Top Things to Do in Ubon Ratchathani
30 must-see attractions and experiences
Ubon Ratchathani, nestled in Thailand's northeastern Isaan region along the Mun River, offers travelers an authentic glimpse into Thai culture far from the tourist crowds. This provincial capital captivates visitors with its stunning riverside temples, vibrant candle festival traditions, and proximity to dramatic natural wonders like the Sam Phan Bok rock formations. The city serves as a gateway to explore ancient Khmer ruins, mysterious rock paintings, and the breathtaking Mekong River border with Laos. From the serene beauty of Wat Nong Bua's golden chedi to the thundering rapids at Kaeng Tana National Park, Ubon Ratchathani presents a diverse tapestry of experiences. The local food scene showcases bold Isaan flavors, while the night markets and cultural museums reveal deep-rooted traditions. Whether you're seeking spiritual enlightenment at centuries-old temples, adventure in pristine national parks, or cultural immersion through traditional crafts and festivals, Ubon Ratchathani delivers an unforgettable journey into Thailand's heartland.
Don't Miss These
Our top picks for first-time visitors to Ubon Ratchathani
Wat Nong Bua
Historic SitesThis magnificent temple complex features a stunning golden chedi modeled after the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, India. The 40-meter-tall golden stupa dominates the skyline and represents one of Thailand's most impressive Buddhist architectural achievements. Inside the ordination hall, intricate murals depict Buddhist cosmology and the life of Buddha in vivid detail. The temple grounds include beautifully manicured gardens, meditation pavilions, and a museum displaying religious artifacts. The serene atmosphere and architectural grandeur make this one of Ubon's most photographed landmarks.
Sam Phan Bok (Three Thousand Holes)
Natural WondersOften called the 'Grand Canyon of Thailand,' Sam Phan Bok features thousands of eroded rock formations along the Mekong River bed, visible only during the dry season when water levels drop. The sandstone has been carved by millennia of water flow into dramatic holes, pillars, and swirling patterns that create an otherworldly landscape. Visitors can walk across the exposed rock formations, exploring the intricate geological patterns and enjoying panoramic views of the Mekong River and Laos beyond. The sunset views here are spectacular, with golden light illuminating the red sandstone formations.
Ubon Ratchathani National Museum
Museums & GalleriesThis comprehensive museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of Ubon Ratchathani and the greater Isaan region. Exhibits include ancient Dvaravati and Khmer artifacts, traditional Isaan textiles, ethnographic displays of local tribal groups, and detailed information about the famous Candle Festival. The museum houses an impressive collection of prehistoric tools, bronze age artifacts, and Buddha images spanning various periods. Detailed dioramas recreate traditional Isaan village life, while the textile section displays intricate mudmee silk patterns unique to the region. English signage provides context for most exhibits.
Thung Si Muang Park
Urban ExplorationThis central urban park serves as Ubon's green lung and social gathering place, featuring a large lake surrounded by walking paths, exercise stations, and shaded pavilions. The park comes alive in the early morning and evening when locals practice tai chi, jog, and exercise. Paddle boats are available for rent on the lake, and vendors sell snacks and drinks around the perimeter. The park hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including outdoor concerts and cultural performances. Ancient trees provide ample shade, making it a pleasant retreat from the city heat.
Hat Wat Tai (Wat Tai Beach)
Outdoor ActivitiesThis riverside beach along the Mun River becomes a popular recreation spot during the dry season when sandy banks emerge from receding waters. Locals gather here for picnics, swimming, and relaxation, creating a festive atmosphere on weekends. Small restaurants and vendors set up temporary stalls selling grilled fish, som tam, and cold drinks. The beach offers views of Wat Tai temple on the opposite bank and pleasant sunset watching opportunities. Families bring mats and umbrellas to spend entire afternoons enjoying the river breeze and socializing.
Ubon Ratchathani City Pillar Shrine
Cultural ExperiencesThis ornate shrine houses the city's sacred pillar, believed to protect Ubon Ratchathani and its inhabitants. The shrine features intricate Thai architectural details with gilded decorations, colorful murals, and elaborate wood carvings. Local people come daily to make offerings of flowers, incense, and food to the city spirit. The shrine's interior is richly decorated with gold leaf and traditional patterns. Classical Thai dancers occasionally perform here during important city ceremonies and festivals. The peaceful courtyard provides a contemplative space in the busy city center.
