Ubon Ratchathani can be discovered through very different details: prehistoric rock paintings, the Mun River, embroidered silk and a parade of intricately carved candles. Archaeological evidence, landscapes and craftsmanship give the province a diverse character.
Rock Art, Inscriptions and Textile Art
The archaeological site of the prehistoric rock paintings at Pha Taem is located in Pha Taem National Park and is registered as an ancient monument. Another archaeological trace can be found in Phra Cave in Kaeng Tana: there is an inscription and the base of a Shiva lingam. Both are dated to approximately the 12th to 13th Buddhist centuries. The rock paintings and cave finds therefore offer different points of interest for anyone interested in the region’s history.
In Ban Kham Pun, in Amphoe Warin Chamrap, textile art shapes the local landscape. The village is known for mixed Mat Mi silk embroidered with colored silk as well as silver and gold threads. Visitors can watch an intricate weaving process there. If you would like to experience it, confirm the current visiting arrangements in advance.
Pha Chanadai in Pha Taem National Park is also a viewpoint where you can watch the sunrise. Alongside the archaeological finds, it offers a nature experience tied to a specific time of day: the viewpoint is suited to the early morning.
The Mun River and its waterscapes
The province has plateaus and mountain ranges, with the Mun River flowing through its center. Don Tana is an island lying across the Mun River and dividing it into two branches. In Kaeng Tana, a suspension bridge connects the park office with Don Tana. It is Thailand’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge. As its physical condition may change, check whether it is currently open before your visit.
The waterfalls also reveal different sides of the landscape. Below Tad Ton Waterfall in Kaeng Tana is a pool where swimming is possible; water conditions vary seasonally. In Phu Chong-Nayoi National Park, the large Huai Luang Waterfall plunges over a cliff from a height of about 45 meters.
At Sam Phan Bok, the focus is not on the height of a waterfall but on a landscape of rocks shaped by water erosion: the natural formation includes more than 3,000 small and large pools. Comparing it with the waterfalls makes visible the different forms that water has shaped in the region.
Nature Trails and Guided Routes
Ubon Zoo follows a Jungle Park model that combines animal habitats with the existing forest within the grounds. It has three nature trails measuring 318, 740 and 1,464 meters. The shortest of these trails is 318 meters long, the longest is 1,464 meters, and the 740-meter trail lies between them. For student groups, the program includes one-day educational visits and two-day overnight camps with one night’s stay. It is intended for public and private educational institutions.
At Sao Chaliang, a nature trail is planned for visitors and should only be used with a staff member accompanying them. To access the route at Phu Hin Dang, contact the national park staff so they can arrange a guide. These two notes help with planning, as the trails have different requirements for accompaniment.
Candle Festival and Regional Cuisine
The Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival takes place on Khao Phansa Day. A parade of large, intricately carved candles passes through the city. The exact event dates vary, so check the dates for your travel period in advance.
Regional dishes are also part of the discoveries: white pork sausage is one of the dishes recommended for food lovers to try in Ubon Ratchathani. Emerald Triangle is also known as a regional name: it refers to the part of Ubon Ratchathani that borders Cambodia and Laos.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Amphoe Khong Chiam, Ban Thai, Warin Chamrap, Ubon Ratchathani, Song, Dom Pradit, Non Ko, Samrong District, Nong Kin Phen, Tha Pho Si
For the main travel overview: Thailand.
