Ubon Ratchathani Travel Guide: Temples, Festivals, and Cliffside Wonders in Thailand’s Eastern Frontier

24 май 2025 г.

Located in the heart of Isaan, near the borders of Laos and Cambodia, Ubon Ratchathani is one of Thailand’s most underrated gems. Known for its deep Buddhist roots, spectacular national parks, ancient rock art, and the famous Candle Festival, Ubon offers a perfect mix of culture, nature, and authentic Thai life far from the typical tourist trail.

Top Tourist Attractions in Ubon Ratchathani

Pha Taem National Park
Home to 3,000-year-old prehistoric cave paintings, this cliffside park overlooks the Mekong River and offers one of Thailand’s most surreal sunrises. Ideal for hiking, photography, and exploring ancient human history.
Wat Phra That Nong Bua
A stunning white-and-gold chedi inspired by India’s Mahabodhi Stupa. This iconic temple features intricate carvings, religious relics, and a serene garden setting.
Wat Thung Si Muang
Set in the city centre, this peaceful temple features a wooden scripture hall on stilts, surrounded by lotus ponds and shaded walkways. A quiet refuge steeped in traditional Isaan design.
Sam Phan Bok – Thailand’s Grand Canyon
These eroded sandstone formations reveal over 3,000 natural holes carved by the Mekong. Best viewed during dry season (Nov–Apr), it’s a geological marvel unlike anywhere else in Thailand.

Must-See Temples

Wat Phra That Phanom
Although technically in nearby Nakhon Phanom, this revered temple is spiritually connected to Ubon’s cultural fabric. A major pilgrimage site with a blend of Laotian and Isaan design.
Wat Nong Pah Pong
Founded by Ajahn Chah, this forest monastery is a hub for meditation and mindfulness seekers. A peaceful setting for learning Theravada Buddhist practices.
Wat Ban Na Muang
A rare boat-shaped ordination hall floating on a pond. The symbolic design reflects Thai reverence for water and Buddhist symbolism.

Nightlife in Ubon Ratchathani

While laid-back, Ubon has a few hotspots where you can enjoy music and drinks:

Nimman Bar & Bistro
Trendy, open-air, and social—offering cocktails, craft beers, and live acoustic sets.
Tawan Daeng
A local-style nightclub with live Isaan folk music, dancing, and a vibrant mix of locals. Perfect for soaking in the real party spirit of northeastern Thailand.
Riverside Bars
Sip on Thai whisky or cold beer along the Mun River under lantern-lit trees with acoustic tunes and river breezes.

National Parks in Ubon

Pha Taem National Park
Top pick for history and views. Don’t miss Sao Chaliang, natural stone pillars shaped by wind and water, and the sunrise cliff view known as Thailand’s first sunrise.
Kaeng Tana National Park
Home to the largest rapids on the Mun River. Great for riverbank hikes, birdwatching, and peaceful picnics.
Phu Chong Na Yoi National Park
Secluded and lush. Trek to the jaw-dropping Huai Luang Waterfall, known for its emerald pool and white sand beach feel.

Sports Bars in Ubon

Zap Baan Rim Mun
Casual and riverside, this spot screens football and Muay Thai matches. Local beer, grilled skewers, and a friendly vibe make it a popular hangout.
Local Pubs
Ask your hotel for recommendations—many small bars stream Premier League and Thai League games during weekends.

Beaches? Not Here—But Waterfalls Will Do

Ubon is landlocked, but its rivers, rapids, and falls make up for it:

Huai Luang Waterfall offers a natural “beach” at its base.
Mun River banks are perfect for riverside chilling, boat rides, or floating restaurants.

Where to Stay: Hostels to Eco-Resorts

Budget Hostels
Try Ubon Backpacker Hostel for clean dorms and a sociable vibe, or Tohsang Khongjiam for riverside serenity.
Mid-Range Hotels
Sunee Grand Hotel and Nevada Convention Hotel offer pools, gyms, and solid amenities near the city’s heart.
Eco-Resorts
In Khong Chiam and around national parks, resorts like Sedhapura by Tohsang combine local charm with forest or river views.

How to Get Around Ubon

Songthaews & Tuk-Tuks
Cheap and available everywhere for town rides or short trips.
Motorbike Rentals
Best way to explore national parks, waterfalls, or nearby villages. Roads are safe and scenic.
Buses & Minivans
Connect Ubon with other Isaan provinces and Bangkok via the Ubon Bus Terminal.
Train Station
Regular trains to and from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station, offering scenic views and an affordable ride.
Flights
Ubon Ratchathani Airport has direct flights to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and other cities—perfect for a quick entry or exit.

Fun Things to Do

Join the Candle Festival (Khao Phansa)
Held every July, this event is Ubon’s crown jewel. See enormous carved wax candles paraded through the city with dancers, musicians, and monks.
Trek at Pha Taem
Catch a sunrise over Laos, then explore the prehistoric paintings and jungle trails.
Boat Trip on the Mun River
A peaceful journey past floating restaurants, riverside villages, and fishing boats.
Visit Handicraft Villages
At Ban Pa Ao, watch artisans weave silk or create traditional basketry, then shop for authentic souvenirs.

Muay Thai in Ubon Ratchathani

Local Gyms in Ubon City
Many gyms welcome foreigners for drop-in sessions. Great for those wanting real Thai boxing without the tourist gloss.
Festival Matches
During big events like the Candle Festival, catch local Muay Thai bouts at outdoor rings.
Ask Around
Hotels and guesthouses often know where to watch or train nearby—some resorts even offer classes.

Fun Facts About Ubon

Candle Capital: Ubon is Thailand’s official home of the Candle Festival, combining art, religion, and Isaan tradition.
Tri-Border Gateway: Located near Laos and Cambodia, it’s a perfect hub for regional overland travel.
Prehistoric Rock Art: Pha Taem’s cliff paintings are among Southeast Asia’s oldest depictions of human life.
Isaan Spirit: Ubon blends Thai, Lao, and Khmer cultures—reflected in its food, language, and religious art.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit
November–February is dry and cool, ideal for trekking. July is festival season—book early!
Language
Locals speak Thai and Isaan (a Lao-based dialect). English is limited outside hotels, so learning key Thai phrases helps.
Dress Respectfully
Especially during festivals or temple visits. Cover shoulders and knees, and remove shoes before entering sacred sites.
Cash is King
ATMs are available in the city, but small towns and markets still prefer baht notes.

Final Thoughts

Ubon Ratchathani offers a side of Thailand that’s deeply spiritual, quietly beautiful, and proudly Isaan. Whether you’re watching candle parades, hiking along prehistoric cliffs, or sipping coffee by the river—this is where ancient tradition and natural beauty meet.

Have you experienced Ubon Ratchathani?

Share your favourite festival, waterfall, or temple moment in the comments.

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