Ubon Ratchathani City is one of the liveliest cities in Southern Isaan. The province is home to nearly 2 million people, with over 200,000 living in and around the city district. It also serves as a gateway between Thailand and Laos, both for commerce and tourism, making it a perfect stop as you head east toward Southern Laos or return the other way.
If you’re planning to visit or even just passing through Ubon Ratchathani City, you’ll want this travel guide. After spending nearly a week exploring the area, I’ve put together a list of my 10 favorite things to do, along with all the tips and info you’ll need to plan the perfect trip. So without further ado, here’s your complete travel guide to Ubon City!
- Ubon Ratshathani City Things to Do Map
- Where to Stay in Ubon Ratshathani City?
-
10 Best Things to Do in Ubon Ratshathani City
- Check the Golden Monument of Thung Sri Mueang
- Be Amazed by Wat Thung Si Mueang, a Wooden Temple on Stilts
- Learn More About the History of the province at Ubon Ratchathani National Museum
- Drop By Wat Chaeng
- Be Blown Away by Wat Phra That Nong Bua
- Stroll Around the Tree-Shaded Surrounding of Wat Nong Pah Pong
- Enjoy a Drink By the River at Huk Mun Market
- Eat a Big Bowl of Guay Jub Yuan at Ubon Ocha
- Enjoy a Cup of Coffee or Drink at Impression Sunrise
- Have Big Seafood or Isaan meal at on a floating bamboo at Khu Duea Beach
- How to Get to Ubon Ratshathani City?
- How to Get Around Ubon Ratshathani City?
- What to Pack for Ubon Ratshathani City?
- Further Reading for Northeastern Thailand
Ubon Ratshathani City Things to Do Map
10 Best Things to Do in Ubon Ratshathani City
1. Check the Golden Monument of Thung Sri Mueang
Since Ubon Ratchathani is one of the most populous provinces in Southern Isaan, you can expect to find plenty of awesome things to do in the city center. One landmark I recommend checking out is Thung Sri Mueang, a vast park located in the heart of the city. It’s home to the stunning golden monument, which is something you truly have to see for yourself.
The park serves as a focal point for community gatherings and is especially famous for hosting all kinds of events, from the annual Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival to the Songkran Festival, and more.
At the center of the park, you'll find a soaring golden pillar adorned with stunning, intricate patterns and designs, featuring the shape of a royal barge with mythical creatures such as the Garuda at the bow, nagas, and more, all covered in gold from top to bottom. It is the crown jewel of the park and one that got me interested in visiting in the first place.
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At the park, if you are observant enough, you will also find a monument erected by British prisoners of war during World War II, expressing gratitude to the citizens of Ubon Ratchathani for their assistance. Something to keep an eye out for.
I happened to be there during Songkran, and the entire place had turned into a waterpark, with sprinklers shooting water at passersby, a huge foam party, and a local concert that will keep you going for days.
Celebrating Songkran here was a blast. There were hardly any foreigners, so you really get to experience an authentic Songkran celebration. If you happen to be in town during early April, you’re in for a real treat!
Where to Stay in Ubon Ratshathani City?
2. Be Amazed by Wat Thung Si Mueang, a Wooden Temple on Stilts
Not too far from the park, you’ll find Wat Thung Si Mueang, an old wooden temple built on stilts, one of the oldest of its kind in the city. Constructed during the reign of King Rama III (1824–1851), the temple was originally built to house a replica of the Buddha's footprint, a significant religious artifact in Buddhist countries like Thailand.
One of the temple's most striking features is its wooden Tripitaka library, known as the Ho Trai. This structure is elevated on stilts over a pond, a design choice intended to protect the sacred palm-leaf manuscripts from termites and other pests.
It's not very big, but a beautiful historical structure worth seeing nevertheless. There are plenty of shades and benches you can take a break at as you explore the city. There are also bathrooms available here that you can access for free.
The temple is open daily from 5 AM to 7 PM, and like most attractions in the city, entry is free. Honestly, I love exploring off-the-beaten-path provinces like Ubon, no commercialization, just a pure, authentic cultural experience. I absolutely love it!
