9am. Start the day with kai krata.

Kai krata is a fried egg served in a pan with moo yor and kun chieng sausages. It also comes with a little roasted bread roll with more sausage inside. No better way to start the day—particularly if it’s in the luxuriant gardens of Supanniga. If you’re not staying at Supanniga Home, you’ll have to head to Em Ot Kai Kratha (71/22 Klang Mueang Rd., opposite Roma Hotel. 043-241-382) for a taste of this local favorite.

10:30am. Visit and eat lunch at Ubonrat Dam

The Ubonrat Dam is a short drive north from Khon Kaen. It holds back a giant reservoir surrounded by parkland. Walk around to build up an appetite and, when you’re feeling peckish, head down to the aptly named Bang Saen 2 area, which is a group of restaurants hovering just above the reservoir’s water on slender bamboo stilts. Nice breeze, nice view and you can be sure the freshwater fish is fresh.

3pm. Phra That Kham Kaen and Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon.

There are two must-see temples in Khon Kaen. You can swing by Phat That Kham Kaen on your way back to town. Its impressive stupa and well maintained grounds will fill you with serenity. The Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon is a lot grander. Built in the 80s to celebrate the King’s jubilee and Khon Kaen’s 200th anniversary, its ninth story offers panoramic views of the city.

6pm. Bung Kaen Nakhon Lake

The lake comes to life with a night market offering food, shopping and even some fair-like entertainment. Hungry? While Khao Suan Kwang grilled chicken is made outside of town, it’s an absolute must-try speciality: this special breed of free-range spring chicken (30-45 days only) is marinated in a special sauce and slowly charcoal grilled. Try Kai Yang Wanida on Mitrapat Rd.