Isaan, which you can sometimes see transliterated to Esan or even Esarn, is the biggest region in Thailand. It is a vast area with friendly people, spicy foods, and a bit of a laid back vibe, especially outside the big four cities, namely Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, and Ubon Ratchathani. These modern urban centers don’t differ much from other big cities in Thailand as they offer all modern amenities, including fast internet, great shopping malls, and Western food, but they do have a different, much less touristy vibe.
Out of these four cities, Ubon Ratchathani is the farthest from Bangkok, as it is actually the easternmost province of Isaan. This sleepy province borders Laos and Cambodia and offers a mix of cultures and ethnicities with Khmer, Laotian, and Kuy peoples and languages all present. It’s possible to fly into Ubon Ratchathani, and drive around the province even if you don’t have your own vehicle as motorbike and car hire in Ubon Ratchathani airport is a quick and easy process that will have you behind the wheel in no time.
In this article we will take a look at some of the best options for a short trip within the province. All of these will have you driving through some scenic landscapes with rice paddies, temples, quirky and cute coffee shops, and plenty of restaurants serving local delicacies and cold drinks.
Pha Thaem National Park
This national park is famous for its hills and cliffs that offer breathtaking views of the Mekong river and the surroundings. Pha Thaem National Park is a phenomenal spot for anyone who enjoys hiking, photography, or just being in nature. Sunrise is an especially beautiful time to find yourself at the park as the park’s cliffs reflect the rising sunlight in a beautifully glowing way.
This National Park is located in Khong Chiam district and can be reached in about an hour and a half from Ubon Airport or the city center.
Two-Color River(Mae Nam Song Sii)
Staying in Khong Chiam district, it would be unfortunate to come to Ubon Ratchathani and not see Mae Nam Song Sii, which literally translates to Two-Color River. It is the place where Mun and Mekong rivers meet. Different sediments in these rivers result in different colors, with the might Mekong resembling a red-lime color, and Mun river’s water being a shade of indigo.
This natural phenomenon is best witnessed during the rainy season, and the best viewpoint is probably around Wat Khong Chiam temple, about 80 km from the city of Ubon. There are small souvenir shops, food stalls and restaurants, even boats that you can hire for a small cruise down the river to explore even more of its natural beauty.
Wat Nong Pah Pong
This is a temple that’s not far from the city center, so it would be a shame to miss it if you are interested in Buddhism and meditation, as this temple offers a great insight into the tradition of meditation. Situated in a forested area of Warin Chamrap district, the temple was founded by Arjan Chah, it boasts a museum, a compelling stupa, and beautiful serene pathways through the forest where you can enjoy the gentle sounds of the forest. The temple grounds spread across a few acres, so you can spend a while walking around and just unwinding from all the stress that awaits in the real world.
Ubon Zoo
Ubon Zoo is a very nice place that all animal lovers will appreciate. It is a huge space, with not too many animals, so the animals have big enclosures with ample space to enjoy a fairly happy life. There are carts to rent, and tour buses to hop on if you don’t feel like walking. This zoo is famous for its big cats section where you can find some stunning specimens, and the zoo is not too busy so you will not be rushed by other visitors and will have all the time in the world to enjoy all the magnificent animals, take as many photos as you’d like, and just have lots of fun!
The zoo is only a 15 minute car ride from the airport and Ubon city center, so it would definitely be a shame for any animal lover to miss.
Conclusion
Ubon Ratchathani is a province worth visiting. From the extremely friendly, even for Thai standards, locals, to delicious foods, beautiful nature, and stunning temples, Ubon Ratchathani province is a very relaxing place that might be much different from what you imagine Thailand to be. There are a few tourists, no beaches, and you can still get a feel of a “Thailand of the old days”. There are many beautiful places to explore around the province, and we recommend renting a vehicle and exploring it all at your own pace. We’re sure you won’t regret it!
