Khon Kaen (Thai ขอนแก่น) is the second-largest of the north-eastern provinces (changwat) of Thailand. Neighboring provinces are (from north clockwise) Nongbua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Kalasin, Maha Sarakham, Buriram, Nakhon Ratchasima, Chaiyaphum, Phetchabun and Loei.

Geography

Khon Kaen is located in the heart of the Khorat Plateau. The Chi river flows through this province.

History

The first city of the area was established in 1783 when Rajakruluang settled there with 330 people. King Rama I made Rajakruluang the first governor of the area when establishing tighter connections with the Isan area. The main city was moved six times until in 1879 it reached its modern location at Nuang Kaw. Khon Kaen became the administrative centre in the beginning of the 20th century.

Symbols

The seal of the province shows the stupa (tower) of Phra That Kham, which is believed to contain relics of Buddha. Two trees are depicted on both sides, one is a banyan tree (Ficus benghalensis), the other a Golden Shower Tree (Cassia fistula). The Thai name of the golden shower means providing support and preventing a decline, and it is also the provincial flower. The provincial tree is the pink shower tree (Cassia bakeriana ), the Thai name of which translates as "wishing tree".

Administrative divisions

The province is subdivided into 20 districts (Amphoe) and 5 minor districts (King Amphoe). The districts are further subdivided into 198 communes (tambon) and 2139 villages.

External links

• Province page from the Tourist Authority of Thailand
• Golden Jubilee Network province guide
• Inofficial website