15 Must-Visit Temples in Khon Kaen for Merit-Making and Sacred Sites, All in One Trip
Khon Kaen is a key city in Northeastern Thailand, with plenty to see, delicious food, and no shortage of sacred temples and beautiful Buddhist architecture—from the 9-storey pagoda beside Bueng Kaen Nakhon to a white, gold, and sky-blue great chedi said to be a point where three worlds connect.
If you’re planning a temple visit in Khon Kaen or want to pay respects to Buddha images in the city, Ocean Property has gathered the must-see temples in Khon Kaen all in one place—plus ready-to-go half-day and full-day trip plans you can choose from.
Key Takeaways
- Khon Kaen is home to important temples, from royal monasteries and ancient Isan architecture to peaceful, shaded meditation retreats.
- Famous temples not to miss: Wat Nong Waeng (the 9-storey pagoda), Wat Phra That Kham Kaen, Wat Thung Setthi, and Wat Pa Saeng Arun.
- Spiritual hotspots and ancient art: Pay respects at the Great Chedi of the Three Worlds and make wishes for fortune at Wat Thung Setthi, or see traditional Isan mural paintings (hoop taem) at Wat Chai Si and Wat Sanuan Wari Phatthana Ram.
- Easy temple-hopping trip plans: Choose a trip that fits your schedule, from a half-day route in the city to a full-day route covering 9 temples.
- A 9-temple route in Khon Kaen might start at Wat Si Chan, a royal monastery, then continue to Wat That, Wat Nong Waeng, Wat Pho Ban Non Than, Wat Pa Saeng Arun, Wat Thung Setthi, the Shiva Mahadeva Shrine, and Wat Pa Tham Utthayan, ending at Wat Chai Si.
1. Wat Nong Waeng Royal Monastery (Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon / The 9-Storey Pagoda)

Image Credit: Facebook Page “Wat Nong Waeng Phra Aram Luang - Wat Nuea”
Wat Nong Waeng is the symbol of Khon Kaen and the first stop for most visitors. Situated beside Bueng Kaen Nakhon, it houses Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon, also known as the 9-storey pagoda, standing 80 metres tall. Buddha relics are enshrined on the 1st and 9th floors, surrounded by an impressive seven-headed naga glass wall, and from the 9th floor you can enjoy panoramic views of Khon Kaen and Bueng Kaen Nakhon.
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Location: 593 Klang Mueang Road, Nai Mueang, Mueang Khon Kaen, Khon Kaen
- Phone: 063-746-8650
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/p/วัดหนองแวง-พระอารามหลวง-พระมหาธาตุ-๙-ชั้น-61554299169848
2. Wat Phra That Kham Kaen (Wat Chetiyaphum)

Image Credit: Facebook Page “Wat Phra That Kham Kaen”
One of Khon Kaen’s most sacred and long-standing temples, featured on the province’s official seal and slogan. The golden pagoda enshrines relics of an arahant, and the site is known for the legend of a dead tamarind stump that came back to life—making it one of the most revered temples in the province.
- Hours: 5:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Location: Ban Kham, Nam Phong, Khon Kaen
- Phone: 04-343-6011
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Prathat.KK
3. Wat Thung Setthi (Maha Chedi Sri Trilokathat)

Image Credit: Facebook Group “Wat Thung Setthi, Khon Kaen”
Wat Thung Setthi is a popular spiritual temple in Khon Kaen, best known for its white, gold, and sky-blue Maha Chedi Sri Trilokathat, built on a spot believed to be where three worlds meet—heaven, the human world, and the underworld. Naga-adorned chedis and a reflecting pond mirror the great chedi beautifully, and it’s a favourite among those wishing for luck and financial fortune.
- Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Location: Phra Lap, Mueang Khon Kaen, Khon Kaen
- Phone: 080-184-2827
- Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/luangta
4. Shiva Mahadeva Shrine, Khon Kaen

