Things To Do
in Ubon Ratchathani
Ubon Ratchathani is a province located in the northeastern region of Thailand. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, traditional festivals, and beautiful temples. The province is famous for its intricate silk weaving industry, producing some of the finest silk fabrics in the country.
Ubon Ratchathani is also home to Pha Taem National Park, known for its stunning rock formations and ancient cave paintings.
- "Sawasdee" - Hello
- "Khop khun" - Thank you
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai" - No
- "Tao rai?" - How much?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Wat Phra That Nong Bua, a stunning temple featuring a large chedi. Enjoy a peaceful morning walk around the serene grounds.
Head to the Ubon Ratchathani National Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Afterward, explore the nearby City Pillar Shrine for some beautiful architecture.
Savor a traditional Thai dinner at a local restaurant. Take a leisurely walk along the Mun River to enjoy the sunset views.
Visit Phu Chong Na Yoi National Park for a refreshing hike and a chance to see local wildlife. Don't forget to bring along snacks and water for a picnic in nature.
Explore the scenic waterfalls in the park, such as Huai Muang and Huai Pha Pha. Take a dip to cool off and photograph the stunning surroundings.
Return to the city and stroll through the Night Market for dinner. You can try various street food options while shopping for local handicrafts.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and unique traditions.
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including the Mun River and national parks.
- A less touristy destination, providing an authentic Thai experience.
- Friendly and welcoming local communities.
- Affordable cost of living and travel.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Less availability of international cuisine and luxury accommodations.
- Hot and humid climate, especially in the summer months.
- Language barrier for non-Thai speakers; English may not be widely spoken.
- Fewer entertainment options and nightlife compared to bigger cities.
Best Activities in Ubon Ratchathani
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking, viewing prehistoric rock paintings, and visiting the cliff viewpoint
Tours
Uncover the best of Ubon Ratchathani with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ubon Ratchathani
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers breathtaking views of the Mekong River and Laos. Perfect for sunset and photography.
Known for its stunning architecture and panoramic views of Ubon Ratchathani. Great for photography enthusiasts.
Scenic park with diverse landscapes, including river, wetlands, and cliffs, providing ample photo opportunities.
Food in Ubon Ratchathani
Ubon Ratchathani Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular dish made from shredded unripe papaya, tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, and chilies, seasoned with fish sauce, lime juice, and palm sugar. It's best enjoyed at local street food stalls or som tam shops.
Must-Try!
This dish features thinly sliced grilled pork mixed with shallots, green onions, mint, coriander, ground roasted rice, chili powder, and a tangy dressing. Can be found at local eateries and food markets.
A hot and sour curry soup made with fish, mixed vegetables, and flavored with turmeric, tamarind, and fresh herbs. It's a staple dish in most Thai-Lao restaurants in Ubon Ratchathani.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This lively night market offers an array of street food delights including grilled meats, noodle dishes, sticky rice, and a variety of traditional snacks. It's a great spot to experience the local food culture and explore different flavors.
Held every Saturday, this bustling market is a hub of street food vendors offering an assortment of local and international dishes. Visitors can sample everything from grilled seafood to spicy salads and sweet treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is essential to show respect for the Thai monarchy, as any disrespectful behavior towards the king or royal family is considered offensive and illegal in Thailand.
The traditional Thai greeting, known as the 'wai', is a sign of respect. When greeting locals, it is customary to put your palms together in a prayer-like gesture and bow slightly.
When visiting temples, it's important to dress modestly, remove your shoes before entering the temple buildings, and to conduct oneself with quiet and respectful demeanor.
Safety
Tipping in Ubon Ratchathani
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected in restaurants, taxis, or hotels. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip or rounding up the bill may be appreciated.
Cash is the predominant form of payment in Ubon Ratchathani. Credit and debit cards are becoming more widely accepted, especially in larger establishments and tourist areas. It's always wise to carry some cash for small purchases and in case of any establishments that do not accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Ubon Ratchathani with cool and pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities and festivals such as the Candle Festival in July.
Expect hot and dry weather, ideal for exploring the region's natural beauty and enjoying local water festivals like Songkran.
During this time, expect heavy rainfall and humidity, but it offers lush green landscapes and the chance to experience unique events like the Ubon Ratchathani Wax Candle Festival in July.
Ubon Ratchathani at Night
Hiking in Ubon Ratchathani
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A national park known for its mountainous terrain and diverse flora and fauna, featuring various hiking trails and stunning viewpoints.
A popular hiking destination offering scenic views of the surrounding area, with trails suitable for different skill levels.
Famous for its rock paintings and sandstone cliffs, the park offers hiking routes along the Mekong River and breathtaking views of the valleys.
This park features lush forests and a variety of trails leading to waterfalls and natural landscapes, ideal for nature lovers and hikers.
Known for its diverse ecosystems, this park offers hiking paths that take you through beautiful scenery including hills, forests, and rivers.
Aiports
How to reach Ubon Ratchathani by plane.
The closest international airport located in Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand.
Located in Savannakhet, Laos, approximately 100 km from Ubon Ratchathani.
Located in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, about 150 km away.
An airport in Khon Kaen, Thailand, roughly 180 km from Ubon Ratchathani.
An international airport in Trat, Thailand, around 200 km from Ubon Ratchathani.
A major international airport in Bangkok, Thailand, located approximately 500 km from Ubon Ratchathani.
The main international airport serving Bangkok, Thailand, about 500 km from Ubon Ratchathani.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Ubon Ratchathani, Thai people represent the majority of the population, characterized by their language, culture, and traditions.
A significant demographic, especially in areas close to the Laos border, Lao people share cultural and linguistic ties with the Thai population.
Khmer people, mainly found near the border with Cambodia, contribute to the cultural diversity of the region.
A smaller community, Vietnamese people have settled in Ubon Ratchathani over the decades, contributing to the multicultural landscape.
A historical demographic group, the Chinese community in Ubon Ratchathani has influenced local trade and cuisine.
This includes various hill tribes like the Hmong and Karen, representing a small but distinct demographic with unique cultural practices.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional martial art and national sport of Thailand, known for its striking techniques using punches, kicks, elbows, and knee strikes.
A popular team sport in Thailand, with many local clubs and schools participating in matches and tournaments.
A widely played sport in schools and communities, often played in both indoor and beach settings.
A sport native to Southeast Asia that combines elements of volleyball and soccer, played with a rattan ball.
Gaining popularity especially among youth in urban areas and schools, with various leagues and competitions.
A popular racquet sport in Thailand, enjoyed both recreationally and competitively.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ubon Ratchathani.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Thai cuisine often features meat, there are vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes available. Restaurants such as 'J-Dee Home' and 'Khun Jeed Vegetarian' offer a range of plant-based options including stir-fries, curries, and tofu dishes.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can opt for rice-based dishes such as traditional rice noodles, rice porridge, and grilled meats. Communicating dietary needs clearly at restaurants can help in customization of dishes to accommodate gluten-free requirements.