Located in the northeast region of Thailand between Vientiane and Bangkok, Khon Kaen represents the fourth city of Isaan. Hence its name “Big Four of Isan”. It is the capital of Khon Kaen province with about 200,000 inhabitants. It is crossed by the Chi River in the south and on its eastern part.

Since it has the largest university in the region, it directly appeals for its youthful environment and laid-back vibe. Khon Kaen is a serene town still uncrowded by tourists. However, its history, culture, landscape and activities are really interesting and it is of great interest in the discovery of Isan.

In the 20th century AD, monks spent the night near a tree stump after carrying Buddha relics to Phrathat Phanom. When they left, the tree started to grow again after a while. They then saw this phenomenon as a miracle and decided to build the Phrathat Kham Kaen sanctuary to deposit their relics.

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

In 1789, ruler Suwannaphum created the city Kham Kaen in place of the stupa to pay homage to the shrine. From that time until 1879, the city was transferred six times before finding its definitive seat in Nuang Kawhe.

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

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

The quality of its silk is advocated in the country. Its silk textile industry has made the city famous by producing quality products that are still very popular. Khon Kaen now benefits from a modern infrastructure while retaining its charm of yesteryear.

How to get there ?
This fourth city of Thailand is very well served by transport in the country. It is connected to all the major neighboring towns.

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

– From Chiang Mai, the transport available is the bus and the plane;

– From Tak, the night bus takes 7 hours to arrive in the city;

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

However, if you are coming from the southern part, it is better to go to Bangkok first to come to Khon Kaen

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