Chong Mek Border Market
Day TripsLocated at the Thai-Lao border, this bustling market offers an eclectic mix of goods from Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and China. Vendors sell everything from Lao textiles and handicrafts to Vietnamese coffee and Chinese electronics. The market sprawls across both sides of the border, and visitors can cross into Laos for the day with proper documentation. Fresh produce, dried goods, herbal medicines, and unique souvenirs fill the stalls. The atmosphere is lively and authentic, with minimal tourist infrastructure. Local restaurants serve Lao and Isaan specialties at very reasonable prices.
Ubon Night Market (Talat Nong Bua Lamphu)
Nightlife & EntertainmentThis sprawling night market comes alive each evening with hundreds of vendors selling street food, clothing, handicrafts, and local products. The food section is a paradise for culinary adventurers, offering authentic Isaan specialties like grilled chicken, som tam, larb, and exotic items like fried insects. Local artisans sell handwoven textiles, silverwork, and traditional crafts at reasonable prices. Live music performances and a festive atmosphere make this a social hub for locals and visitors alike. The market extends across several blocks with different sections for food, clothing, and souvenirs.
Sao Chaliang Ancient Stone Bridge
Hidden GemsThis mysterious ancient stone formation spans a small stream and is believed to be either a natural geological feature or a prehistoric human construction. Local legends attribute supernatural origins to the perfectly balanced stones that form a bridge-like structure. The site is surrounded by peaceful rural landscape with rice paddies and traditional wooden houses. Few tourists visit this off-the-beaten-path location, making it ideal for those seeking undiscovered attractions. The area is particularly photogenic during the green season when rice paddies are flooded. Local villagers maintain the site and can share stories about the bridge's legends.
Ubon Aquarium and Fish Conservation Center
Family AttractionsThis educational facility showcases freshwater fish species native to the Mun and Mekong river systems. Large aquarium tanks display various ecosystems from fast-flowing rapids to slow-moving pools, with fish arranged by habitat. Information panels explain conservation efforts to protect endangered species and the importance of river ecosystems. The center includes breeding programs for threatened native fish species. Interactive displays teach children about aquatic life and environmental conservation. An outdoor pond area allows visitors to feed large catfish and carp. The facility is clean, well-maintained, and provides air-conditioned relief from the heat.
Historic Sites
Ubon's temples showcase unique architectural fusion of Thai, Lao, and Khmer influences. From golden chedis to ancient wooden libraries, these sacred sites reveal the city's spiritual heritage and serve as active centers of Buddhist practice. Many temples feature intricate murals and house revered Buddha images that attract pilgrims from across Thailand.
Wat Nong Bua
This magnificent temple complex features a stunning golden chedi modeled after the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, India. The 40-meter-tall golden stupa dominates the skyline and represents one of Thailand's most impressive Buddhist architectural achievements. Inside the ordination hall, intricate murals depict Buddhist cosmology and the life of Buddha in vivid detail. The temple grounds include beautifully manicured gardens, meditation pavilions, and a museum displaying religious artifacts. The serene atmosphere and architectural grandeur make this one of Ubon's most photographed landmarks.
Wat Thung Si Muang
Located in the heart of Ubon Ratchathani, this historic temple dates back to the city's founding and serves as a spiritual center for locals. The temple houses a revered wooden library built in traditional Isaan style, elevated on stilts to protect ancient palm-leaf manuscripts from flooding and termites. The main ubosot features beautiful carved wooden doors and windows, while the grounds contain several chedis and meditation halls. During the famous Candle Festival, this temple becomes the focal point for elaborate wax sculpture displays. The peaceful courtyard provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city center.
Wat Phra That Nong Bua
This important pilgrimage site features a gleaming white chedi in the Srivijaya style, standing 50 meters tall and visible from across the countryside. The temple complex includes beautifully maintained gardens with topiary sculptures, meditation halls, and a museum housing Buddhist relics. The main chedi is surrounded by smaller satellite chedis and Buddha statues in various poses. The temple's elevated position provides views over the surrounding rice paddies and rural landscape. During Buddhist holidays, the temple attracts thousands of devotees who come to make merit and circumambulate the chedi.