3. Learn More About the History of the province at Ubon Ratchathani National Museum
Right next to Thung Si Mueang, you will find Ubon Ratchathani National Museum, one of the best museums in the region with a massive collection of archaeological artifacts and a wonderful place to stroll around and learn more about the rich history of Ubon Ratchathani.
The museum is housed in this charming, yellow-colored colonial-era building constructed in 1918. The building was originally the city hall before being converted into a museum in 1989.
The museum's well-curated exhibits span various historical periods, with highlights including 3,000-year-old pottery unearthed in Isaan and rare Buddha statues from different eras.
One particularly unique artifact is a statue of a Hindu god in a sitting position, the only one of its kind in Southeast Asia. You will also find massive old wooden sculptures, religious boundary stones that are only found in Ubon Ratchathani, and so much more.
If you're a history buff and want to dive deeper into this part of Thailand, you'll love the national museum. It's open from 9 AM to 4 PM, Wednesday to Sunday, with an entrance fee of 100 THB. Just a heads-up, they're closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.
4. Drop By Wat Chaeng
Also located in the city center is Wat Chaeng, an old temple constructed in the late 19th century by a local ruler at the time. The temple's name, "Wat Chaeng", means "Bright Temple", which originated from the fact that it is located north of the old city, where travelers would arrive at dawn.
One of the highlights here is the traditional Isaan architecture showcased in the temple's ordination hall. This temple is a true example of distinct Isaan design, with its single-tiered roof adorned with intricate wooden carvings, staircase balustrades sculpted into crocodile forms, a rare and unique feature, and more subtle regional details throughout.
It's a small temple, but one with a charm you won't find anywhere else. Be sure to drop by and check out its ordination hall while you're in Ubon City. The temple ground is open 24/7 every day and the entry is free.
5. Be Blown Away by Wat Phra That Nong Bua
Located not too far from the city center, you will find Wat Phra That Nong Bua, one of the most iconic and architecturally striking temples in Ubon Ratchathani. Built in 1956 to commemorate the 2,500th anniversary of Buddhism, the temple's centerpiece is the 56-meter-tall white and gold pagoda modeled after the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, India, where the Buddha attained enlightenment.
The chedi features a square base and pyramid-like structure, with each side adorned by a meditating Buddha statue. Surrounding the main chedi are four smaller stupas, also painted in white and gold, creating perfect symmetry.
The inside is even more impressive, with a seated Buddha image at the center, surrounded by towering pillars that stretch all the way up to the top of the chedi, supporting its incredible height. The pillars are covered in gold, while the beams are adorned with red and gold patterns.
The entire interior is intricately designed, and I was in awe as I stepped inside and looked up. It's definitely a must-visit when you are in Ubon Ratchathani. The temple is open from 6:30 AM to 8 PM daily, and the entry is free.
6. Stroll Around the Tree-Shaded Surrounding of Wat Nong Pah Pong
Another cool temple you might want to visit in Ubon Ratchathani is Wat Nong Pah Pong, a modern temple located in a forest-covered area just outside of the city center. The temple is surrounded by tall trees creating a calm and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for meditation or for those who seek to be among nature for a while.
The temple is so peaceful that it has become a popular spot for both Thais and foreigners to participate in Vipassana retreats. Here, you can live like a monk for a few days, spending time meditating, helping around the temple, and learning about the Buddhist way of life, all without having to pay a dime.
Right at the center of the tree-shaded temple ground, you will find a beautiful golden pagoda that, although looks traditional on the outside, the inside feels more like you are in a spaceship, which I think was really cool.
There is also a 3-storey museum inside the temple premise built in memory of Ajahn Chah, one of the great Thai Meditation masters of the 20th century, that you can visit and learn more about his life.
If you are looking for a calm place to visit near Ubon Ratchathani city center, be sure to come and check out Wat Nong Pah Pong. The temple is open from 5 AM to 6 PM daily and the entry is free.
