DestinationsAsiaThailandUbon Ratchathani

Ubon Ratchathani - Travel destination image

About Ubon Ratchathani

Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand's easternmost province, offers a captivating blend of ancient Khmer heritage, serene natural landscapes, and vibrant Buddhist culture. Known as the 'Royal Lotus City,' it's famous for the spectacular Candle Festival in July, where enormous, intricately carved beeswax candles parade through the streets during Buddhist Lent. Travelers can explore magnificent temple ruins like Wat Phra That Nong Bua and the Khmer-style Prasat Ban Ben, remnants of the ancient Angkorian empire. The province is a gateway to the Mekong River, where you can witness stunning sunsets and visit riverine communities. Nature lovers will be drawn to Pha Taem National Park, home to prehistoric cliff paintings and dramatic sandstone cliffs overlooking Laos. Ubon's unique Isan culture shines through its distinctive cuisine, traditional silk weaving, and warm hospitality. Don't miss the serene Mun River, the sacred Wat Thung Si Muang with its beautiful library, and the opportunity to experience authentic rural Thai life far from crowded tourist trails.

Travel Tips for Ubon Ratchathani

Getting Around

Songthaews (converted pickup trucks) are the main public transport within the city, following set routes. Tuk-tuks and motorcycle taxis are available for shorter trips—negotiate fares beforehand. Car and motorbike rentals are available but require an international driving permit. Popular ride-hailing apps like Grab operate in Ubon city. For longer distances, use local buses or rent a car with driver. Bicycles are great for exploring the city center and riverfront areas.

Best Time To Visit

November to February (cool season) offers pleasant temperatures (20-30°C) and minimal rainfall, ideal for exploring temples and national parks. July is perfect for experiencing the famous Candle Festival, though it's hot and humid. Avoid March to May (hot season) with extreme heat, and June to October (rainy season) when flooding may occur, though landscapes are lush.

Local Customs

Dress modestly when visiting temples (cover shoulders and knees). Remove shoes before entering temple buildings and homes. The wai (pressing palms together) is the traditional greeting. Tipping is not expected but appreciated in tourist establishments (10% in restaurants if service charge not included). Respect monks—women should not touch them or hand objects directly. Avoid touching people's heads or pointing feet at Buddha images. The Isan culture is more relaxed than central Thailand—embrace the slower pace.

Safety Information

Ubon Ratchathani is generally safe with low violent crime. Exercise normal precautions: secure valuables, avoid isolated areas at night, and be cautious when crossing streets. Common scams include overcharging by unmetered tuk-tuks and gem scams. The city center and tourist areas are safe. Avoid political demonstrations. Road safety is a concern—wear helmets on motorbikes and drive defensively, especially on rural roads. The border areas with Laos and Cambodia should be approached only at official crossings.

Health Information

Ubon Ratchathani has several well-equipped hospitals including Sunpasitthiprasong Hospital (public) and Bangkok Hospital Ubon Ratchathani (private). Common health concerns include heatstroke, food/waterborne illnesses, and mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever. Drink bottled or boiled water, use insect repellent, and ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date. Consider hepatitis A, typhoid, and Japanese encephalitis vaccinations. Medical facilities are adequate in the city but limited in rural areas. Travel insurance with medical evacuation is recommended.

Languages Spoken

ThaiIsan (Lao dialect)Khmer

Quick Facts

Currency

Thai Baht (THB)
฿

Timezone

Asia/Bangkok +07:00 (GMT)

Calling Code

+66

Electricity

Type A, B, C, O; 220V, 50Hz
Socket types →

Driving Side

Left

Population

1.8 million

Area

15744 km²

Government

Provincial Administration

ISO Code

TH-34