Ubon Ratchathani
Ubon Ratchathani sits at the far eastern edge of Thailand, where the Mun River meets the Mekong and Laos is close enough to see across the water. It is one of those Thai cities that few foreign travel...
About Ubon Ratchathani
Ubon Ratchathani sits at the far eastern edge of Thailand, where the Mun River meets the Mekong and Laos is close enough to see across the water. It is one of those Thai cities that few foreign travelers visit, which is precisely why visiting feels like such a discovery. I arrived on the overnight s...
Population
191,000
Region
Isaan
Hidden Gems
Sam Phan Bok (3000 Holes)
"A spectacular section of the Mekong riverbed that reveals thousands of eroded rock holes and turquoise pools during the dry season. Often called the Grand Canyon of Thailand, this geological wonder is best visited from December to May."
Wat Sirindhorn Wararam (Glow Temple)
"A modern temple whose exterior walls are painted with fluorescent murals depicting the Bodhi tree and mythical creatures. After dark, the paintings glow an eerie green, creating one of the most unique temple experiences in Thailand."
Top Attractions
Wat Thung Si Muang
Historic Buddhist temple in the city center, famous as the venue for the annual Candle Festival. Features impressive architecture and is central to Ubon's cultural and spiritual life.
Sam Phan Bok
Geological formation along the Mekong River featuring hundreds of rocky depressions that fill with turquoise water during low season. Often called the 'Grand Canyon of Thailand'.
Pha Taem National Park
National park featuring prehistoric cliff paintings (3,500+ years old), scenic viewpoints overlooking the Mekong River, and hiking trails through diverse landscape.
Where to Stay in Ubon Ratchathani
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Activities & Tours in Ubon Ratchathani
Best Restaurants
Ricco Caf
Bar and international cuisine venue with high TripAdvisor rating. Popular with both tourists and locals for quality drinks and food.
The Outside Inn
Mexican and bar cuisine restaurant located in a guesthouse setting. Known for quality food and welcoming atmosphere.
Indochine - Ubon Ratchathani
Asian and Vietnamese cuisine restaurant reflecting Ubon's cross-border influences. Specializes in Vietnamese and Isaan fusion dishes.
Peppers Restaurant & Bakery
Mexican and international cuisine restaurant with bakery offerings. Known for quality coffee, breakfast options, and Western-Thai fusion dishes.
Zaap Soi 9
Authentic Thai restaurant serving traditional Isaan cuisine. Known for genuine local flavors and reasonable prices.
Kai Yang Wat Jaeng
Famous grilled chicken specialist marinating chicken in lemongrass and garlic, slow-grilled over charcoal. Served with sticky rice and jaew dipping sauce.
Recommended Hotels
Yuu Hotel & Cafe
$74/nightMid-range hotel with stylish rooms and integrated cafe. Offers good balance of comfort and value with modern amenities.
Centara Ubon
$42/nightEstablished mid-range hotel offering reliable comfort and service. Good location with standard amenities for touring the city.
The Bliss Ubon
$24/nightBudget-friendly hotel with high guest satisfaction. Offers clean, comfortable rooms at excellent value.
Rapeepan Ville Hotel
$22/nightMid-range hotel offering comfortable accommodation with decent amenities. Well-regarded by guests for service and cleanliness.
Travel Tips
- Sam Phan Bok is only visible when the Mekong water level is low — visit between December and May. The rock formations are most spectacular in January-March. During rainy season (June-November), the site is completely submerged.
- The Candle Festival falls on Asanha Bucha Day in July (exact date varies yearly by lunar calendar). Book accommodation well in advance — the city fills up completely. The parade typically runs along Upparat Road in the morning.
- Pha Taem and Sam Phan Bok are 70-100 km from the city with limited public transport. Rent a car (800-1,200 THB/day) or hire a driver through your hotel. The roads are good but the distances require a full day for each site.
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