7. Enjoy a Drink By the River at Huk Mun Market
If you're looking for a charming spot by the river to enjoy a drink and take in the sunset, one of the best places is Huk Mun Market. It's a modern food market with makeshift bars and restaurants, offering a great atmosphere to unwind and enjoy the view.
The market is located right on the banks of the Mun River, the main river flowing through the city, and it's a fantastic spot to catch the sunset over the water. There are plenty of seats available along the riverbank, along with several bars and restaurants, some set up inside repurposed train cars, where you can enjoy food and drinks.
There’s also live music and occasional small concerts in the evening, so if you're looking for a place to relax and unwind after sunset, you’re going to love Huk Mun Market. The market is open from 4 PM to 12 AM, though it really comes alive after 6 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.
8. Eat a Big Bowl of Guay Jub Yuan at Ubon Ocha
One of my favorite restaurants in Ubon Ratchathani, and a favorite among locals, is Ubon Ocha, a local eatery that has been serving delicious meals at the same spot for decades.
One of their standout dishes is Guay Jub Yuan, a Thai-Vietnamese-style noodle soup. You can choose from a variety of meats, including pork, chicken (they even offer chicken feet for the adventurous!), Vietnamese sausage, and more.
What’s even better is the affordability, especially considering the size of the bowl. After one serving of Guay Jub Yuan, I was completely full, maybe even a little too full! They also serve traditional breakfast dishes like Khai Krata (egg-on-a-pan), Thai-Vietnamese bread, hot traditional coffee, and more.
The soup was tasty and delicious. I love it! If you’re looking for a true local treat in Ubon Ratchathani, you can’t go wrong with Ubon Ocha. The restaurant is open daily from 5:30 AM to 3:00 PM, so make sure to get there before it closes!
9. Enjoy a Cup of Coffee or Drink at Impression Sunrise
The youth art scene in Ubon Ratchathani is vibrant, although it’s something many foreigners might not immediately notice. As a Thai, I can recognize it right away, and one of the places that truly embodies this youthful creativity is Impression Sunrise.
Impression Sunrise is a vibrant cultural hub in Ubon Ratchathani that seamlessly blends art, food, and community spirit, unlike any other place in the city center. Housed in this renovated four-story building, you'll find a charming café, a lively bar with outdoor seating and live music at night, an airy rooftop bar where you can hang out, and an art gallery to explore.
During the day, it’s a quiet and tranquil spot, perfect for a cup of coffee as you relax and enjoy the artsy atmosphere. In the evening, it transforms into a lively venue where young people gather to enjoy great live music and more. If you’re looking for a place to unwind in the city center, this is definitely worth a visit. The venue is open from 8:30 AM to 12 AM daily.
10. Have Big Seafood or Isaan meal at on a floating bamboo at Khu Duea Beach
Who says Isaan doesn’t have beaches? Well, technically, Khu Duea Beach isn’t the kind of beach Thailand is famous for, there’s no coastline here, but Isaan is home to plenty of rivers. This sandy stretch, located about 12 km from Ubon City, is one of the most popular spots for locals to gather with their families, cool off from the region’s constant heat, and enjoy a massive seafood and Isaan-style meal on a floating bamboo raft.
Situated along the Mun River, this seasonal sandbar emerges during the dry season, and you will find many makeshift restaurants popping up along the sandy strip that you can choose from.
Most of the restaurants here are quite similar, as many share the same kitchen. However, the most popular one is Phueng Moon Restaurant, so if you’re unsure where to go, this is a solid choice. They’re open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM, with the liveliest atmosphere in the evening during dinner time.
The restaurant is geared more towards big groups, but couples can still enjoy many of the dishes. For solo travelers, though, it might not be ideal, as the menu leans heavily on shared dishes with large portions, so bring some friends along if you can!
How to Get to Ubon Ratshathani City?
By Plane: The fastest way would be to fly from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani Airport via AirAsia. The flight should take about 1.5 hours and costs around 1,000 THB. For the best price of flights, check out Skyscanner or Expedia.
