Are you looking for a unique and authentic destination in Thailand that offers a blend of nature, culture, adventure, and relaxation? If so, you may want to consider Ubon Ratchathani, the easternmost province of Thailand that borders Laos and Cambodia.
Ubon Ratchathani, which means the Royal City of the Lotus, is a hidden gem that boasts of stunning natural wonders, ancient historical sites, colorful religious festivals, and delicious local cuisine. In this article, we will show you how to get to Ubon Ratchathani, where to stay, what to do, and what to eat in this amazing province.
How to Get to Ubon Ratchathani
There are several ways to travel to Ubon Ratchathani, depending on your budget, preference, and schedule. The most convenient and fastest way is to fly from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani International Airport, which takes about an hour and costs around 1,000 to 2,000 baht ($30 to $60) one way. There are several flights per day operated by Thai Airways, Thai Smile, Nok Air, and Air Asia.
Another option is to take a train from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani, which takes about 10 to 12 hours and costs around 300 to 1,500 baht ($10 to $50) one way, depending on the class and type of train. There are two trains per day, one in the morning and one in the evening, that depart from Hua Lamphong Railway Station and arrive at Ubon Ratchathani Railway Station.
A third option is to take a bus from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani, which takes about 9 to 10 hours and costs around 400 to 600 baht ($15 to $20) one way. There are many buses per day that depart from Mochit Bus Terminal and arrive at Ubon Ratchathani Bus Terminal.
A fourth option is to drive from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani, which takes about 8 to 9 hours and covers a distance of about 630 kilometers. You can rent a car from Bangkok and follow the route 1, 2, and 24 highways to Ubon Ratchathani. The road is well-maintained and scenic, but you may encounter some traffic and tolls along the way.
Some tips and advice on how to choose the best option for traveling to Ubon Ratchathani are:
- If you are short on time and want to maximize your stay in Ubon Ratchathani, flying is the best option, as it is the fastest and most comfortable way to get there.
- If you are on a budget and don’t mind spending a night on the road, taking a train or a bus is a good option, as they are cheaper and more eco-friendly than flying. You can also enjoy the views and meet some locals along the way.
- If you are adventurous and want to explore the countryside and the nearby provinces, driving is a good option, as it gives you more flexibility and freedom to stop and go as you please. However, you should be familiar with the Thai driving rules and regulations, and have a valid driver’s license and insurance.
Where to Stay in Ubon Ratchathani
Ubon Ratchathani offers a variety of accommodation options for different types of travelers, ranging from luxury hotels to budget hostels, from cozy guesthouses to authentic homestays, and from urban apartments to rural camping sites. Here are some information and recommendations on the best places to stay in Ubon Ratchathani, based on different criteria:
Comfort:
If you are looking for a comfortable and relaxing stay in Ubon Ratchathani, you may want to check out the Tohsang City Hotel, a four-star hotel that features spacious and elegant rooms, a swimming pool, a spa, a restaurant, and a bar. The hotel is located in the city center, close to the main attractions and amenities. The price for a standard room starts from 1,200 baht ($40) per night.
Convenience:
If you are looking for a convenient and accessible stay in Ubon Ratchathani, you may want to check out the Rapeepan Ville Hotel, a three-star hotel that offers modern and cozy rooms, a fitness center, a coffee shop, and a shuttle service. The hotel is located near the airport, the railway station, and the bus terminal, making it easy to get in and out of the city. The price for a standard room starts from 800 baht ($25) per night.
Value:
If you are looking for a value-for-money and quality stay in Ubon Ratchathani, you may want to check out the Baan Suan Hotel, a two-star hotel that provides clean and comfortable rooms, a garden, a terrace, and a bicycle rental service. The hotel is located in a quiet and green area, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The price for a standard room starts from 400 baht ($15) per night.
Experience:
If you are looking for an authentic and memorable stay in Ubon Ratchathani, you may want to check out the Ban Kiangnam Homestay, a traditional Thai house that offers simple and rustic rooms, a shared kitchen, a dining area, and a host family. The homestay is located in a rural village, surrounded by rice fields and lotus ponds. You can experience the local lifestyle, culture, and cuisine, and join the host family in their daily activities, such as fishing, farming, and cooking. The price for a standard room starts from 300 baht ($10) per night.
