Joanna James
The third largest city in Thailand’s Northeast region- Isan, Khon Kaen has a long history and has much to offer visiting tourists. Read on to discover the top things to do during your visit to Khon Kaen for an unforgettable holiday experience.
Khon Kaen City’s biggest and most prominent temple, Wat Nong Wang is a must-visit tourist attraction. Built in 1789, the Wat Nong Wang features a stunning nine-story stupa – the Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon. This stupa was built to celebrate the king’s golden jubilee and the 200th birthday of Khon Kaen city. The temple also undertakes charity activities such as running a health care center for the locals without means.
The scenic nature of the Bueng Kaen Nakhon Lake makes it one of the most atmospheric spots in Khon Kaen. The verdant banks of the lake are great for walks, jogging, and bike rides, especially during sunset. The lake is also surrounded by various shrines and temples along with a Cultural Heritage Center. Every evening, a small night food market is set up by the locals and is an excellent place to stop by to indulge in some mouthwatering street food snacks in a peaceful environment. Those keen on enjoying a filling meal following a walk around Kaen Nakhon Lake can head to any one of the great restaurants located in the area. Bueng Kaen Nakhon Lake can be easily reached from hotels in Khon Kaen such as the likes of Avani Khon Kaen Hotel and Convention Centre.
A large outdoor market, surrounded by towering trees, the Ton Taan Night Market offers visitors a lovely experience with its relaxed atmosphere and live music. Here visitors can shop from a wide range of products such as locally made handicrafts, clothing, and jewellery. It's also a go-to spot to enjoy street food as well. The Ton Taan Market is located on Kaen Kaen’s Mittraphap Street and is open to the public from 4 pm to 11.00 pm. If you happen to visit Khon Kean during a weekend, then consider skipping the Ton Taan Night Market, and opt to head to Khon Kaen Walking Street instead. Also known as the Saturday Night Market, the walking street can be found on Na Soon Rachakarn Road every Saturday evening.
Love to hike? Then a trip to Mount Phu Kradueng might be in order. Nature lovers can plan a full-day trip starting from very early in the morning to experience everything this attraction has to offer. Keep in mind that hiking and climbing here can be quite demanding so one should be in reasonably good physical condition. The trail covers a total length of nine kilometres. Locals often climb in the last hours of the night to catch the sunrise from the summit.
Those travelling to Khon Kean with kids in tow should consider visiting the Phu Wiang National Park and Dinosaur Museum. Here one can gain insight into Thailand’s geology and the dinosaurs that lived in the region.
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.
