Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Lorraine Aust, Somchai Boonmee
13/08/2025
Una Baufala, Pexels
Khon Kaen offers an authentic glimpse into Thai life beyond the typical tourist trails, blending modern city amenities with rich local culture and accessible natural attractions. It serves as a vibrant hub for those exploring Thailand's Isan region, providing cultural immersion, local culinary experiences, and opportunities for outdoor activities.
For social interaction, the city's lively night markets, such as Ton Taan Night Market and the Saturday Night Market, are popular spots for both locals and visitors to enjoy street food, shopping, and live music in a relaxed atmosphere. The Pracha Samran Road area, particularly around the Pullman Hotel, features a concentration of bars and clubs catering to a younger crowd and also some venues popular with foreign visitors.
Top 5 Things to do in Khon Kaen
One can experience Khon Kaen's blend of spiritual tranquility, historical insights, vibrant local life, and unique prehistoric heritage.
1. Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon (Wat Nong Waeng)
One can ascend the impressive nine-story pagoda, Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon, located within Wat Nong Waeng. Each floor features intricate murals and exhibitions detailing Buddhist history and Isan culture. From the ninth floor, one is rewarded with panoramic views of Khon Kaen city and the tranquil Bueng Kaen Nakhon lake, offering a serene vantage point. Dressing modestly, covering shoulders and knees, is recommended out of respect, and shoes must be removed before entering.
Cost: Entry is free of charge.
Transport: The temple is centrally located by Bueng Kaen Nakhon lake. From the city center, one can easily take a tuk-tuk, costing approximately 60-80 Baht, or a local songthaew for around 8 Baht.
2. Bueng Kaen Nakhon Lake
Strolling around Bueng Kaen Nakhon Lake offers a peaceful retreat. The path circling the lake is ideal for a leisurely walk or run, especially as the sun sets. The area is dotted with local shrines and temples, and a small night food market often sets up in the afternoons, providing an opportunity to enjoy street food in a relaxed environment.
Cost: Access to the lake area is free. Costs apply for food from market stalls or for renting boats.
Transport: The lake is centrally located within Khon Kaen city and is often within walking distance from many accommodations. Tuk-tuks and songthaews are readily available if needed.
3. Ton Taan Night Market
Immerse oneself in the lively atmosphere of Ton Taan Night Market, Khon Kaen's largest and busiest night market. It features a wide array of local street food, artisan crafts, clothing, and live music. The market is well-zoned, making it easy to explore different sections, from food stalls to boutique shops. It's a great spot to experience local Thai life and enjoy an evening out.
Cost: Entry to the market is free. Costs for food, drinks, and shopping vary, but are generally affordable.
Transport: Located on Mittraphap Street, the market is accessible by tuk-tuk or taxi. Depending on one's accommodation, a songthaew might also be an option. It is open daily from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
4. Khon Kaen National Museum
Delve into the rich history and culture of the Isan region at the Khon Kaen National Museum. It houses a diverse collection of artifacts ranging from prehistoric times, including dinosaur skeletons, to historical periods like Dvaravati, Sukhothai, and Ayutthaya. The exhibits offer insights into the geography, archaeology, and ethnology of Northeast Thailand, making it an informative stop for history enthusiasts.
Cost: Admission for foreigners is 100 Baht.
Transport: The museum is situated on Lang Suanrachakarn Road. It can be reached by tuk-tuk or taxi from most parts of the city. The museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
5. Phu Wiang Dinosaur Museum
Venture outside the city to the Phu Wiang Dinosaur Museum, a testament to Khon Kaen's unique prehistoric past as 'Thailand's Dinosaur City'. The museum, located near Phu Wiang National Park, displays significant dinosaur fossils discovered in the area, offering a fascinating look at ancient wildlife. The surrounding national park also provides opportunities to explore natural attractions.
Cost: An estimated cost for foreigners is around 30 Baht for the museum, though park entry might be separate.
Transport: The museum is approximately 80 km northwest of Khon Kaen city. One can take a public bus from Khon Kaen's old bus station to Phu Wiang town, then a local tuk-tuk to reach the museum and National Park. Having private transport is considerably easier for this excursion.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
