Optimize your time in Khon Kaen with cost-free activities
Make the most of your study abroad experience in Khon Kaen with this list of free things to do. This series highlights activities right in USAC host cities that don’t cost a penny, so you can save money while immersing in the local culture.
Known for the traditional Isan culture, beautiful Mudmee silks, dinosaur fossils, and ancient temples, Khon Kaen, Thailand (pronounced “con-cane”) is the perfect place to explore culture and history. Whether you’re checking out a museum or just taking a stroll through a neighborhood, you’re sure to love Khon Kaen. Here are six things to do that won’t break the bank.
#1: Explore markets by day or by night
Khon Kaen is home to many markets, and there are several right on the Khon Kaen University (KKU) campus. Choose to spend the evening at 62 Blocks Night Market with friends, double up your exploring by visiting KKU Flea Market and Si Than Lake (located right next to each other), or immerse yourself in authentic Thai culture at Mor Din Daeng Market just outside campus. You’re bound to have a great time exploring these markets and getting to know your host city.
There are also plenty of other markets beyond campus, like Ton Tann with its 400 shops and live music, the lakefront Ruen Rom Night Bazaar, or Walking Street.
Visit just one market or try them all — no matter what you do, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in Khon Kaen and Isan culture.
#2: Discover photo spots at Kaen Nakhon Lake
The walking path around Kaen Nakhon lake is more than just a trail — you’ll discover fun statues and art displays as you walk. Keep an eye out for the dinosaur statues (there are several), and don’t miss the chance to pose in front of the Khon Kaen sign.
#3: Exercise or relax right on the KKU campus at the Smart Flower Farm or Si Than Lake activity yard
KKU boasts many green spaces to relax, exercise, or spend time with friends. The Smart Flower farm features a track with scenic views, while the Si Than Lake activity yard is a popular spot for locals and students to gather, have a picnic, or fly kites.
#4: Have an introspective experience at a temple or shrine
Khon Kaen is home to more than 15 temples, called wats. Standing at nine stories tall, Wat Nong Wang temple is perhaps the most iconic in the region, and it offers a panoramic view of the city from the top levels. It’s also next to Kaen Nahon lake, so when you finish exploring, you can enjoy a nice stroll along the water’s edge.
The city pillar shrine of San Lak Mueang is a shrine tucked inside a small park in the center of the city. Locals light incense and make offerings at the shrine, so remember to be respectful as you visit — you can even give a wai in greeting to the people you meet there.
When entering any wat, remember to cover your shoulders and knees. In fact, some places won’t even allow you to enter until you follow the dress code.
#5: Take a stroll through Bueng Thung Sang Health Garden
This lovely garden boasts extensive topiary and landscaping, making it a great location for a walk with friends. From mid-December to mid-January, there’s also a stunning flower show with massive floral arrangements — making it an ideal place to snap a selfie.
#6: Dive into the Thai art scene at a museum right on campus
Hidden right on the KKU campus, the Art and Culture University Museum features a diverse collection of art, history, and geography of Northeast Thailand. The building’s exterior was designed to look like a traditional Isan rice barn, but once you step inside, you’ll find a contemporary atmosphere with new exhibits every month.
#7: Check out the cozy art space at Columbo Craft Village
Designed to look like a village, Columbo Craft Village is one of Khon Kaen’s hidden gems, offering a different look at Thai lifestyle and culture.
The artistic atmosphere features artisan shops, cozy cafés, local crafts, and cultural events, making it a unique alternative to a traditional shopping mall, and the perfect place to spend an afternoon getting lost.
#8: Experience the Silk Festival in fall or the Khon Kaen Marathon in spring
No matter when you choose to study in Khon Kaen, you’ll find exciting opportunities. Here are two events that only happen once a year:
- For students studying in the fall term: Experience the Silk and Phuk Siao Festival in November. It’s one of Khon Kaen’s biggest cultural events, focused on the traditional Isan friendship rite called Phuk Siaw, where friends tie white strings around each other’s wrists to signify their lifelong bond. You also see Mudmee silks decorating the streets, parades, dancing, Isan music performances, and more.
- For students studying in the spring term: Check out the Khon Kaen Marathon in January. KKU hosts the annual Khon Kaen International Marathon (KKIM), one of the largest and most prestigious running events in Northeastern Thailand. Whether you choose to participate in a fun run, full marathon, or just spectate, you’re bound to be swept up in the excitement as thousands of runners from around the world head to Khon Kaen.
Explore your options
- Khon Kaen, Thailand
- Academic areas:
Business, Management, and Marketing
Communications, Media, and Journalism
Culture, Identity, and Society
Education and Human Services
Environment, Natural Science, and Biotechnology
World Language Skills
Health Sciences, Psychology, and Public Health
History, Politics, and Law