What to Do in Ubon Ratchathani
Ubon Ratchathani has a lot to offer for travelers who are interested in nature, culture, adventure, and relaxation. Here are some of the best attractions and activities that you can enjoy in Ubon Ratchathani, categorized by theme:
Nature
Ubon Ratchathani is blessed with a rich and diverse natural environment, with mountains, rivers, waterfalls, forests, and caves. Some of the best natural attractions and activities in Ubon Ratchathani are:
Pha Taem National Park: This is one of the most popular and impressive national parks in Thailand, where you can see the unique and ancient rock formations and cave paintings that date back to 3,000 to 4,000 years ago. You can also enjoy the panoramic views of the Mekong River and the Pha Taem cliffs, and spot some rare plants and animals, such as the Siamese crocodile, the banteng, and the hornbill. The entrance fee for the park is 200 baht ($6) for foreigners and 40 baht ($1) for Thais. There is also a café where you can have some snacks and drinks.
Sam Phan Bok: This is a natural phenomenon and attraction that is also known as the Grand Canyon of Thailand, which consists of thousands of holes and shapes that are formed by the erosion of the Mekong River. You can marvel at the beauty and diversity of the formations, and take some stunning photos. The best time to visit Sam Phan Bok is during the dry season, from November to April, when the water level is low and the holes are visible. You can also hire a local guide or a boat to take you around the area. The entrance fee for Sam Phan Bok is free, but you may have to pay for the guide or the boat service.
Kaeng Saphue: This is a scenic and relaxing spot where you can see the rapids and the rocks that are shaped like a whale, a turtle, and a crocodile. You can also enjoy the breeze and the shade of the trees, and have a picnic or a barbecue on the banks of the river. There are also some restaurants and shops where you can have some food and drinks. The entrance fee for Kaeng Saphue is free, but you may have to pay for the parking or the rental of the picnic facilities.
Huai Luang Waterfall: This is a beautiful and refreshing waterfall that is located in the Phu Chong Nayoi National Park. You can swim in the clear and cool water, or relax on the rocks and listen to the sound of the waterfall. You can also hike along the trails and explore the forest and the wildlife. The entrance fee for the waterfall is 200 baht ($6) for foreigners and 40 baht ($1) for Thais, which includes the entrance fee for the national park.
Culture
Ubon Ratchathani is rich in culture and history, with temples, museums, monuments, and festivals. Some of the best cultural attractions and activities in Ubon Ratchathani are:
Sirindhorn Wararam Phu Prao Temple: This is a beautiful and magical temple that changes its appearance and color when the sun sets and the night falls. You can see the temple glow in different shades of blue, purple, pink, and green, and admire the intricate and exquisite architecture and design. You can also see the pigs that live in the temple and love to be cuddled by visitors. The entrance fee for the temple is free, but you may have to pay for the parking or the donation.
Wat Thung Si Muang: This is a historic and elegant temple that is located in the center of Ubon Ratchathani, and is famous for its wooden library that houses ancient scriptures. You can see the library that is built on stilts in a lotus pond, and admire the exquisite carvings and paintings that depict the life of Buddha. You can also visit the main hall and the pagoda that are decorated with gold and colorful tiles. The entrance fee for the temple is free, but you may have to pay for the parking or the donation.
Wat Nong Bua: This is a unique and stunning temple that is inspired by the Mahabodhi Temple in India, where Buddha attained enlightenment. You can see the temple that is shaped like a pyramid, and has four towers and a spire that are covered with gold and silver. You can also see the statues and relics of Buddha that are displayed in the temple. The entrance fee for the temple is free, but you may have to pay for the parking or the donation.
Ubon Ratchathani National Museum: This is a informative and interesting museum that showcases the history and culture of Ubon Ratchathani and the surrounding regions. You can see the exhibits and artifacts that date back to the prehistoric, Dvaravati, Khmer, Lan Xang, and Rattanakosin periods, and learn about the art, architecture, religion, and lifestyle of the people. You can also see the replica of the Phra Kaew Morakot, the Emerald Buddha, that is the most revered image of Buddha in Thailand. The entrance fee for the museum is 100 baht ($3) for foreigners and 30 baht ($1) for Thais.
Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival: This is a colorful and festive event that is held every year in July, to mark the beginning of the Buddhist Lent. You can see the parade of giant and elaborate candles that are carved and decorated by local artists, and depict scenes from the Buddhist mythology and history. You can also join the locals in the celebration of the culture and tradition of Ubon Ratchathani, and enjoy the music, dance, food, and fireworks. The entrance fee for the festival is free, but you may have to pay for the transportation or the souvenirs.
Adventure
Ubon Ratchathani is a great place for travelers who are looking for some adventure and excitement, with activities such as rafting, cycling, ziplining, and exploring. Some of the best adventure attractions and activities in Ubon Ratchathani are:
Ubon Zoo: This is a fun and educational place where you can see and interact with various animals, such as elephants, giraffes, monkeys, and birds. You can also enjoy the shows and performances that feature the animals and their skills, such as the elephant show, the bird show, and the crocodile show. You can also try the zipline that takes you across the zoo, and gives you a bird’s eye view of the animals and the scenery. The entrance fee for the zoo is 100 baht ($3) for foreigners and 50 baht ($1.5) for Thais, and the zipline fee is 300 baht ($10) per person.
Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival: This is a thrilling and challenging activity that involves rafting on the Mun River, which is one of the main tributaries of the Mekong River. You can experience the rapids and the currents of the river, and enjoy the views of the nature and the villages along the way. You can also stop at some of the islands and the beaches that are on the river, and have a picnic or a swim. You can book a rafting tour from one of the local operators, or rent a raft and a guide from the Phibun Mangsahan District Office. The rafting fee varies depending on the operator, the duration, and the distance of the rafting trip, but it usually ranges from 500 to 1,500 baht ($15 to $50) per person.
Cycling around the city: This is a fun and healthy way to explore the city and its attractions, and to get a glimpse of the local life and culture. You can rent a bicycle from one of the shops or hotels in the city, and follow the routes and the maps that are provided by the Tourism Authority of Thailand or the Ubon Ratchathani Municipality. You can cycle around the city center, and visit the temples, the parks, the markets, and the museums. You can also cycle outside the city, and visit the countryside, the villages, and the farms. The bicycle rental fee is around 50 to 100 baht ($1.5 to $3) per day, depending on the type and quality of the bicycle.
Relaxation
Ubon Ratchathani is also a perfect place for travelers who are looking for some relaxation and rejuvenation, with activities such as massage, meditation, cooking, and shopping. Some of the best relaxation attractions and activities in Ubon Ratchathani are:
Ubon Ratchathani Night Market: This is a lively and vibrant place where you can shop, eat, and enjoy the atmosphere of the city at night. You can find a variety of goods and products, such as clothes, accessories, souvenirs, handicrafts, and electronics. You can also find a variety of food and drinks, such as noodles, grilled meat, seafood, desserts, and fruit juices. You can also enjoy the entertainment and the performances that are provided by the local artists, such as singers, dancers, and magicians. The night market is open every day from 5 pm to 10 pm, and is located near the Ubon Ratchathani Bus Terminal.
Ubon Ratchathani Massage: This is a relaxing and soothing activity that involves getting a traditional Thai massage, which is a combination of stretching, pressing, and kneading of the muscles and the joints. You can choose from different types and durations of massage, such as foot massage, oil massage, herbal massage, or full body massage. You can also choose from different places and settings, such as a spa, a salon, or a temple. You can expect to pay around 200 to 500 baht ($6 to $15) per hour for a massage, depending on the type and the place of the massage.
Ubon Ratchathani Cooking Class: This is a fun and educational activity that involves learning how to cook some of the local dishes and snacks that Ubon Ratchathani has to offer. You can join a cooking class that is offered by one of the local restaurants or hotels, or by a private instructor. You can learn how to prepare and cook some of the dishes and snacks that we mentioned earlier, such as som tam pla ra, kai yang, khao jee, kanom jeen nam ya, and khao pun. You can also learn about the ingredients, the spices, and the techniques that are used in the Ubon Ratchathani cuisine. You can expect to pay around 1,000 to 2,000 baht ($30 to $60) per person for a cooking class, depending on the number and the type of the dishes and snacks that you learn.
