Ubon Ratchathani Safety Guide

Health, security, and travel safety information

Safe with Precautions

Ubon Ratchathani is a generally safe and welcoming destination in Thailand's Isaan region. The local culture is friendly and respectful, and violent crime against tourists is rare. Travelers can comfortably explore the city's temples, markets, and natural attractions with a reasonable sense of security. However, as with any travel destination, practical precautions are essential. Petty theft and opportunistic crime can occur, in crowded areas or late at night. Road safety is a significant concern, as traffic accidents are common. Travelers should also be mindful of seasonal health risks like mosquito-borne diseases and the intense heat. Overall, visiting Ubon Ratchathani is a rewarding experience that requires the same common sense and awareness you would exercise in any unfamiliar place. By staying informed and taking basic precautions, you can fully enjoy the region's rich culture and impressive landscapes.

Ubon Ratchathani is a low-crime, culturally rich destination where the primary risks are road accidents, petty theft, and seasonal health issues.

Emergency Numbers

Save these numbers before your trip.

Police

191

General emergency number for police throughout Thailand.

Ambulance

1669

National Institute for Emergency Medicine (NIEM) hotline for medical emergencies and ambulance services.

Fire

199

Emergency number for fire services.

Tourist Police

1155

Dedicated tourist police who can assist in English. Useful for reporting crimes, scams, or other issues specifically affecting tourists. Available 24/7.

Healthcare

What to know about medical care in Ubon Ratchathani.

Healthcare System

Ubon Ratchathani has a mix of public and private healthcare facilities. The public system is affordable but can be crowded with longer wait times. Private hospitals offer higher comfort levels, English-speaking staff, and international standards, but at a higher cost.

Hospitals

For tourists, private hospitals are recommended. Sunpasitthiprasong Hospital (public, large, and capable but busy) and two excellent private options are: Bangkok Hospital Ubon Ratchathani (modern, international standards) and Ubonrak Thonburi Hospital (also well-regarded).

Pharmacies

Pharmacies ("ร้านขายยา") are widely available throughout the city. Common medications like pain relievers, antidiarrheals, and allergy medicine can be purchased over the counter. Pharmacists can often provide basic advice. Always check expiration dates.

Insurance

Not legally required but HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. Medical evacuation coverage is advised given the region's remote natural attractions.

Healthcare Tips

Carry a card with your blood type, allergies, and important medical conditions in both English and Thai.
For minor ailments, visit a reputable pharmacy first; for serious issues, go directly to a private hospital.

Common Risks

Be aware of these potential issues.

Road Traffic Accidents

High Risk

The leading cause of injury and death for tourists in Thailand. Risks include chaotic traffic in the city, high-speed intercity travel, and poorly lit roads at night. Motorcycles and scooters pose a significant risk.

Always wear a helmet on motorcycles. Be extremely cautious when crossing streets. Avoid driving at night, on rural roads. Use seatbelts in cars/taxis.

Petty Theft/Pickpocketing

Low-Medium Risk

Opportunistic theft of unattended bags, phones, or wallets, in crowded places.

Keep valuables secure and out of sight. Don't leave bags unattended, even on motorbike hooks. Use a money belt or anti-theft bag in markets.

Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Medium (Seasonal) Risk

Risk of dengue fever, chikungunya, and, in rare cases near the Cambodian border, malaria. Risk increases during and after the rainy season (May-October).

Use EPA-approved insect repellent (DEET, Picaridin, IR3535). Wear long, light-colored clothing. Choose accommodation with screens or air conditioning.

Heat Exhaustion/Heat Stroke

High (Hot Season) Risk

Temperatures regularly exceed 35°C (95°F) from March to May. High humidity can exacerbate the risk, leading to dehydration and heat-related illness.

Drink plenty of bottled water. Avoid strenuous activity during midday heat. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and light, breathable clothing. Use sunscreen.

Scams to Avoid

Watch out for these common tourist scams.

Gem/Jewelry Scam

A friendly local or tuk-tuk driver tells you about a "once-in-a-lifetime" government sale or export deal on gems. You are taken to a shop and pressured into buying vastly overpriced, low-quality gems with promises of high resale value abroad, which is impossible.

Politely decline any unsolicited offer to visit a gem shop. Remember there is no legitimate government gem sale for tourists. Only buy gems if you are a certified expert and from a reputable, established dealer.

Tuk-Tuk/Taxi Overcharging

Drivers quote inflated prices to tourists, refuse to use the meter, or claim the meter is "broken."

For taxis, always insist the driver uses the meter ("Meter, ka/krap") before getting in. For tuk-tuks and songthaews, agree on a firm price before the journey starts. Use ride-hailing apps like Grab where available.

Temple/Attraction Closure

A friendly person informs you that the temple or attraction you're heading to is closed for a Buddhist holiday, cleaning, or royal visit. They then suggest an alternative, often a gem shop or a friend's tour business.

Verify opening hours independently. Politely thank the person and proceed to the attraction yourself. Most major temples are rarely closed unexpectedly.

Safety Tips

Practical advice to stay safe.

Transportation

Never ride a motorcycle without a helmet. Rental shops are legally required to provide one.
Be extra vigilant when crossing streets; look both ways multiple times, as traffic patterns can be unpredictable.
For long-distance travel, choose reputable bus companies (e.g., Nakornchai Air, 999) over cheaper, less reliable options.

Money & Valuables

Use ATMs inside banks or well-lit, secure areas during business hours to avoid skimming devices.
Carry only the cash you need for the day. Use a hotel safe for passports, extra cash, and important documents.
Make digital copies of your passport, visa, and insurance documents, stored separately from the originals.

Food & Water

Enjoy street food but choose vendors with high turnover and where food is cooked fresh and hot in front of you.
Drink only bottled or purified water. Avoid ice in drinks unless you are sure it's from a purified source (e.g., cylindrical ice with a hole).
Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer, before eating.

Information for Specific Travelers

Safety considerations for different traveler groups.

Women Travelers

Ubon Ratchathani is generally safe for women travelers, including those traveling solo. Harassment is uncommon but not unheard of. Cultural respect goes a long way in ensuring a positive experience.

Solo female travelers may occasionally receive curious stares or questions but rarely face aggression. Trust your instincts in social situations.
When using public transport at night, consider sitting near other women or families.
Be firm and clear if you wish to decline unwanted advances or invitations. A polite but direct "No, thank you" ("Mai ao, krap/ka") is usually sufficient.

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Thailand. Same-sex marriage is not yet nationally recognized, though progress is being made. Discrimination protections are limited.

Exercise discretion with public displays of affection, outside the city center, to avoid unwanted attention.
The city has a small but friendly local LGBTQ+ scene; online communities can help connect you.
As anywhere, partner hotels are not common; booking a room with two beds is a standard and discreet approach.

Travel Insurance

Essential. It covers medical treatment for accidents ( motorbike-related) and illnesses (like dengue), emergency evacuation from remote areas, trip cancellations, and loss/theft of belongings. Private hospital bills can be high.

High-limit medical coverage (minimum $100,000 USD) Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation Coverage for adventure activities (if planning trekking, motorbiking) Coverage for pre-existing conditions (if declared) Trip cancellation/interruption Theft and loss of baggage/personal items

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