What is Khon Kaen in Thailand Known For – Striking and Unforgettable Highlights

When it comes to tourist destinations in Thailand, undoubtedly places like Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai often come to mind. However, travellers who seek genuine culture, unsullied nature and a distinctive, vibrant ambience are sure to be enthralled at Khon Kaen, which is also a noteworthy commercial, transportation and educational hub. Some of the key places you should take the opportunity to visit in and around this unique and captivating city are described below. 

Phu Wiang Dinosaur Museum 

An outstanding place to add to your itinerary featuring attractions in Khon Kaen is the engrossing Phu Wiang Dinosaur Museum. As numerous dinosaur fossils have been discovered in the environs of Khon Kaen, it isn’t surprising that the initial dinosaur museum to have been established in Thailand is located here. You will find that the Phu Wiang Dinosaur Museum is beautifully laid out with an array of displays of fossils, dinosaur skeletons, information on different dinosaur species, and interactive exhibits to be seen there.  

Image via Avani Khon Kaen Hotel and Convention Centre

Phu Pha Man

Meanwhile, nature lovers should undoubtedly take the chance to visit the area known as Phu Pha Man, which may be described as a striking mountain locality that presents many interesting sights for the visitor. It is probably best known for its eye-catching limestone cliffs, many of which take unusual shapes such as vast curtains, waterfalls and caves. You may also choose to go kayaking on the picturesque lake to be found here, which is bordered by lush natural surroundings. You can additionally go hiking and camping in this locality if you are so inclined. 

Khon Kaen National Museum 

The Khon Kaen National Museum will be an entrancing highlight for culture and history lovers as it presents a number of engrossing exhibits and displays. The majority of these exhibits relate to history, archaeology and art. In addition to the permanent collection of this museum, you will have the opportunity to view numerous temporary exhibitions, which are staged throughout the course of each year here. An appealingly located hotel in Khon Kaen to consider from which you can easily visit this site is Avani Khon Kaen Hotel & Convention Centre. 

Wat Nong Waeng 

On the other hand, if you have a penchant for fascinating religious attractions, you are sure to be enthralled by the well-known Wat Nong Waeng, which happens to be a royal temple located in Khon Kaen. Undoubtedly, a highlight at this place of worship is Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon, which is a splendid 9-storey stupa situated within the temple compound. Visitors will have the chance to ascend this stupa and take in the appealing views across the city. You can also admire the golden decorations, ornate carvings and captivating murals to be seen within the stupa. 

Ban Khok Sanga King Cobra Village 

An attraction of a very different nature is the amazing Ban Khok Sanga King Cobra Village, which, as you might have deduced, is known for the snakes that are raised there! It is said that virtually each one of the local households rears king cobras beneath their dwelling spaces. Further, various kinds of performances involving snakes are presented here; you will have the chance to observe "snake dancing" as well as other absorbing displays. You may also observe pythons at close quarters at this unique village. 

Tat Fa Waterfall 

Nature enthusiasts will be mesmerised at the splendid Tat Fa Waterfall, which you will find within the well-known Phu Wiang National Park. This remarkable wonder of nature may be regarded as something of a hidden gem, as many visitors typically make their way to the renowned dinosaur sites to be found at this national park. However, if you take the chance to visit Tat Fa Waterfall, you will be struck by the beauty of these multi-tiered falls with their eye-catching cascades and appealing pools.