Relax at in Thailand

Ubon Ratchathani Province The province of Ubon Ratchathani is tucked in the southeast corner of the northeast region, bordering with Laos and Cambodia. It is more prosperous than most provinces in the northeast and is surrounded by a more verdant landscape. The provincial capital, known simply as Ubon, is located on the banks of the Mun River - Thailand's second longest river. The city was once dominated by Dvaravati and Khmer kingdoms, before being settled by Lao people in the late 18th century.Along with Udon Thani and Korat, it became a US air base during the Vietnam war. The province benefited from the arrival of the US forces, who set up the infrastructure for the present day city. Up until recently the border region with Cambodia was not considered a safe place to travel; due to the activities of the Khmer Rouge along the border.

Places of Attraction

Ubon National Museum The museum is situated on Kheuen Thani Rd, near the TAT offices. It was once a palace of King Rama VI. It houses many objects from the Dvaravati and Khmer periods, along with general information on Ubon history. One of the rooms concentrates on the pre-history of Ubon, with a collection of stone and bronze utensils, pottery and burial urns similar to that found at Ban Chiang.

Wat Thung Si MeuangSituated in the centre of town, off Luang Rd. The wat was built during the reign of King Rama III (1824-1851). The most outstanding feature of the compound is the wooden tripitaka library, or hor trai, which is built on stilts in the middle of a small pond.

Wat Phra That Nong BuaThis temple is located on the northern outskirts of town, just off Chayankun Rd, travelling towards Nakhon Phanom. The angular chedi is based on the Mahabodhi stupa in Bodhgaya, India. The niches on the four-sided chedi contain standing Buddhas, in closed robes. The outside of the chedi is also decorated with fine Jataka reliefs.

Wat SupatanaramThis riverside temple was built in 1853, in a mixture of Thai, Khmer and European styles. The stone bot is surrounded by fine lintels, one of which is believed to date from the 7th century. In front of the bot is a large wooden gong, the largest in the country.

Wat Nong Pa PhongLocated about 8 km south of Ubon, in Warin Chamrap district. This forested temple and meditation centre was founded by the much revered monk, the late Acharn Cha.Acharn Cha also founded many other temples in the area, and even one in Sussex, England. Many westerners have studied here over the years: some have been ordained as monks and have remained here.

Hat Khu DeuaTake a break from the heat and visit the 'beach'. On the northern banks of the Mun River there are several shaded spots perfect for a picnic, or a quiet little snooze.

Hat Wat TaiThis river 'island' is a large sandbank in the middle of the Mun River. Locals come here to picnic and there are several foodstalls that set up in the evenings.


Pha TaemThis sandstone cliff overlooks the Mekong River in Khong Chiam district, about 95km northeast of Ubon. The cliff face features prehistoric paintings of elephants, fish, turtles and geometric designs that are 3,000 years old. A trail leads from the cliff top, down past platforms to view the paintings, to the base. From the top of the cliff you can get a good view of Laos.