Wat Jaeng (Wat Supattanaram Worawihan)
This ancient temple complex showcases a unique blend of Thai, Lao, and Khmer architectural influences reflecting Ubon's multicultural heritage. The main ordination hall features intricate murals painted in the 19th century depicting Buddhist teachings and local legends. The temple's wooden scripture library, built in traditional Isaan style, stands on stilts in a pond designed to protect ancient texts from fire and insects. Elaborate naga serpents guard the entrances, and the compound includes several historic chedis and meditation halls. The temple remains an active monastery with resident monks who maintain the grounds.
Wat Maha Wanaram
This riverside temple complex features stunning traditional Isaan architecture with a massive ordination hall covered in intricate gold decorations. The temple grounds extend along the Mun River, offering scenic water views and cool breezes. A large reclining Buddha statue draws pilgrims, while smaller shrines dot the extensive grounds. The temple's bell tower and drum pavilion showcase traditional craftsmanship. During festivals, elaborate ceremonies take place here with traditional music and dance performances. The peaceful riverside setting provides a contemplative atmosphere despite being close to the city center.
Wat Tai Phra Chao Yai Ong Tue
This historic temple houses one of the region's most revered Buddha images, attracting pilgrims from across Thailand. The temple complex features classic Isaan architecture with wooden structures elevated on stilts and decorated with intricate carvings. The main Buddha image, cast in bronze, is believed to have miraculous powers and is covered in gold leaf offerings from devotees. Beautiful murals depicting Buddhist stories adorn the interior walls of the ordination hall. The temple grounds include ancient bodhi trees, meditation pavilions, and a monk's quarters. During important Buddhist holidays, elaborate ceremonies and festivals take place here.
Natural Wonders
The region surrounding Ubon offers dramatic natural attractions from the surreal rock formations of Sam Phan Bok to thundering rapids and pristine waterfalls. These sites showcase the power of the Mekong and Mun rivers in shaping the landscape, with opportunities for hiking, swimming, and witnessing spectacular geological formations unique to this border region.
Sam Phan Bok (Three Thousand Holes)
Often called the 'Grand Canyon of Thailand,' Sam Phan Bok features thousands of eroded rock formations along the Mekong River bed, visible only during the dry season when water levels drop. The sandstone has been carved by millennia of water flow into dramatic holes, pillars, and swirling patterns that create an otherworldly landscape. Visitors can walk across the exposed rock formations, exploring the intricate geological patterns and enjoying panoramic views of the Mekong River and Laos beyond. The sunset views here are spectacular, with golden light illuminating the red sandstone formations.
Kaeng Tana National Park
This scenic national park protects a dramatic stretch of the Mun River featuring powerful rapids, rocky outcrops, and lush forest. The park's centerpiece is the Tana Rapids, where water rushes through narrow channels creating impressive white water displays, especially during the rainy season. Hiking trails wind through dipterocarp forest leading to viewpoints overlooking the river valley. The park is home to diverse wildlife including gibbons, macaques, and numerous bird species. Ancient rock paintings can be found in several cliff shelters, offering glimpses into prehistoric human habitation.
Pha Taem National Park
Perched on towering cliffs overlooking the Mekong River and Laos, Pha Taem protects some of Southeast Asia's most important prehistoric rock art. The cliff faces feature paintings estimated to be 3,000-4,000 years old, depicting human figures, animals, and geometric patterns in red ochre. The park offers spectacular sunrise viewing from the cliff edge, where you can watch the first rays of sunlight hit Thailand. Several hiking trails lead through unique rock formations including mushroom-shaped stones and balanced boulders. The panoramic Mekong River views from the cliff top are breathtaking.
Huai Kha Yeng Waterfall
This multi-tiered waterfall cascades through lush forest in a relatively undeveloped area, offering a refreshing escape into nature. The main fall drops about 15 meters into a clear pool suitable for swimming. A short hiking trail leads to upper tiers with smaller cascades and natural pools. The surrounding forest is home to diverse bird species and occasional wildlife sightings. Picnic areas near the base of the falls provide shaded spots for relaxing. The waterfall flows year-round but is most impressive during and shortly after the rainy season. Facilities are basic, preserving the natural atmosphere.
