Natural Attractions
Pha Taem National Park
Experience the stunning landscapes of Pha Taem National Park, where ancient rock formations and prehistoric cave paintings blend with the Mekong River’s scenic views. The park is famous for its cliffs that offer breathtaking sunrise vistas, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Sam Phan Bok
Known as the 'Grand Canyon of Thailand,' Sam Phan Bok features thousands of natural rock pools that are visible only during the dry season. This unique geological formation along the Mekong River offers a spectacular sight and a great adventure for those who enjoy exploring the outdoors.
Huai Luang Waterfall
Discover the serene beauty of Huai Luang Waterfall, nestled within the lush landscapes of Phu Jong Na Yoi National Park. This majestic three-tier waterfall cascades into vibrant blue pools, creating a refreshing retreat for visitors looking to escape the heat and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Pha Taem
Visit Pha Taem, a remarkable cliff area that offers not only historical insights with its ancient paintings but also panoramic views of the Mekong River and Laos. It’s an ideal spot for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty that Ubon Ratchathani has to offer.
Cultural Attractions
Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival
Witness the elaborate candle sculptures paraded through the city during the Khao Phansa period in July. This vibrant festival showcases the artistic talents of locals and reflects the deep-rooted Buddhist traditions of the region, with beautifully carved beeswax candles depicting various mythological and religious scenes.
Ban Pa Ao Brass Village
Visit Ban Pa Ao, where traditional brass-making has been preserved by generations. The village is renowned for its high-quality brass crafts, including ceremonial bowls and bells. Engage with local artisans and observe the fascinating process of brass crafting that has sustained their community for centuries.
Khmerat Walking Street
Explore the bustling atmosphere of Khemarat Walking Street, where locals and visitors alike gather for an evening filled with cultural exchange, shopping, and sampling local delicacies. This vibrant street market offers a plethora of local crafts, traditional Thai and Isaan food, live music, and performances, encapsulating the lively spirit of Ubon Ratchathani.
Historical Attractions
Wat Thung Si Muang
Explore Wat Thung Si Muang, home to a beautiful wooden scripture hall built during the late 18th century. The temple’s library, situated on stilts in the middle of a pond to protect the scriptures from insects, is a fine example of traditional Thai architecture and offers insight into the local methods used to preserve sacred texts.
Ubon Ratchathani National Museum
Dive into the history of Ubon Ratchathani and its surrounding regions at the Ubon Ratchathani National Museum. Housed in a restored colonial building, the museum displays a collection of artifacts ranging from archaeology to local crafts, offering a comprehensive look at the area’s cultural and historical heritage.
Buddhist Attractions
Wat Phra That Nong Bua
Visit Wat Phra That Nong Bua to see one of the city’s most revered Buddhist stupas. Built in 1956 to commemorate the 2500th anniversary of Buddhism, the stupa is modeled after the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, India, and is a major religious site attracting thousands of pilgrims each year.
Wat Sirindhorn Wararam Phu Prao (Wat Phu Prao)
Experience the serene atmosphere and stunning luminescence of Wat Sirindhorn Wararam Phu Prao, especially at night when the unique fluorescent tree painting behind the temple glows vibrantly, creating a magical and tranquil environment for meditation and reflection.
Wat Pa Nanachat (International Forest Monastery)
Engage with a unique monastic experience at Wat Pa Nanachat, an international forest monastery that follows the Thai Forest Tradition. This monastery offers a chance to study Buddhism in English and hosts a diverse community of monks from around the world, fostering a unique cultural and spiritual exchange.
Wat Nong Pa Pong
Visit Wat Nong Pa Pong, renowned for its adherence to the strict forest monastery practices of meditation and simplicity. This monastery is surrounded by dense forest, providing a peaceful retreat for monks and lay visitors seeking to deepen their meditation practice and understanding of Buddhist teachings.