Issan (or northeastern Thailand) was home to a number of ancient civilizations including those of the Ban Chiang, Dhavaravati, Lopburi and Khmer eras. Khon Kaen played an important role in the area’s history and today hosts the Khon Kaen National Museum – a key museum containing artifacts gathered from important archaeological sites in the area (in particular, finds from Ban Chiang in Udon Thani province – now a UNESCO heritage site). The museum displays a range of items including ancient bas relief, marble slabs (or Sema), stuccos, and items such as ancient tools. The museum also hosts exhibitions of dinosaur fossils and human skeletons alongside displays of pottery, ancient musical instruments and a number of other items including Buddha images. A fascinating museum if you are interested in the region’s history - still a good place to visit if you are just looking for a half day out.
Details: The museum is open Wed - Sun 9.00 - 12.00 and 13.00 - 16.00. The admission fee 5 baht (Only Sat - Sun), foreigner fee 10 baht (Only Sat - Sun).
How to get there: The museum is located in the north of Khon Kaen and is easily accessible by Songtaew (20 Baht).
Contact:
Khon Kaen National Museum
Lang Sun Ratchakan Road
Khon Kaen
Tel: (043)236741
Hotels in the Khon Kaen National Museum locality 
Restaurants and bars in the Khon Kaen National Museum locality 
