you views of the surrounding environs.
Breathe in an air of modernity and exclusivity no sooner you set foot inside Central Plaza Khon Kaen which is a favourite hangout for some retail therapy. As the biggest shopping centre in the area, avid shoppers will be motivated by the sheer volume of international brands and complementing accessories that are housed here.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