By Train: You can also take a train from Bangkok's Aphiwat Central Terminal Station to Ubon Ratchathani Train Station. There are about 12 trains running between the 2 cities with a variety of classes you can choose from, ranging from a third-class seat to a second-class seat with AC or fan, prices ranging from 250 THB to 1,000 THB, respectively. The journey should take about 8 - 11 hours, depending on which train you choose. You can see the schedule and book online here.
By Bus: Another great way to get to Ubon Ratchatani is by buses and vans. They often leave from Morchit Bus Station, operated by several companies. The price ranges from 500 to 770 THB and takes between 8 - 12 hours depending on the bus size and the traffic. You can find the schedule and book online here.
By Car: If you have a car or are renting one, you can also drive from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani. It’s a pretty straightforward journey, thanks to the newly built M6 Highway, out of Bangkok and drive east straight to Ubon Ratchathani. The whole journey should take about 7 - 8 hours. You can rent a car through DiscoverCars.
How to Get Around Ubon Ratshathani City?
By Car: Honestly, the best way to get around Ubon Ratshathani is by renting a car. Most of its attractions are quite spread out, and the Isaan heat is no joke.
While renting a motorbike is possible, it's not the most comfortable option, plus, you'll often be riding on highways, which can be dangerous, especially for inexperienced riders.
For the most convenient experience, I highly recommend renting a car and driving yourself. You can rent one directly from Ubon Ratchathani Airport, or pick one up at Bangkok’s airports and make the journey from there. You can book a rental through DiscoverCars.
What to Pack for Ubon Ratshathani City?
As you may already know, I am an advocate of light traveling, and indeed, packing light for a journey like this is a unique art form. Here are some packing tips for your upcoming trip to Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand:
- Walking/Hiking Shoes: With all the walking and possible hiking during your travel, a comfortable pair of shoes is a must. I recommend the Timberland 3-Eye Classic Boat Shoes that are my go-to pair for long strolls and hikes.
- Breathable Shirts: Given the potential for hot weather, pack a few breathable shirts for your outdoor adventures.
- Shorts/Jeans: Anticipate lots of walking during your travels? Be sure to pack some breathable shorts and a pair of Levi's jeans for when the weather cools. For women, leggings are excellent for both hot and cold climates, so consider packing some as well.
- Outer Shell Jacket: An outer shell jacket is great for windy or rainy conditions. I highly recommend the Columbia Watertight Jacket (for women). It's lightweight, breathable, and even comes in a cool orange color.
- Microfiber Towel: A Microfiber towel is the ideal backpacker's towel due to its lightness, quick drying, and compressibility.
- Swim Suits: A swim trunk is a must-pack item if you are planning to visit Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand in the summer, just in case there is a body of water you can jump in.
- Camera: You should also pack a good camera for your trip so that you can capture all the beautiful experiences you might have. I recommend the Sony a7R V camera together with the Sony 24-70mm f2.8 GM II lens, which is probably the highest-performance camera and lens combination you can get right now.
- Power Bank: Keep your electronics charged on the go with a 20,000+ mAh Power Bank.
- Water Bottle: The Hydro Flask Trail Water Bottle is a great insulated water bottle to have with you in cities or on hiking trails. It is lightweight and can keep your water cold or warm for more than 12 hours. It's a total game-changer.
- Universal Adapter: You'll need just one universal adapter to plug in your electronics in any country you visit.
- Packing Cubes: Packing Cubes will help you save space in your backpack and keep all your belongings organized.
- Daypack: The Langly Alpha Globetrotter is my go-to everyday camera backpack. It's large enough to carry all my travel gear, and it comes with plenty of slots and pouches. Plus, it's stylish as hell!
- Large Backpack: You will need a large backpack to carry all of your stuff. I recommend the Osprey Atmos AG 65L backpack. With excellent weight distribution and a lifetime guarantee, you can't go wrong with Osprey.
For more information on what I pack in my backpack for this trip, check out: My Packing List: 60 Travel Essentials.
