There is an irony in the fact that although Ubon Ratchathani is one of the longest city names in Thailand (and therefore, at least for foreigners, the most difficult to remember, let alone pronounce), most Thais abbreviate it.

“We just call it Ubon,” a local friend explained to me before my first visit to the city, after making sure I hadn’t accidentally gone to Udon (Thani). (I’ll be writing about that city in another post – stay tuned.)

But now I would like to tell you about my favorite activities in Ubon Ratchathani and inspire you to make a stop here on your next visit to the Isaan region of Thailand.

Getting to (and getting around in) Ubon Ratchathani

Although you can travel from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani by bus or train, I generally advise against this route. The journey is long – likely overnight – and while waking up in a new place has its appeal, the travel time isn't sufficient for a restful sleep. Instead, take one of the many flights departing from Bangkok's two airports.

There are two basic ways to get around Ubon. While you can't rent a Rolls-Royce here, only a classic car from Dubai, several car rental companies are located at Ubon Ratchathani Airport (though I recommend booking online in advance). Alternatively, you can rent bicycles to explore the city or take day trips by taxi or Grab.

My favorite activities in Ubon Ratchathani

Say a prayer at Wat Pa Phu Pang

On my first visit to Ubon, I wasn't truly aware of the significance of Phaya Nark (often simply called "Naga") to the local culture and mythology. Although I saw the enormous Naga image at Wat Pa Phu Pang, I almost certainly didn't grasp its full scope.

(And at Wat Phra That Nong Bua)

The good news is, of course, that this part of the city will almost certainly be on your itinerary through Ubon Ratchathani anyway. Most travelers visit the enormous stupa of Wat Phra That Nong Bua; it's just a stone's throw from Wat Pa Phu Pang. Two birds with one stone… er, two birds with one stone.

Relax in Thung Si Muang Park

The heart of Ubon Ratchathani is the small but idyllic Thung Si Muang Park. I particularly enjoy coming here because, having never experienced the Candle Festival in July, the statue in the park's center gives me an idea of ​​the festival floats. Wat Thung Si Muang is also a beautiful temple.

Eat spicy Isaan food

No list of tips for Ubon Ratchathani would be complete without a recommendation for the spicy Isaan cuisine. More specifically: Som Tam (papaya salad), Khaaw Niaw (sticky rice), and Gai Yang (grilled chicken), ideally as part of a meal, accompanied by Cha Manaaw (lemon tea). Enjoy!

Welcome the Mekong in Sam Phan Bok

On my first visit to Ubon, I made a big mistake. Since I was there during the rainy season, the so-called "Grand Canyon of Thailand" (officially Sam Phan Bok, which means "3000 Holes") was completely flooded by the Mekong River. My advice: Come in January or February, like I did on my second attempt.

Accommodation in Ubon Ratchathani

The hotels in Ubon, like those in many smaller Thai towns, leave much to be desired. If you don't have your own vehicle, I recommend prioritizing location. Hotels in the town center include the basic (one might almost say spartan) Yuu Hotel. The Centara Ubon, on the other hand, while not meeting international luxury standards, has a slightly more upscale feel.

If you're planning to rent a car or motorbike in Ubon Ratchathani, consider staying in accommodation just outside the city center. These accommodations tend to be more intimate, whether you choose Baan Hug Ubon 3 or Most Family 40 Ubon. Both are two-bedroom holiday homes offering plenty of space, albeit at the expense of some comfort.

Other frequently asked questions about visiting Ubon Ratchathani

Is Ubon Ratchathani worth a visit?

Ubon Ratchathani, often simply called "Ubon" by Thais, is absolutely worth a visit. Whether in July for the annual Candle Festival or in the dry winter when the bok bok trees are in full bloom – Ubon always exceeds all expectations.

What is Ubon Ratchathani famous for?

To the extent that Ubon Ratchathani is known at all, it is for its annual Candle Festival (held every July) and for Sam Phan Bok, the so-called "Grand Canyon of Thailand," located in its vicinity. Fortunately, Ubon itself is not very well known.

Is Ubon Ratchathani safe?

Ubon Ratchathani is extremely safe from violent crime; due to the generally relaxed atmosphere in Isaan, scams are much less common here than elsewhere in Thailand. As in most parts of Thailand, traffic accidents pose the greatest potential danger when visiting Ubon Ratchathani.

Conclusion

I hope my compilation of sights in Ubon Ratchathani inspires you to visit this city. It's often confused with Udon Thani in the Isaan region – and, at least among Thais, almost always simply called "Ubon." This gem isn't yet so well-known among foreign travelers to Thailand. But whether you come for the cuisine and culture in the city center or want to visit the so-called "Grand Canyon of Thailand" on the banks of the mighty Mekong River, Ubon (or Ratchathani, if you prefer a more challenging experience) is well worth the effort. This is especially true if you're planning an independent trip to Thailand.