Image Credit: Facebook Page “Shiva Mahadeva Shrine, Khon Kaen”
Beyond temples, Khon Kaen also has a sacred site especially for spiritual seekers, where you can pay respects to Lord Shiva, Ganesha, Goddess Uma, and other Hindu deities. The highlight is a replica of the underworld city (the naga realm) and the hell realm, complete with light and sound effects that create a striking atmosphere.
- Hours: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Location: Liang Mueang Road, Sila, Mueang Khon Kaen, Khon Kaen
- Phone: 095-959-8789
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/pagetewalaishivakk
5. Wat Si Chan Royal Monastery

Image Credit: Dhamma Thai website
One of the oldest temples in Khon Kaen city, this third-class royal monastery of the Dhammayut sect was founded in 1825 and sits in the heart of the city on Si Chan Road. It features a beautiful Thai-style ordination hall housing a Buddha image in the Subduing Mara posture—an ideal place to pay respects in the morning and start the day auspiciously.
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Location: Si Chan Road, Nai Mueang, Mueang Khon Kaen, Khon Kaen
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/people/วัดศรีจันทร์-พระอารามหลวง-ขอนแก่น/100077004952041
6. Wat That Royal Monastery

Image Credit: Thai Post website
A sacred temple in the heart of Khon Kaen that enshrines the city’s revered pagoda, located on Klang Mueang Road not far from Wat Nong Waeng—ideal for a continuous route of merit-making stops that brings auspiciousness and prosperity. It’s one of the well-known temples in Khon Kaen province.
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Location: Klang Mueang Road, Nai Mueang, Mueang Khon Kaen, Khon Kaen
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/WatThatKhonKaen
7. Wat Pa Saeng Arun Royal Monastery

Image Credit: CBT Thailand website
Wat Pa Saeng Arun is another of Khon Kaen’s beautiful temples, known for its large Isan-style ordination hall (sim) that blends upper-Isan and central Thai architecture, with interior murals in the mudmee silk pattern unique to Khon Kaen. The temple also has an open-air museum showcasing the lifestyle of Isan farmers—a forest temple that combines Dhamma and art beautifully.
- Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Location: 9/2 Yothathikan, Ban Loeng Pueai, Phra Lap, Mueang Khon Kaen, Khon Kaen
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/p/วัดป่าแสงอรุณ-ขอนแก่น-100083370005661
8. Wat Pho Ban Non Than

Image Credit: Isan Insight website
A temple home to the Phothisangkat meditation hall, also known as the “72-Year Building” of Luang Pu Pho, designed as a replica cave in the middle of a forest and decorated with visionary stucco work and Isan-language Dhamma riddles around the building.
- Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Location: Mueang Khon Kaen, Khon Kaen
- Phone: 043-221-653
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/WadPhothiBanNonThan
9. Wat Pa Tham Utthayan (Luang Phor Kluay Temple)

Image Credit: Facebook Page “Wat Pa Tham Utthayan”
A forest temple in Khon Kaen with a quiet, shaded atmosphere amid green space, away from the bustle of the city. Visitors come to pay respects to Luang Phor Kluay, one of Khon Kaen’s well-known revered monks, and to make wishes for a smooth life and career. Ideal for those who want to rest the mind and enjoy nature while making merit.
- Hours: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Location: Samran, Mueang Khon Kaen, Khon Kaen
- Phone: 095-524-9095
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/WatPaDhammaUtthayan
10. Suan Weluwan Meditation Centre

Image Credit: Suan Weluwan Meditation Centre website
Wat Weluwan in Khon Kaen is a place for those who genuinely want to practise Dhamma, meditate, and rest the mind, set amid shaded nature in Ban Kho. The atmosphere is quiet and ideal for recharging body and mind, away from the city bustle.
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Location: Ban Kho, Mueang Khon Kaen, Khon Kaen
- Phone: 083-662-6363
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/p/ศูนย์ปฏิบัติธรรมสวนเวฬุวัน-จขอนแก่น-สาขาวัดอัมพวัน-จสิงห์บุรี-100064605136001
11. Wat Chai Si