Now that we have all the information we need, it's time to start planning your trip! Here are some resources to help you get going:
Are you planning to travel independently? Be sure to check out my guide on How To Plan A Backpacking Trip here.
Further Reading for Northeastern Thailand
Looking for more information about your trip to Northeastern Thailand? Here is a collection of articles about Northeastern Thailand that you might find useful:
- Tired of the well-trodden parts of Thailand and looking to really go off the beaten path? How about a road trip around Isaan? My itinerary covers all 20 provinces in the Isaan region, and more, so be sure to check it out: One Month Itinerary for Isaan.
- As the gateway to Isaan, you can't travel to the region without passing through Nakhon Ratchasima or Korat for short. To help guide you through the province, check out 10 Impressive Things to Do in Korat (Nakhon Ratchasima).
- Home to Phanom Rung, one of the most well-preserved Khmer temples in Thailand, Buriram is an awesome place to visit as you explore Southern Isaan. If you plan to visit Buriram, check out Discover Buriram: 11 Awesome Things to Do and More.
- One of the best times to visit Phanom Rung is during the Phanom Rung Festival, where you'll find parades, light and sound shows, and more. Here's a complete guide to visiting the Phanom Rung Festival: Phanom Rung Festival: A Complete Travel Guide
- Passing through Surin and wondering what to do? Check out this travel guide: Visit Surin: 10 Incredible Things to Do and More
- Curious about the coolest things to do in Si Saket? Check out: Discover Si Saket: 11 Amazing Things to Do and More
- One of the best places to visit in Isaan is Ubon Ratchathani. If you're looking for things to do there, check out: Ubon Ratchathani: 14 Amazing Things to Do and More
- Planning to cross the land border between Thailand and Cambodia to visit Siem Reap? You might want to stop by Sa Kaeo, a Thai border province full of awesome things to do. For the full guide, check out: Exploring Sa Kaeo: 8 Best Things to Do and More
- Interested in learning more about the unique music of Isaan? Check out this guide: The Sounds of Isaan: Thai Psychedelic Music Unknown to Many – A Guide to Mor Lam.
- Come explore the lesser-known mountainous region of Phetchabun with this travel guide: Discover Phetchabun: 10 Incredible Things to Do and More.
- Tired of the constant heat in Thailand? Escape to the cool mountains of Khao Kho with this guide: A Complete Travel Guide to Khao Kho.
- As a gateway to the mountains of Phetchabun, Lom Sak is the perfect place to stop by before you head into the mountains. For a complete travel guide, check out: A Complete Travel Guide to Lom Sak.
- Want to explore Loei and its mountainous scenery and vibrant culture? Check this out: Exploring Loei: 10 Best Things to Do & More.
- Looking to explore Chiang Khan and its wonderful tourist attractions? You are going to need this travel guide: Chiang Khan Travel Guide: 8 Best Things to Do & More.
- Want to experience the colorful Phi Ta Khon Festival, where locals wear elaborate costumes and ghost masks? Check out this guide: Phi Ta Khon Festival: A Complete Travel Guide.
- Nong Khai is often overlooked by many travelers traveling between Thailand and Laos, but there's so much to do here. If you are interested to explore more of the frontier province of Nong Khai, check out: Explore Nong Khai: 12 Best Things to Do & More.
- Bueng Kan is emerging as Isaan’s new adventure hotspot, known for the famous Naka Cave, Phu Tok mountain, scenic waterfalls, and more. If you're planning a trip to Bueng Kan, don't miss this: Discover Bueng Kan: 10 Best Things to Do & More.
- The walking street and riverside views along the Mekong in Nakhon Phanom are absolutely legendary, and a must-visit in Isaan. If you’re planning a visit, don’t miss my full guide here: Visit Nakhon Phanom: 10 Best Things to Do & More.
- Sleepy Sakon Nakhon is full of surprises—from the colonial French buildings of Tha Rae Village to hidden Khmer temples tucked away in the jungle. Check out this complete travel guide to Sakon Nakhon: Exploring Sakon Nakhon: 10 Best Things to Do & More.