Museums & Galleries
Ubon's museums preserve and present the region's rich cultural heritage through diverse collections. From prehistoric rock art and ancient artifacts to contemporary Thai art and the famous candle sculptures, these institutions provide essential context for understanding Isaan culture, history, and artistic traditions that continue to thrive today.
Ubon Ratchathani National Museum
This comprehensive museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of Ubon Ratchathani and the greater Isaan region. Exhibits include ancient Dvaravati and Khmer artifacts, traditional Isaan textiles, ethnographic displays of local tribal groups, and detailed information about the famous Candle Festival. The museum houses an impressive collection of prehistoric tools, bronze age artifacts, and Buddha images spanning various periods. Detailed dioramas recreate traditional Isaan village life, while the textile section displays intricate mudmee silk patterns unique to the region. English signage provides context for most exhibits.
Candle Castle Hall (Ubon Candle Festival Museum)
This unique museum is dedicated to Ubon's world-famous Candle Festival, displaying elaborate wax sculptures that have won competitions in previous years. The intricate candle carvings depict Buddhist stories, mythological scenes, and Thai legends, some standing over 3 meters tall. Visitors can learn about the traditional techniques used to create these masterpieces and the history of the festival dating back over a century. The museum also features photographs and videos documenting past festivals. Artisans sometimes demonstrate candle carving techniques, showing the incredible skill required to create these temporary artworks.
Sirindhorn Art Center
This modern gallery complex showcases contemporary Thai art alongside rotating exhibitions of regional and international artists. The center features multiple exhibition halls displaying paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia works. A special section focuses on art inspired by Isaan culture and traditions, reinterpreted through modern artistic lenses. The architecture itself is striking, with clean lines and abundant natural light creating an ideal viewing environment. Educational programs and artist talks are regularly scheduled. The center also houses a small café and an art bookshop with publications on Thai contemporary art.
Urban Exploration
The city itself offers numerous opportunities for exploration from peaceful parks and lakes to colorful street art transforming old neighborhoods. These urban spaces reveal how locals live, exercise, and socialize while providing pleasant environments for walking, cycling, and people-watching away from major tourist sites.
Thung Si Muang Park
This central urban park serves as Ubon's green lung and social gathering place, featuring a large lake surrounded by walking paths, exercise stations, and shaded pavilions. The park comes alive in the early morning and evening when locals practice tai chi, jog, and exercise. Paddle boats are available for rent on the lake, and vendors sell snacks and drinks around the perimeter. The park hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including outdoor concerts and cultural performances. Ancient trees provide ample shade, making it a pleasant retreat from the city heat.
Nong Bua Lake
This large urban lake provides a scenic escape within the city, surrounded by walking and cycling paths popular with locals for exercise. The lake is home to numerous water birds and fish, with designated feeding areas where visitors can purchase food to feed the fish. Covered pavilions and benches line the shore, offering shaded resting spots with lake views. Small cafés and food vendors operate around the perimeter. The area is particularly pleasant in the early morning and evening when temperatures cool. Paddle boats and kayaks are available for rent on weekends.
Ubon Street Art Trail
A self-guided walking route through the old city center reveals dozens of colorful murals and street art installations celebrating Ubon's culture and history. Local and international artists have transformed building walls into canvases depicting traditional life, festivals, local legends, and contemporary themes. The art ranges from large-scale realistic murals to abstract pieces and playful installations. Information plaques explain the stories behind key artworks. The trail passes through historic neighborhoods, allowing visitors to see traditional wooden shophouses and everyday local life alongside the art. Several cafés and shops along the route welcome art trail walkers.
Outdoor Activities
The region's rivers and lakes provide numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation including swimming at natural rapids, cycling around scenic lakes, and boating. These activities allow visitors to enjoy nature while observing how locals spend leisure time, particularly during the dry season when river beaches become social gathering spots.
Hat Wat Tai (Wat Tai Beach)
This riverside beach along the Mun River becomes a popular recreation spot during the dry season when sandy banks emerge from receding waters. Locals gather here for picnics, swimming, and relaxation, creating a festive atmosphere on weekends. Small restaurants and vendors set up temporary stalls selling grilled fish, som tam, and cold drinks. The beach offers views of Wat Tai temple on the opposite bank and pleasant sunset watching opportunities. Families bring mats and umbrellas to spend entire afternoons enjoying the river breeze and socializing.
