Phra That Kham Kaen

Phra That Kham Kaen, a 40-minute drive northeast of the city, is considered one of Isan’s most sacred shrines and is said to mark the origins of Khon Kaen itself. The temple was built on the site of a dead tamarind tree that miraculously came back to life, inspiring local pilgrims to construct the temple and house relics of the Buddha in it. The recently renovated shrine is a fine example of the northeastern architectural style – check out the distinctive roof – and has a handsome, gold-tipped chedi (stupa)at its heart.