New Program: Khon Kaen, Thailand

Thailand has quickly become one of our most popular study abroad destinations. In fact, it’s notoriously in the top 10 USAC programs that fill every term long before the application deadline.

We love Thailand, you love Thailand, and we wanted to give you more of Thailand! That’s why we’re excited to announce the launch of our newest Thailand study abroad program, Khon Kaen.

Chances are you haven’t heard of Khon Kaen, and that’s okay, actually, that’s what we prefer! We love introducing students to local cities and cultures that aren’t on the tourist radar. This provides the most authentic study abroad experience. Khon Kaen is located in northeastern Thailand and is the largest center of education, healthcare, and technology in the area.

Why study in Khon Kaen?

The colorful, vibrant country of Thailand is considered the “land of smiles,” and for good reason: the friendliness and hospitality of the Thai people, 95 percent of whom are Buddhist, will enrich your experience living there. Khon Kaen is located in the heart of Thailand’s northeast region, well known for the high-quality Mud Mee silk. Historically, Khon Kaen is quite a new town, established a little over two centuries ago. However, prehistorically, this town located on the plateau has been home to various cultures as well as other fascinating creatures unknown to the modern world. The ancient cultures, traditions, and historical sites in this area have all contributed to shaping the local people and culture.

Studying in Khon Kaen with USAC

The USAC program focuses on health, wellness, and culture with courses in Buddhism and Thai Society and Culture, Global Health, Holistic Health, Communications, and Thai Language and Culture. You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in internships in the health and related fields.

In addition, you’ll enjoy a range of USAC field trips and tours that will have you visiting traditional communities and nearby provinces. You’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the ancient cultural traditions and customs through fairs and festivals year-round in a fast-growing city and a gateway to Indo-China.

Field Trips (included in program fees)

Field trips vary based on the term you are studying abroad. Check the USAC website to determine the field trips being offered during your study abroad.

City and Temple Tour

The must-see visit in Khon Kaen includes Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakorn, the nine-story Stupa located in Wat Nong Waeng, a royal temple on Klang Mueang Road where the relics of Lord Buddha and important Buddhist scriptures are located. On the top floor is where you can enjoy the beautiful panoramic view of the city.

Weekend Street Market Walking Tour

Experience the largest local market showcasing the art, craftsmanship, and local delicacies of the Khon Kaen people. Get ready to haggle with the vendors and to take home many special finds!

Ubolratana Dam

Built across the Phong River to Phu Kao and Phu Phan mountains, Ubolratana Dam is the largest multi-purpose dam in the northeast. With the magnificent view, the attraction is one of the perfect spots for tourists and locals to indulge the natural beauty together with local made grilled food available at the site.

Ban Chiang Cultural Conservative Homestay

Have you ever been thrilled by an Indiana Jones movie? Cue the Indiana Jones theme song and visit Ban Chiang in UdonThani province. Anything that settled beneath Ban Chiang is over 5,000 years old. Antiques can be found in every square inch of this archaeological site. UNESCO lists Ban Chiang as an important world heritage site.

Phu Kao-Phu Khan Kham National Park

Established in 1985, Phu Kao-Phu Phan Kham National Park is Thailand’s 50th national park. It covers a total area of 322 square kilometers, with two sandstone mountains blanketed by deciduous and evergreen forests. The park’s headquarters is located near the reservoir of Ubonrattana Dam, close to Phu Khan Kham mountain.

Udon Thani and Nong Khai Provinces

Visit Udon Thani province which houses one of the largest expat populations in Thailand. The tour also visits Nong Khai province which is located on the banks of the Mekong River just across from Vientiane in Laos and is known for dreamy pink sunsets and a sluggish pace of life.

Sakon Nakhon and Nakorn Phanom Provinces

Journey to Nakorn Phanom province where Lao and Vietnamese influences are strong. It is truly a melting pot of diverse ethnic cultures and traditions. On the way to Nakorn Phanom, the trip visits the ancient village at Tha Rare that dates back 100 years ago as its architecture was built in half-French, half-Vietnamese style.

Optional Tours and Field Studies (additional fee)

Trekking Tour

On this optional three-day, two-night tour trek up to the summit of Phu Kradueng, which is 1,325 meters above sea level.  The 60-square-meter top plateau of Phu Kradueng is blessed with beautiful sceneries, pine forests, and wildflowers. Other attractions include Pha Nok Aen, the cliff that offers a breathtaking view of sunrise; Pha Lom Sak, a sandstone ledge providing views of the hills and valleys; and Pha Yiap Mek, where cottony clouds suggest a misty world of shadow figures.

Phu Wiang National Park Tour

Nobody had ever thought the Isan plateau was once the home of dinosaurs until 1976 when a uranium survey team discovered a fossil found to be the knee bone of a dinosaur after being examined by French specialists. In the park, geologists have found many dinosaur fossils. These fossils are now displayed in the museum of the Department of Mineral Resources. Besides fossils of dinosaurs, there are also traces of ancient civilizations.

If you’re looking for a unique Thailand experience look into studying abroad in Khon Kaen!