- Udon Thani is a big city with tons of things to do. If you plan to visit Udon Thani, be sure to check out this travel guide: Discover Udon Thani: 10 Awesome Things to Do & More.
- If you’re driving through Nong Bua Lamphu and wondering if there are any places worth seeing, check out this travel guide: Visit Nong Bua Lamphu: 8 Incredible Things to Do & More.
- Khon Kaen is a big province with plenty to do. If you want to visit but aren’t sure where to start, this guide is for you: Discover Khon Kaen: 12 Awesome Things to Do & More.
- Kalasin may be a small province in Isaan, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do. If you’re passing through, be sure to check this out: Kalasin Guide: 8 Best Things to Do & More.
- Mukdahan may not be as popular as other Mekong towns like Chiang Khan or Nakhon Phanom, but it offers a laid-back vibe and chill atmosphere unlike its larger counterparts. Don’t skip Mukdahan! Here’s a complete travel guide to help you explore this lovely province: Exploring Mukdahan: 10 Cool Things to Do & More.
- If you are passing through Amnat Charoen and are wondering what there is to do there, then check out this guide: Visit Amnat Charoen: 9 Best Things to Do & More.
- Yasothon is where the famous Bun Bung Fai Festival or rocket festival takes place, and it's home to some really charming Isaan attractions not many people know about. Here's a complete guide to Yasothon: Discover Yasothon: 10 Incredible Things to Do & More.
- Roi Et is definitely one of my favorite provinces in Isaan, thanks to its beautiful and modern city center, iconic landmarks like the Roi Et Tower, and more. If you’re interested in visiting Roi Et, be sure to check out Explore Roi Et: 12 Amazing Things to Do & More.
- If you are wondering what to do in Maha Sarakham, this guide is for you: Visiting Maha Sarakham: 9 Amazing Things to Do & More.
- If you like mountains and are looking for a true hidden gem of Isaan, which is already a hidden gem in itself, you might want to check out Chaiyaphum, all as I called it the land of beautiful cliffs. Here's a complete guide to Chaiyaphum: Discover Chaiyaphum: 12 Incredible Things to Do & More.
- Looking for a complete travel guide to Southeast Asia? You should check out our 3-Month Backpacking Itinerary for Southeast Asia.
- Looking for an itinerary for Thailand? Check out One Month Itinerary for Thailand.
- If you are traveling to Thailand, it is important for you to know what you should and shouldn't do. Here are 10 Tips for Traveling in Thailand.
- Thai Street Foods are among the best in the world, and to help guide you through the street food cuisine of Thailand, be sure to check out the 15 Best Street Foods in Thailand to Try.
- Learning a bit of Thai phrases will go a long way for you when you visit Thailand. Here are 15 Thai Phrases You Should Know.
- Photos are worth a thousand words, but what is worth more than photos? A video. Here are travel videos I made for Thailand: Timeless Thailand, a journey into the North of Thailand, Long Tail Thailand, exploring the beautiful south of Thailand, and taking it slow with Slowed Down Bangkok travel video.
- Wondering where to go after Thailand? How about continuing on to Malaysia, Myanmar, or Indonesia?
- Want to explore other parts of Thailand? How about exploring Northern Thailand, Southern Thailand or Central Thailand?
- Want to travel from Thailand to Vientiane, Laos? Check this guide out: How to Get From Thailand to Vientiane, Laos & Vice Versa.
- Looking to cross the border from Thailand to Pakse in Southern Laos? Check out: How to Get From Bangkok/Ubon Ratchathani to Pakse, Laos, and Vice Versa.
- Want to cross the border from Mukdahan to Savannakhet in Laos and vice versa? Check out: How to Get From Bangkok/Mukdahan to Savannakhet, Laos & Vice Versa.
- For all articles about Thailand, visit the Thailand Travel Guide page.
- Looking to travel to Southeast Asia? Check out all my articles about Southeast Asia here: Southeast Asia Travel Guide page.
- You can see all my Asia-related articles here: Asia Travel Guide page.
- For more of my travel guides like this, visit my Destinations page.
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