Ubon Ratchathani Meditation Retreat: This is a peaceful and spiritual activity that involves practicing meditation and mindfulness in a serene and tranquil setting. You can join a meditation retreat that is offered by one of the temples or the centers in Ubon Ratchathani, such as the Wat Pah Nanachat, the International Forest Monastery, or the Suan Mokkh Ubon. You can learn how to meditate and practice mindfulness from the monks or the teachers, and follow the daily schedule and the rules of the retreat. You can also enjoy the simple and healthy lifestyle, and the natural and beautiful environment of the retreat. You can expect to pay around 100 to 300 baht ($3 to $10) per day for a meditation retreat, depending on the duration and the type of the retreat.
What to Eat in Ubon Ratchathani
Ubon Ratchathani has a delicious and distinctive cuisine, that is influenced by the neighboring countries of Laos and Cambodia, as well as the local Isan culture. Ubon Ratchathani cuisine is characterized by spicy, sour, salty, and herbal flavors, and the use of local ingredients, such as fish, bamboo shoots, mushrooms, and herbs. Here are some of the best dishes and snacks that you can try in Ubon Ratchathani, and some of the best places to eat them:
Som tam pla ra:
This is a spicy and sour salad made with green papaya, fermented fish sauce, chilies, garlic, lime juice, and peanuts. This is one of the most popular and iconic dishes of Ubon Ratchathani, and is usually eaten with sticky rice and grilled chicken. You can find this dish in almost any restaurant or street stall in Ubon Ratchathani, but one of the best places to try it is the Som Tam Jay So restaurant, which is located near the Ubon Ratchathani Bus Terminal, and is open from 9 am to 9 pm.
Kai yang:
This is a grilled chicken marinated with lemongrass, garlic, turmeric, and coriander. This is another popular and classic dish of Ubon Ratchathani, and is usually eaten with som tam and sticky rice. You can find this dish in many restaurants and street stalls in Ubon Ratchathani, but one of the best places to try it is the Spicy restaurant, which is located near the Ubon Ratchathani Railway Station, and is open from 10 am to 10 pm.
Khao jee:
This is a grilled sticky rice cake that is stuffed with pork, egg, and cheese. This is a delicious and filling snack that is popular among the locals, and is usually eaten in the morning or in the afternoon. You can find this snack in many street stalls and markets in Ubon Ratchathani, but one of the best places to try it is the Khao Jee Pa Tew stall, which is located near the Ubon Ratchathani National Museum, and is open from 6 am to 6 pm.
Kanom jeen nam ya:
This is a rice noodle dish served with a curry sauce made with fish, coconut milk, and spices. This is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is common in the northeastern region of Thailand, and is usually eaten with fresh vegetables and herbs. You can find this dish in many restaurants and street stalls in Ubon Ratchathani, but one of the best places to try it is the Kanom Jeen Nam Ya Pa Mai restaurant, which is located near the Ubon Ratchathani Zoo, and is open from 7 am to 4 pm.
Khao pun:
This is a rice vermicelli soup with pork ribs, bamboo shoots, mushrooms, and herbs. This is a hearty and aromatic dish that is typical of the Lao and Khmer cuisines, and is usually eaten with chili paste and lime juice. You can find this dish in many restaurants and street stalls in Ubon Ratchathani, but one of the best places to try it is the Khao Pun Pa Lek restaurant, which is located near the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival, and is open from 8 am to 5 pm.
Ubon Ratchathani is a wonderful and diverse destination that has something for everyone. Whether you are into nature, culture, adventure, or relaxation, you will find plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy in Ubon Ratchathani. You will also be able to taste some of the most delicious and distinctive dishes and snacks that Ubon Ratchathani has to offer. Ubon Ratchathani is a hidden gem that deserves to be discovered and explored by more travelers. If you are looking for a unique and authentic experience in Thailand, you should definitely consider visiting Ubon Ratchathani.
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