Khon Kaen is the commercial,administrative an educational
centre of the Northeast,which is often used by travellers as a base for visiting many parts of  upper Isan.
Khon Kaen National Museum houses objects from the Dvaravati period
and bronze sculptures from Ban Chiang. Kaen Nakhon Lake in the centre
of town is a popular spot for picnics and dining,while Wat That on its
bank features typical Isan spires.
Khon Kaen is the centre of the northeastern silk industry with
numerous villages producing their own mudmee designs. Chonnabot is
noted for its quality silks. Every December the city hosts a Silk
Fair,when all the best materials are on sale.
Unusual animals are popular in the province,with the cobra and the
turtle villages high on tourist programmes. In both villages, the
residents live with their proteges,training them and putting on
fascinating shows. A dinosaur is the provincial symbol ever since
remains of these great beasts were unearthed in Phu Wiang National
Park,an area also famous for its flora,fauna and waterfalls.
 Khon
Kaen is 445 kilometres from Bangkok and has an area of about 10,886
square kilometres. It comprises the districts of Muang, Ban Phai, Phon,
Nam Phong, Chum Phae, Phu Wiang, Mancha Khiri, Nong Ruea, Kranuan, Nong
Song Hong, Chonnabot, Si Chomphu, Waeng Noi, Ubolratana, Ban Fang, Khao
Suan Kwang, Phra Yuen, Waeng Yai, Pueai Noi, Phu Pha Man, Khok Pho
Chai, Nong Na Kham, Sam Sung and Ban Haet. |
