Phra Mahathat Kaeng Nakhon is located within Wat Nong Waeng Royal Monastery, an ancient temple built concurrently with the founding of Khon Kaen city in 1789 by Thao Phia Mueang Phan, the first ruler of Khon Kaen. The magnificent stupa we see today was constructed in 1796 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej's reign and the 200th anniversary of Khon Kaen province's Golden Jubilee. The stupa is designed in a blend of Dvaravati and Mekong River basin styles, featuring a square base measuring 50 meters on each side and standing 80 meters tall. A beautifully ornate seven-headed Naga serpent surrounds the stupa.

The interior structure is divided into 9 floors, each with a different meaning and purpose:

Floor 1 is an assembly hall with the Buddha's relics enshrined on a central pedestal and three main Buddha images in the center. The doors and windows are carved with scenes from the Four Champaka Trees folktale, with the doors featuring particularly three-dimensional carvings. There are also murals depicting the history of Khon Kaen.

Floor 2 is a dormitory. The doors and windows are decorated with Benjarong patterns and carvings from the Sangsilpchai folktale.

Floor 3 is a study hall. The doors and windows are decorated with Benjarong patterns and carvings from the Nang Phom Hom folktale.

Floor 4 is a Dhamma study hall. Inside is a museum of antiques. The doors and windows feature images of the Buddha of each day of the week, directional deities, and guardian spirits.

Floor 5 is a museum. It houses the belongings of Luang Pu Phra Khru Palat Busaba Sumano, the 6th former abbot of the temple. The doors and windows are carved with Jataka tales.

The 6th floor houses the Hall of the Preceptor, with doors and windows carved with scenes from the Vessantara Jataka.

The 7th floor is the Hall of the Arahant Disciples, with doors and windows carved with scenes from the story of Prince Teymi the Mute.

The 8th floor is the Hall of Dharma, containing important Buddhist scriptures, including the Tripitaka, etc. The doors are carved with images of the 16 Brahma realms.

The 9th floor, the highest floor, houses the Buddha's relics enshrined in an intricately carved reliquary. It also offers the most beautiful viewpoint in Khon Kaen, providing panoramic views of the expansive Bueng Kaen Nakhon lake and the entire city skyline.

Beyond its architectural prominence, Phra Maha That Kaen Nakhon is a spiritual center for the people of Khon Kaen. Important Buddhist religious ceremonies are held there continuously throughout the year. The atmosphere within the temple is peaceful, serene, and imbued with the rich Isaan culture, subtly incorporated into every detail of the artwork. From the wood carvings to the vibrant murals depicting the Twelve Traditions and Fourteen Customs, it's more than just a religious tourist attraction; it's a living museum that perfectly conveys the history and pride of the people of Khon Kaen from generation to generation.

• Located by Bueng Kaen Nakhon lake, the temple can be reached from the city center by private car via Khon Kaen Central Road or by taking the blue Songthaew (minibus) route 8 or the Khon Kaen City Bus that passes in front of the temple.

• Dress respectfully, as this is a sacred place.

• It is recommended to visit in the morning or evening to avoid the heat.

• At the entrance, there will be a shoe rack and cloth bags available for you to put your shoes in to carry with you to the top, preventing mix-ups or loss due to the large number of visitors.

• And don't miss the opportunity to go up to the 9th floor to admire the panoramic view of Bueng Kaen Nakhon Lake in the morning or before sunset, which is very beautiful.

Admission Fees:

• There is no entrance fee.

Opening Hours:

• Temple and surrounding area: Open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

• Nine-story pagoda: Open for viewing from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (At certain times, access to floors 2-9 may close slightly earlier than usual for cleaning and safety measures).