About the Khon Kaen, Thailand Program

The Khon Kaen program is a USAC specialty program during the summer term and a USAC partnership program during the semester terms. Learn more about on-site program elements and the city itself below.

About Khon Kaen

Population: 1.8 million
Distance from Bangkok: 280 miles
Distance from Chiang Mai: 400 miles

Khon Kaen is located in the heart of Thailand's northeast region, well known for the high-quality Mud Mee silk and its hospitality. Khon Kaen is a large and truly local city, not yet discovered by tourists. Due to this the cost of living is low. Khon Kaen is the commercial and political center of northeastern Thailand, featuring a number of upscale restaurants and hotels, and the largest center of education, healthcare, and technology. It is only an hour flight from Bangkok and Chiang Mai. The local transportation system makes it easy to visit nearby mountainous areas and neighboring countries, such as Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Historically, Khon Kaen is quite a new town, established a little over two centuries ago. However, prehistorically, this town on the plateau has been home to various cultures as well as other fascinating creatures unknown to the modern world (Dinosaurs!). The ancient cultures, traditions, and historical sites in this area have all contributed to shaping the local people and culture.