Kaeng Saphue Rapids
These scenic rapids along the Mun River create a natural water park where locals gather for swimming, picnicking, and relaxation during the dry season. Rocky outcrops divide the river into channels and pools of varying depths, suitable for both swimming and wading. Temporary restaurants and vendors set up along the banks selling food and drinks. The surrounding landscape features large trees providing natural shade and scenic views. The sound of rushing water creates a peaceful atmosphere. During weekends, the area becomes a lively social gathering spot for families and groups of friends.
Bung Makkasan Lake
This scenic lake and surrounding park offer recreational opportunities including cycling, jogging, and bird watching. The paved path circling the lake is popular with cyclists and runners, especially in the cooler morning and evening hours. Observation platforms provide views over the water where herons, egrets, and other water birds can be spotted. Lotus flowers bloom in sections of the lake during certain seasons, creating photogenic scenes. Exercise equipment stations are scattered around the path for outdoor workouts. Food vendors and small cafés operate near the main entrance. The park includes children's play areas and picnic zones.
Cultural Experiences
Ubon provides authentic cultural immersion through village visits, traditional craft demonstrations, and participation in Buddhist practices. These experiences reveal living traditions from silk weaving techniques passed through generations to meditation practices at forest monasteries, offering deep insight into Isaan culture beyond surface-level tourism.
Ubon Ratchathani City Pillar Shrine
This ornate shrine houses the city's sacred pillar, believed to protect Ubon Ratchathani and its inhabitants. The shrine features intricate Thai architectural details with gilded decorations, colorful murals, and elaborate wood carvings. Local people come daily to make offerings of flowers, incense, and food to the city spirit. The shrine's interior is richly decorated with gold leaf and traditional patterns. Classical Thai dancers occasionally perform here during important city ceremonies and festivals. The peaceful courtyard provides a contemplative space in the busy city center.
Ban Pa-Ao Silk Weaving Village
This traditional village specializes in producing mudmee silk, a complex tie-dye technique unique to the Isaan region. Visitors can observe weavers working on traditional looms, creating intricate patterns that have been passed down through generations. The village cooperative welcomes visitors to watch the entire process from silk thread preparation to the final weaving. Many households have small showrooms where finished products can be purchased directly from artisans at fair prices. The quality of silk here is exceptional, with natural dyes producing rich, lasting colors. Demonstrations of the tie-dye process are available upon request.
Ubon Ratchathani Cultural Center
This comprehensive cultural center preserves and presents the diverse heritage of Ubon Ratchathani province through interactive exhibits and displays. Permanent exhibitions cover local history, ethnic groups, traditional crafts, music, and religious practices. The center features life-size dioramas of traditional Isaan houses and village scenes. A multimedia presentation explains the significance of the Candle Festival and other local traditions. Traditional musical instruments are displayed with recordings of Isaan folk music. The center also hosts cultural performances, workshops, and lectures throughout the year. English explanations accompany most exhibits.
Wat Pa Nanachat (International Forest Monastery)
This unique monastery was established specifically for Western monks and follows the strict Thai forest tradition of Buddhism. Visitors can observe or participate in the monastic routine of meditation, chanting, and mindfulness practice. The monastery welcomes respectful visitors interested in learning about Buddhist practice, and occasional meditation retreats are offered to laypeople. The forest setting provides a peaceful environment for contemplation. Simple accommodations and vegetarian meals are provided for those attending retreats. The monastery's library contains extensive Buddhist texts in English. Resident monks are often willing to discuss Buddhist philosophy with sincere visitors.
Day Trips
Destinations within an hour's drive of Ubon offer unique experiences from border markets to natural phenomena. These day trips provide opportunities to explore the Mekong River border region, witness where two rivers meet, and experience cross-cultural exchange at markets where Thai and Lao commerce intersect.