Image Credit: Art and Culture Centre, Khon Kaen University website
An old temple that hides the beauty of an ancient Isan ordination hall (sim) and folk mural paintings (hoop taem) inside—a cultural heritage site worth a visit for anyone interested in traditional Isan art. Not widely known among general tourists, it’s quiet and rich in artistic detail.
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Location: Sawathi, Mueang Khon Kaen, Khon Kaen
- Phone: 04-344-8350
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wad.chiy.sri.sa.wathi
12. Wat Sanuan Wari Phatthana Ram

Image Credit: Thailand Tourism Directory website
This temple in Ban Phai district highlights an ancient Isan ordination hall and hoop taem murals that tell local folk tales such as Sang Sinchai and the realms of hell—perfect for anyone who wants to head out of town to experience authentic Isan art and culture.
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Location: Hua Nong, Ban Phai, Khon Kaen
13. Wat Phra Bat Phu Phan Kham

Image Credit: Facebook Page “Wat Phra Bat Phu Phan Kham - Ubolratana Dam, Khon Kaen”
A hilltop temple known for its large white Buddha image at the summit, offering a stunning panoramic viewpoint of Ubolratana Dam. Ideal for those who want to combine merit-making with scenic views in one place, and one of the most photogenic temples in Khon Kaen at any time of day—easily reached from the city.
- Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Location: Ubolratana Dam, Ubolratana, Khon Kaen
- Phone: 04-344-6091
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/p/วัดพระบาทภูพานคำ-เขื่อนอุบลรัตน์-ขอนแก่น-100064934460620
14. Wat Ku Prapha Chai

Image Credit: CBT Thailand website
An old temple in Khon Kaen with an ancient ku sanctuary resembling a centuries-old stone castle—an interesting archaeological site for history and heritage lovers. The atmosphere is quiet and uncrowded, perfect as a follow-up after visiting the city’s temples if you want to explore further out.
- Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Location: Bua Yai, Nam Phong, Khon Kaen
- Phone: 083-363-4764
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/people/วัดกู่ประภาชัย/100069911774903
15. Wat Pa Manchakhiri

