Khon Kaen - National Museum

The museum, on the northern edge of town, contains some of the sensational finds from Ban Chiang, including bronze and ceramic vessels decorated with various geometric patterns and flower and animal motifs. The pieces date from 4500 to 3500 bc but their precise origin is uncertain. One of the Ban Chiang burials is also on show. The ground floor holds a fine collection of Thai folk art as well as prehistoric artifacts, plus changing exhibitions.

The sandstone sema boundary markers on the ground floor (near the garden exit) and in the gardens depict scenes in relief from the life of Buddha such as his return home to his family after enlightenment. One relief shows his wife caressing Buddha's feet with her hair, while his son points to the sublime presence. Another shows a ceremony, possibly a wedding, while the God Indra can be seen in another. Some of the sema are from Muang Fa Daed and they are finely carved in the 8th to 10th c. Dvaravati style, mixed with traces of Khmer influence. There are also some interesting Dvaravati sculptures and Chian Saen bronzes.

East of the museum is an idyllic palm-fringed lake, with a restaurant.