Chong Mek Border Market
Located at the Thai-Lao border, this bustling market offers an eclectic mix of goods from Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and China. Vendors sell everything from Lao textiles and handicrafts to Vietnamese coffee and Chinese electronics. The market sprawls across both sides of the border, and visitors can cross into Laos for the day with proper documentation. Fresh produce, dried goods, herbal medicines, and unique souvenirs fill the stalls. The atmosphere is lively and authentic, with minimal tourist infrastructure. Local restaurants serve Lao and Isaan specialties at very reasonable prices.
Khong Chiam Two-Color River
At this remarkable natural phenomenon, the brown waters of the Mun River meet the blue waters of the Mekong River without immediately mixing, creating a visible line between the two colors. The best viewing point is from a riverside pavilion or from long-tail boats that take visitors to the confluence point. The contrast is most dramatic during the dry season when water levels are lower. The surrounding area includes riverside restaurants serving fresh fish and Isaan specialties. Nearby temples and the border with Laos add to the area's interest. The peaceful riverside setting makes this a popular spot for watching sunsets over the Mekong.
Nightlife & Entertainment
Ubon's evening markets come alive with food vendors, live music, and social activity. These markets serve as community gathering places where authentic street food culture thrives. From famous night markets to neighborhood markets, evening exploration reveals the social heart of Isaan culture through food, shopping, and entertainment.
Ubon Night Market (Talat Nong Bua Lamphu)
This sprawling night market comes alive each evening with hundreds of vendors selling street food, clothing, handicrafts, and local products. The food section is a paradise for culinary adventurers, offering authentic Isaan specialties like grilled chicken, som tam, larb, and exotic items like fried insects. Local artisans sell handwoven textiles, silverwork, and traditional crafts at reasonable prices. Live music performances and a festive atmosphere make this a social hub for locals and visitors alike. The market extends across several blocks with different sections for food, clothing, and souvenirs.
Ubon Ratchathani Provincial Stadium Night Market
This evening market near the stadium offers a more local alternative to tourist-oriented markets, with vendors selling street food, clothing, and household goods to neighborhood residents. The food selection is extensive and authentic, featuring regional specialties rarely found in tourist areas. Live music performances and entertainment create a festive atmosphere. Prices are lower than at tourist markets, and vendors are friendly and curious about foreign visitors. The market sprawls across several streets with different sections for food, produce, and merchandise. Local families bring children to enjoy the evening out, creating a community atmosphere.
Family Attractions
Educational attractions suitable for families provide learning opportunities about regional ecology and conservation. The aquarium showcases unique Mekong River species while teaching environmental awareness, offering air-conditioned comfort and interactive experiences that engage visitors of all ages in understanding the region's aquatic biodiversity.
Ubon Aquarium and Fish Conservation Center
This educational facility showcases freshwater fish species native to the Mun and Mekong river systems. Large aquarium tanks display various ecosystems from fast-flowing rapids to slow-moving pools, with fish arranged by habitat. Information panels explain conservation efforts to protect endangered species and the importance of river ecosystems. The center includes breeding programs for threatened native fish species. Interactive displays teach children about aquatic life and environmental conservation. An outdoor pond area allows visitors to feed large catfish and carp. The facility is clean, well-maintained, and provides air-conditioned relief from the heat.
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
November to February offers the most comfortable weather for sightseeing. Visit during late July for the spectacular Candle Festival. December to May is essential for seeing Sam Phan Bok and river beaches that only appear in dry season.
Booking Advice
Most attractions require no advance booking. For Wat Pa Nanachat meditation retreats, contact the monastery at least two weeks ahead. Long-tail boat trips at Khong Chiam can be arranged on arrival. Accommodation books up during Candle Festival week, so reserve hotels 2-3 months in advance if visiting in July.
Save Money
Most temples and parks are free to enter. Eat at local markets rather than restaurants for authentic food at a fraction of the price. Rent a bicycle or motorbike (150-200 baht per day) to visit multiple sites independently rather than hiring taxis. Purchase silk directly from village weavers for better prices than shops.
Local Etiquette
Remove shoes before entering temple buildings and sit with feet pointing away from Buddha images. Dress modestly at religious sites covering shoulders and knees. Avoid touching people's heads or pointing feet at others. When visiting villages, ask permission before photographing people. Monks cannot touch women, so female visitors should maintain respectful distance.
Book Your Experiences
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