By IvicaS 
Ubon Ratchathani: Thailand’s Eastern Treasure You Never Knew You Wanted To Visit
Suppose Bangkok is the flashy party host and Chiang Mai the hipster cousin with an Etsy shop. In that case, Ubon Ratchathani is the wise elder in a silk sarong, quietly brewing herbal tea while casually being amazing. Nestled deep in Thailand’s Isaan region near the borders of Laos and Cambodia, Ubon (as the cool kids call it) doesn’t often make it to tourists’ bucket lists — but oh, it should.
Let’s dig into everything you never knew you needed to know about this serene and soulful city.
🤔 Where is Ubon Ratchathani, and why haven’t I heard of it?
Ubon Ratchathani is in northeastern Thailand, bordering Laos and Cambodia. It’s the easternmost province and catches Thailand’s first sunrise every morning – metaphorically reminding Bangkok who’s boss.
Why haven’t you heard of it? Because Ubon doesn’t try to impress. It simply is. Authentic, deeply spiritual, and brimming with surprises. No full moon parties here, just candlelight processions that can move you to tears.
🕯️ What is Ubon Ratchathani famous for?
Let’s count the ways:
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Candle Festival (Khao Phansa Festival) – Imagine Mardi Gras, but instead of beads and booze, you get intricate wax sculptures and monks chanting. Held every July, this festival marks the beginning of Buddhist Lent and is Ubon’s time to shine – literally.
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Temples that Whisper Secrets – Like Wat Nong Pah Pong, the forest monastery founded by the revered Ajahn Chah. Or Wat Thung Si Muang, with its floating scripture hall. These temples are less about selfies and more about soul-searching.
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Food that Slaps (Politely) – Isaan food is spicy, funky, and unforgettable. Think grilled chicken (kai yang), fermented sausages, and enough sticky rice to make your grandma proud.
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National Parks That Make You Reconsider Your Gym Membership – Hike through Pha Taem National Park, home to 3,000-year-old cliff paintings and surreal rock formations. Bonus: dramatic sunrises over the Mekong River that scream, “Hey, National Geographic, shoot me!”
🍽️ What food should I try in Ubon Ratchathani?
If your tongue isn’t tingling, are you even eating in Isaan?
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Som Tum (Papaya Salad) – Often lethal, occasionally sweet. Don’t let the bright colors fool you.
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Larb Moo – Spicy minced pork salad that’ll make you sweat and smile at the same time.
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Grilled catfish (Pla Duk Yang) – Ugly fish, tasty finish.
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Sticky rice with mango? Sure, if you’re feeling basic. But here, try sticky rice with grilled pork or spicy dipping sauces instead.
Pro Tip: If a dish is labeled “mild,” assume it can still melt steel.
🧘♂️ Is Ubon Ratchathani good for cultural tourism?
Absolutely. If you’re looking to connect with Thailand’s spiritual roots without bumping elbows with Instagram influencers, Ubon is your paradise.
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Visit the International Forest Monastery (Wat Pa Nanachat) for meditation retreats in English.
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Experience a real Thai village homestay and learn traditional silk weaving – or at least admire how fast everyone else does it.
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Attend Buddhist ceremonies that feel like time travel.
You won’t just watch culture in Ubon – you’ll breathe it in.
🌄 What are the best places to visit in Ubon Ratchathani?
Here’s a bucket list you won’t regret:
Place
Why Go?
Best Time to Visit
Wat Phra That Nong Bua
A glittering, pyramid-shaped temple
Year-round
Pha Taem National Park
Sunrise views + ancient cliff art
Dry season (Nov–Feb)
Sirindhorn Wararam Phu Prao Temple
Glowing tree mural at night
Sunset to nightfall
Sam Phan Bok (Grand Canyon of Thailand)
Epic rock formations in dry season
Jan–April
Kaeng Tana National Park
Great for picnics, swimming & waterfalls
Rainy season for waterfall flow
🚞 How do I get to Ubon Ratchathani?
Good news: Ubon is accessible without needing to charter a yak caravan.
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By Air – Daily flights from Bangkok (approx. 1 hour).
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By Train – Romantic, slow, and surprisingly comfortable overnight journey.
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By Bus – Budget-friendly, AC-equipped, and runs frequently from major cities.
Once there, grab a songthaew (shared truck taxi) or rent a scooter – just don’t forget to honk at dogs napping in the road.
💬 Is English widely spoken in Ubon Ratchathani?
In short: a bit, but don’t count on it.
Locals are friendly and helpful, and body language goes a long way. If all else fails, learn these essentials:
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“Sa bai dee bor?” – How are you? (Isaan dialect)
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“Kin khao yang?” – Have you eaten yet? (The Thai “hello”)
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“Aroi mak!” – Very delicious!
🤩 Why should I visit Ubon Ratchathani over Chiang Mai or Phuket?
Because Ubon offers:
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Fewer tourists, more authenticity
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Lower prices, bigger smiles
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Epic festivals, spiritual depth
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Untouched nature and ancient history
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A vibe that’s slow, soulful, and wildly rewarding
It’s not a matter of “instead of,” but “before it gets famous.” Trust us – Ubon’s glow-up is coming.
🏨 Where should I stay in Ubon Ratchathani?
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Luxurious: The Bliss Ubon – modern amenities and a rooftop bar.
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Mid-range: T3 House – comfy, friendly, and central.
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Budget: Ubon Backpackers – sociable, clean, and colorful.
Pro tip: Stay near Thung Si Muang Park for walkable access to temples and night markets.
💡 Tips for Visiting Ubon Ratchathani
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Respect temple etiquette – Cover up, take off shoes, and don’t use Buddha statues as selfie props.
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Carry cash – ATMs exist, but digital payments are less common.
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Pack bug spray – Especially if you’re heading to national parks.
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Be open to the unexpected – Whether it’s a village wedding or a surprise water buffalo parade, go with the flow.
📌 You may ask...
Is Ubon Ratchathani worth visiting?
Yes, absolutely! Ubon offers a blend of spirituality, natural beauty, and authentic Thai culture, without the crowds or commercialism of major tourist hubs.
What is Ubon Ratchathani known for?
It’s famous for its Candle Festival, serene temples, Isaan food, and stunning natural parks.
How do I get from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani?
You can fly (1 hour), take a train (10–12 hours), or ride a bus (approx. 10 hours). All are safe and budget-friendly.
When is the best time to visit Ubon Ratchathani?
Visit between November and February for cooler weather, or in July for the Candle Festival.
Is Ubon safe for solo travelers?
Yes! It’s a very safe and welcoming city. Just use common sense like anywhere else.
💬 Share Your Ubon Vibes!
Have you wandered through Ubon’s whispering temples, danced through the Candle Festival, or eaten som tum so spicy it made you see Buddha? We’d love to hear your stories!
📝 Drop your thoughts, tips, or questions in the comments below – your experience could inspire another traveler to discover Ubon’s magic!