Weekend Wonders of Ubon Ratchathani
Temples, Candle Art, and Mekong River Sunsets
Trip Overview
Discover the cultural heart of Thailand's northeastern Isaan region with this immersive weekend in Ubon Ratchathani. This carefully crafted itinerary balances ancient temple exploration with modern Thai culture, taking you from the stunning Wat Thung Si Muang to the serene banks of the Mekong River. Experience the city's famous candle carving tradition, explore vibrant local markets, and witness unforgettable sunsets where Thailand meets Laos. The moderate pace allows time to savor authentic Isaan cuisine, interact with friendly locals, and understand why Ubon is considered one of Thailand's most culturally rich yet undervisited destinations. Perfect for those seeking authentic Thai experiences away from tourist crowds.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Temple Treasures & Candle Craftsmanship
Where to Stay Tonight
City Center near Thung Si Muang (Mid-range hotel or guesthouse)
Central location provides easy access to temples, markets, and restaurants, with everything within walking distance or short tuk-tuk rides for Day 2's activities
Mekong Majesty & River Sunsets
Where to Stay Tonight
Return to Ubon City or stay in Khong Jiam (Riverside resort in Khong Jiam or return to Ubon hotel)
Staying in Khong Jiam offers peaceful riverside ambiance for your final evening; returning to Ubon provides easier departure access for Sunday evening or Monday morning
Practical Information
Getting Around
Rent a car or motorbike for Day 2's Mekong River excursions (approximately $15-25/day), as public transport to Pha Taem and Sam Phan Bok is limited. Within Ubon city, use tuk-tuks ($1-2 per ride), songthaews (shared trucks, $0.50), or rent a bicycle. Many hotels arrange day tours to Khong Jiam area ($25-40 per person including guide and transport). Grab taxi app works in central Ubon for convenient pricing.
Book Ahead
Book accommodation during Candle Festival week (July) months ahead. Otherwise, weekend bookings 1-2 weeks prior are sufficient. Car rentals should be arranged 3-5 days advance. No advance tickets needed for temples or attractions.
Packing Essentials
Modest temple clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), light rain jacket (if visiting May-October), camera with extra batteries, insect repellent, reusable water bottle, and a sarong for temple visits
Total Budget
$95-135 for 2 days (excluding accommodation)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in local guesthouses ($10-15/night), eat exclusively at street markets and local restaurants ($5-8/day), use motorbike rental instead of car ($7/day), skip organized tours and navigate using Maps.me app, bring your own snacks and water. Stay in Ubon both nights to save on Khong Jiam accommodation. Total budget: $30-40/day including accommodation.
Luxury Upgrade
Stay at Tohsang City Hotel or Sunee Grand Hotel ($60-80/night), hire private guide and driver for both days ($80-100/day), dine at top restaurants like Kai Yang Wat Jaeng and riverside fine dining in Khong Jiam, book luxury riverside resort at Khong Jiam like Tohsang Khongjiam Resort with spa treatments, arrange sunset boat cruise on the Mekong. Total budget: $150-200/day.
Family-Friendly
Add Ubon Aquarium for kids, spend more time at Thung Si Muang Park with playgrounds and paddleboats, choose family-friendly Baan Suan Rim Nam resort with pool, pack the afternoon less tightly with rest breaks, visit Wat Nong Pah Pong for peaceful forest walks, bring stroller for younger children as temple grounds are mostly accessible, choose restaurants with air-conditioning and familiar options alongside local cuisine.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Ubon Ratchathani