KHONKAEN SMART TRAVEL CALENDAR - November
KHONKAEN SMART TRAVEL CALENDAR - November
Tradition
Month 12 (November): Bun Kathin and Loy Krathong Festival
The Bun Kathin ceremony takes place after the three-month Buddhist Lent. During the Lent, monks wear their robes continuously, which may become worn. Therefore, laypeople organize the Kathin ceremony to offer new robes (Kathin cloth) to the monks. Anyone with faith may submit a request (salak or registration form) to the temple to reserve their offering, as each temple is allowed to receive only one Kathin offering per year.
The Loy Krathong Festival is a tradition rooted in Indian beliefs, centered around paying respect and offering apologies to Phra Mae Khongkha, the goddess of the Ganges River, who is believed to originate from heaven. It is also a time for people to reflect on the importance and blessings of water in sustaining life.
Festival
Chinese Opera Festival
Red Cross Fair
Seasonal tourist attractions organized exclusively during festival periods
November 1–10: Khon Kaen Chinese Opera & Red Cross Fair
Also known as the Pueng Tao Kong Ma Shrine Festival, this annual event is held in Khon Kaen and features a wide variety of activities. Highlights include traditional Chinese opera performances, Likay (Thai folk theater), Mo Lam (Isan folk music), outdoor movie screenings, singing contests, and sports competitions. The event takes place at...
Pueng Tao Kong–Ma Shrine, Khon Kaen
Located by Bueng Kaen Nakhon Lake, this important Chinese shrine houses the deities Pueng Tao Kong-Ma, the Goddess Thapthim (Mazu), and the Wealth God Caishen. Visitors commonly come to pray for blessings related to luck, health, and prosperity.
The shrine is open daily from approximately 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and admission is free.
Every early November, the shrine hosts the grand Chinese Opera and Red Cross Fair, featuring sacred rituals, dragon and lion parades, and spectacular Chinese opera performances.
Tourist Attractions
Wat Srinuan (also known as “Wat Nai”)
Wat Srinuan is an ancient temple and one of the historical landmarks of Khon Kaen, established around 1802 B.E. (A.D. 1782). It is located north of Bueng Kaen Nakhon Lake. The temple is notable for its ancient boundary stone pillars (sema), and a rare Buddha image known as the “Buddha Opening the World.” Inside, there is an old ordination hall (ubosot), traditional folk murals, and a statue of the revered Luang Pu Phang.
The temple is open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM with free admission. It serves as a center for Buddhist studies and is an important venue for significant ceremonies in Khon Kaen. Wat Srinuan is ideal for those interested in merit-making and Isan art and culture.
Khon Kaen–Nanning Friendship Park
Located by Bueng Kaen Nakhon Lake, this Thai-Chinese cultural park was built to strengthen the sister-city relationship between Khon Kaen and Nanning. The park features traditional Chinese-style pavilions, the Moon Bridge, sculptures of Chinese deities, and picturesque photo spots set in a serene, shaded atmosphere.
The park is open daily from approximately 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (hours may vary) with free admission. It is ideal for relaxation, strolling, and taking photos with a Chinese cultural theme.
Mong Hian Hu
Mong Hian Hu is a learning center and co-working space operated by the Bank of Thailand’s Northeastern Regional Office. It is located on Nikorn Samran Road, Khon Kaen.
The center is open Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (closed on bank holidays). It offers free access to books, meeting rooms, and various activity areas. Mong Hian Hu is ideal for students, learners, and the general public seeking a quiet place to read or collaborate.
Restaurant
Thong Garden
A well-known Thai-Chinese restaurant in Khon Kaen, offering a relaxed atmosphere perfect for lunch or dinner. The signature dishes include a variety of Thai-Chinese cuisine and traditional Chinese banquet meals.
Location: Mittraphap Road, Nai Mueang Subdistrict, Mueang Khon Kaen District
Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Refill.Coffee
A trendy loft-style café in Khon Kaen, founded by Thai actor Bank–Thiti Mahayotaruk. The café is known for its variety of coffee and delicious desserts.
Location: 406 Nai Mueang Subdistrict, Mueang Khon Kaen District
Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on Wednesdays)
Phone: 06-4141-5146
Hotels and Accommodations
Mantra Varee Hotel, Khon Kaen
A 4-star hotel located in the heart of Khon Kaen, close to Bueng Kaen Nakhon and Central Plaza. The hotel offers modern rooms, a swimming pool, and a fitness center—ideal for both tourists and business travelers.
Address: 78/9 Chuan Chuen Road, Nai Mueang Subdistrict, Mueang Khon Kaen District
Check-in: 2:00 PM | Check-out: 12:00 PM