Image Credit: Facebook Page “Wat Pa Manchakhiri, Manchakhiri District, Khon Kaen”
A forest temple in Khon Kaen that serves as a conservation site for rare wild Chang Kra orchids, which cling to large trees and bloom beautifully in the cool season. Best visited between November and January, to enjoy both the wild orchids and the peaceful natural setting for merit-making.
- Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Location: Kut Khao, Manchakhiri, Khon Kaen
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/p/วัดป่ามัญจาคีรี-อำเภอมัญจาคีรี-จังหวัดขอนแก่น-61574529283025
Temple-Hopping Trip Plans in Khon Kaen: Where to Go
Half-Day Khon Kaen Temple Trip (8:30 AM – 12:30 PM): Central City Temples
Ideal for those with limited time or only a short stop in Khon Kaen. Before you go, be sure to read up on how to get to Khon Kaen so you’re fully prepared.
- 8:30 – 9:30 AM – Wat Si Chan Royal Monastery. Start the morning paying respects to the Subduing Mara Buddha image in the Thai-style ordination hall for auspicious blessings.
- 9:45 – 11:00 AM – Wat Nong Waeng Royal Monastery. Pay respects to the Buddha relics, admire the seven-headed naga wall, and head up to the 9th floor for panoramic views of Bueng Kaen Nakhon.
- 11:15 AM – 12:30 PM – Wat Pho Ban Non Than. Visit the Phothisangkat meditation hall, with Isan Dhamma-riddle stucco work unlike anywhere else.
Full-Day Khon Kaen Temple Trip: 9 Temples (7:30 AM – 6:30 PM)
Morning: City Zone—Royal Monasteries and the City’s Pagoda
- 7:30 – 8:15 AM Wat Si Chan Royal Monastery
- 8:30 – 9:15 AM Wat That Royal Monastery
- 9:30 – 10:45 AM Wat Nong Waeng Royal Monastery (9-storey pagoda)
- 11:00 – 11:45 AM Wat Pho Ban Non Than
- 11:45 AM – 12:45 PM Lunch break, then stop by one of Khon Kaen’s cafes to recharge with a drink
Afternoon: Phra Lap Zone—The Great Chedi of the Three Worlds
- 1:00 – 2:00 PM Wat Pa Saeng Arun—see the Isan ordination hall and mudmee silk-pattern murals
- 2:15 – 3:15 PM Wat Thung Setthi—pay respects at the Maha Chedi Sri Trilokathat and make wishes for fortune
- 3:30 – 4:30 PM Shiva Mahadeva Shrine—pay respects to Lord Shiva and see the naga city zone
Evening: Shaded Forest Temples and Ancient Murals
- 4:50 – 5:30 PM Wat Pa Tham Utthayan (Luang Phor Kluay Temple)—make wishes for a smooth life in a forest-temple setting
- 5:50 – 6:30 PM Wat Chai Si—close the trip with ancient Isan hoop taem mural paintings
After completing all 9 temples, we recommend stopping by a Khon Kaen walking street or an Isan restaurant in the city before heading back.
Visited the Temples of Khon Kaen and Feel Like Staying Longer?
The more you experience Khon Kaen for yourself, the more you understand why locals love this city—its temples, culture, food, and convenient, well-connected location, all with housing prices that are far more accessible than in Bangkok.
For those looking for a Khon Kaen condo to live in or invest in, Ocean Oasis Khon Kaen is located on the Friendship Highway, with convenient access to many of the best places to visit in Khon Kaen, including Bueng Kaen Nakhon and Wat Nong Waeng, both just a few minutes’ drive away.
The project offers full common facilities, including a Half-Olympic saltwater swimming pool, a fitness centre, a co-working space, and a Sky Playground, with 5 room types from Studio to 2 Bedroom, starting at just THB 1.59 million. It suits both those who want to live in the project themselves and investors interested in Khon Kaen real estate investment or rental condo investment in a location with consistently high rental demand.
For more project details or to arrange a show unit visit, please contact:
- Tel: 02-038-5011
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/OceanProperty
- Email: info@oceanproperty.co.th
- Sales Office Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Wt3kdeQko4UdaQ4b7
FAQs
Q: Which are the most famous temples in Khon Kaen?
A: Well-known and popular temples in Khon Kaen include Wat Nong Waeng Royal Monastery (the 9-storey pagoda), Wat Phra That Kham Kaen, Wat Thung Setthi, Wat Si Chan Royal Monastery, and the Shiva Mahadeva Shrine, each with its own distinct highlights and atmosphere.
Q: What is the 9-storey temple in Khon Kaen, and where is it?
A: The 9-storey temple refers to Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon, located within Wat Nong Waeng Royal Monastery on Klang Mueang Road, Nai Mueang, Mueang Khon Kaen, beside Bueng Kaen Nakhon. The pagoda stands 80 metres tall with 9 floors, and visitors can go up to the 9th floor for panoramic views of Khon Kaen.
Q: Which is the best spiritual temple in Khon Kaen?
A: Popular spots among spiritual seekers include Wat Thung Setthi, known for its Maha Chedi Sri Trilokathat and wishes for fortune and finances, and the Shiva Mahadeva Shrine, with its replica naga city and hell realm complete with light and sound effects.
Q: Where should I start a 9-temple trip in Khon Kaen?
A: We recommend starting at Wat Si Chan Royal Monastery at 7:30 AM, then continuing to Wat That, Wat Nong Waeng, Wat Pho Ban Non Than, Wat Pa Saeng Arun, Wat Thung Setthi, the Shiva Mahadeva Shrine, and Wat Pa Tham Utthayan, ending at Wat Chai Si. The whole route takes around 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM.
Q: Which temples in Mueang Khon Kaen district are worth visiting?
A: Mueang Khon Kaen district has many worthwhile temples, including Wat Nong Waeng (the 9-storey pagoda), Wat Si Chan, Wat That, Wat Pho Ban Non Than, Wat Pa Saeng Arun, Wat Thung Setthi, Wat Pa Tham Utthayan, and Suan Weluwan Meditation Centre—covering royal monasteries, spiritual temples, and meditation centres.
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