Thailand

Located in the northeastern region of Thailand between Vientiane and Bangkok, Khon Kaen represents the fourth largest city in Isaan. Hence its designation as the "Big Four of Isan." It is the capital of Khon Kaen Province, with approximately 200,000 inhabitants. It is crossed by the Chi River to the south and on its eastern part.

Due to its possession of the largest university in the region, it directly attracts for its youthful environment and relaxed atmosphere. Khon Kaen is a serene city still relatively unexplored by tourists. Yet, its history, culture, landscape, and activities are truly compelling, making it of great interest in discovering Isaan.

History

In the 20th century AD, monks spent the night near a tree stump after transporting Buddha relics to Phrathat Phanom. When they left, the tree began to grow again after some time. They saw this phenomenon as a miracle and decided to build the Phrathat Kham Kaen Sanctuary to house their relics.

In 1783, Rajakruluang settled in the province's first city and was appointed the region's first governor by King Rama I.

In 1789, leader Suwannaphum created the city of Kham Kaen in place of the stupa to pay homage to the sanctuary. From that time until 1879, the city was relocated six times before settling in its final seat at Nuang Kawhe.

At the beginning of the 20th century, the city became the administrative center of the region and changed its name. It became Khon Kaen.

Khon Kaen Today

The city currently represents the central point of the northern half of Thailand. Indeed, it is recognized as the administrative, educational, and commercial center of Isaan. Moreover, it is home to the largest university in the region.

The quality of its silk is praised in the country. Its silk textile industry has brought fame to the city by producing quality products that are always in high demand. Khon Kaen now benefits from modern infrastructure while retaining its old-world charm.

Exploring the city

Start your tour by visiting the monuments in the city. They are an essential passage to understanding the culture and history of Khon Kaen.

The National Museum

This is the first place to visit to discover the history and secrets of the region. It preserves all the remnants of the historical eras that have marked the city and its province.

Temples and Sanctuaries

Some monuments testify to the Khmer influence that dominated the city until the reign of King Rama I.

Wat Nong Wang

This is the most famous Buddhist temple in the city. This royal temple is located on the southern axis of the city, on the shore of Lake Kaen Nakhon. Its Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon stupa with pyramid architecture is a nine-story structure that offers superb views of the city.

Wat Chetyyaphum

This temple is highly revered by the locals. For this reason, its sacred stupa called Phrathat Kham Kaem, built in the 12th century, is the very symbol of the province.

Chao Por Lak Muang Khon Kaen Shrine

This shrine, which houses the city pillar, is an important stop in your exploration. The place is sublime and forms both a temple and a park in the middle of a beautiful illuminated garden.

To enrich your culture, do not hesitate to explore other temples in the city, such as: Wat Pho Ban Nontan, Pu Khru Yen Shrine, Mahesak Shrine, City Pillar Shrine, the Vietnamese temple One Pillar Pagoda, Wat Pa Saeng Arun, and Wat Chai Si, which is famous for its magnificent murals.

During your stay, do not forget to take a walk along Lake Kaen Khon. It is the perfect place to enjoy outdoor activities or simply to relax and unwind.

If you want to experience local cuisine, do not hesitate to visit the Ton Tann night market. It is the perfect place to taste the region's specialty. You will be amused to discover the delights and flavors of Isaan in a spectacular atmosphere.

Climate

Khon Kaen has a tropical savanna climate. Heat is present throughout the year, with an average of 28.4°C, but summers are rainy and winters are dry. Over the year, the average precipitation is 1,956.1 mm. They are more significant in September, with an average of 380.5 mm.

Winter is practically spared from rain. Precipitation averages only 4.5 mm in December, which is the driest month. It is also the coldest month, but the temperature is still mild, with an average of 23.8°C. However, it reaches an average of 32.3°C in April, which is the hottest month.

Given the absence of rain and the constant heat, it is preferable to visit Khon Kaen in winter. The best time to visit the city is from November to March.

How to get to Khon Kaen?

This fourth city in Thailand is well served by the country's transport. It is connected to all the major neighboring cities.

From Bangkok, you can reach the city by plane, train, or bus.

From Chiang Mai, available transportation includes buses and planes.

From Tak, the night bus takes 7 hours to reach the city.

From Vientiane, you can take the train to Nong Khai.

However, if you are coming from the southern part, it is advisable to first go to Bangkok to reach Khon Kaen.

How to get around the city?

You have several transportation options to get around the city:

Tuk-tuk: Remember to negotiate the fare for your journey before getting into these tricycles:

Songthaeo: These modified pick-up trucks follow a fixed route and stop on demand;

Samlor or motorcycle taxi: This is a convenient and fast option for getting around the city;

Of course, you can explore the city on foot, provided you respect safety rules.