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Best Times to Visit

Best Times to Visit

Ubon Ratchathani Province, Thailand

Seasonal Overview

Hot Season (March - May): Temperatures during this period can soar, often ranging from 30°C (86°F) to over 40°C (104°F). April is usually the hottest month. Humidity remains high, making the heat feel even more intense. Days are long and sunny. Many locals seek refuge in air-conditioned spaces or by staying indoors during the midday heat. Outdoor activities during the peak of the day can be challenging.

Rainy Season (June - October): This season brings relief from the intense heat, with temperatures generally ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F). Humidity remains high, but frequent heavy rainfall cools the air. The heaviest rains usually fall from August to September. Showers often come in intense bursts, lasting for an hour or two, followed by clear skies. While rain is common, it rarely pours all day, every day. Cool Season (November - February): This is the driest and most pleasant period for visiting. Daytime temperatures are comfortable, ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F). Humidity is significantly lower than in other seasons. Evenings can bring a noticeable drop in temperature, sometimes falling to 15-20°C (59-68°F), for comfortably cool nights. Clear skies are common, for excellent visibility.

When to Travel

  • High Season (Nov-Feb): Pleasant weather for outdoor activities. More tourists.
  • Shoulder (Mar-May, Jun-Jul): Fewer tourists, lower prices. Hotter in early period, rain later.
  • Low Season (Aug-Oct): Lowest prices, fewer crowds. Frequent heavy rainfall.
  • Candle Festival: Plan for July for this unique cultural event (dates vary).

Important Considerations

From June to October, significant rainfall occurs. While Ubon Ratchathani does not typically experience hurricanes, tropical depressions bring prolonged heavy rain, sometimes lasting for several days. This impacts travel plans, causing temporary road closures or making some remote areas less accessible.

Always monitor local news and weather forecasts, especially if traveling during this period. For comfortable temple visits during the hot or shoulder seasons, arrive early in the morning.

Outdoor Activities

Cool Season (Nov-Feb)

Best Time

Pleasant temperatures and clear skies for sightseeing.

Avoid If

Dislike crowds or higher prices.

Waterfall Visits

Late Rainy/Early Cool Season (Sept-Nov)

Best Time

Water levels high for impressive cascades.

Avoid If

Prefer dry weather for hiking.

Cultural Festivals

July (Candle Festival)

Best Time

Unique cultural experience.

Avoid If

Sensitive to heat or humidity with potential rain.

Ideal Season Guide

Activities & Conditions

The Cool Season (November - February) makes outdoor exploration, including temple visits, national parks, and hiking, comfortable due to pleasant temperatures and lower humidity. Clear skies are common.

Seasonal Impact

Waterfalls like Saeng Chan Waterfall are at their maximum flow in the late Rainy Season (September - October) or early Cool Season (November). The Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival usually occurs in July, during the rainy season, so prepare for warm, potentially wet weather.

Season at a Glance

  • November - February

    Cool & Dry. Best for outdoor exploration.

  • March - May

    Hot. Ideal for Songkran (April).

  • June - July

    Early Rainy. Lush greenery, fewer tourists.

  • August - October

    Peak Rainy. Lowest prices, but frequent heavy rain.

  • Festivals

    Candle Festival in July. Songkran in April.

Monsoon Precautions

  • Monitor local weather forecasts during monsoon (June-Oct).
  • Be aware of potential temporary road closures due to heavy rain.
  • Some remote areas may be less accessible during peak rain.

Planning Insight

For comfortable temple visits during the hot or shoulder seasons, arrive early in the morning. This allows exploration before the peak heat of the day.

Visa & Entry Requirements

Regulations can change, so always consult the official website of the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in your country for the most up-to-date and specific information before travel.

Visa Exemption

Citizens of many countries (USA, Canada, UK, Australia, EU, Japan, South Korea, Singapore) receive visa-exempt entry for tourism.

Details

  • Stay up to 30 days (air/land entry).
  • No prior visa application needed.
  • Granted upon arrival by immigration.
  • Valid for short tourist stays.

Visa on Arrival VOA

Citizens of certain countries (India, China, Kazakhstan) can obtain a Visa on Arrival.

Details

  • Fee applies, often 2,000 THB.
  • Permits a stay up to 15 days.
  • Ubon Ratchathani Airport (UBP) does not handle direct international arrivals; VOA process applies via Bangkok connections.
  • Not all land borders offer VOA.

Tourist Visa TRV

When to Apply

  • For longer stays, exceeding visa-exempt/VOA limits.
  • If your nationality does not qualify for other options.
  • Allows stay up to 60 days, extendable in Thailand.
  • Obtain from Royal Thai Embassy/Consulate in your home country.

Documentation

  • Complete application forms.
  • Recent passport-sized photos.
  • Proof of onward/return ticket.
  • Proof of sufficient funds (check embassy for amount).

General Entry Documents

  • Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond departure, with one blank page.
  • Onward/Return Ticket: Proof of confirmed travel departing Thailand within permitted stay.
  • Proof of Accommodation: Booking confirmations for lodging.
  • Sufficient Funds: Around 10,000 THB/person or 20,000 THB/family (for visa-exempt entry).

Entry & Immigration

No entry fees for visa-exempt travelers. VOA has a stated fee. Present passport and completed arrival card to immigration.

Procedures

  • Biometric scans (fingerprints, photo) may occur.
  • Officer stamps passport with permitted stay length.
  • No special permits for Ubon Ratchathani tourism.
  • Border crossings into Laos or Cambodia need separate visa/entry research.

Health Entry Rules

Thailand generally does not impose specific vaccination requirements for entry for most travelers. A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is only necessary if arriving from or transiting through a country with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission.

Budgeting & Costs

The local currency is the Thai Baht (THB). Familiarize yourself with banknotes (20, 50, 100, 500, 1000 THB) and coins (1, 2, 5, 10 THB, and satang).

Currency & ATMs

  • ExchangeBanks and exchange booths offer good rates.
  • ATMsWidely available. Foreign transaction fee (typically 220 THB).
  • Bank NotificationInform your bank of travel plans.

Daily Spending Estimates

  • Budget Traveler800 - 1,500 THB (~$22 - $40)
  • Mid-range Traveler1,500 - 3,000 THB (~$40 - $80)
  • Luxury Traveler3,000+ THB (~$80+)
  • Street Food/Local Stall40 - 100 THB per dish

Accommodation Costs

  • Basic Guesthouse/Hostel200 - 500 THB/night
  • Mid-range Hotel800 - 1,500 THB/night
  • Luxury Hotel/Resort2,000 - 5,000+ THB/night

Meal & Transport Prices

  • Local Restaurant80 - 250 THB per dish
  • Western/Fine Dining300 - 800+ THB per dish
  • Songthaew (local ride)20 - 50 THB per ride
  • Grab/Taxi (short)80 - 200 THB per ride

Money Saving Tips

Eat LocalFocus on street food and markets.
Use SongthaewsMost economical city transport.
Enjoy Free AttractionsMany temples have free admission.
Direct Accommodation BookingCheck for direct booking discounts.
Bargain PolitelyAcceptable in markets and for chartered transport.
TippingNot customary in casual eateries.

Tipping Etiquette

  • Not customary or expected in casual eateries or for street food vendors.
  • In mid-range to fine dining, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is appreciated (check for service charge).
  • For hotel staff or tour guides, a small tip (e.g., 20-100 THB) is a nice gesture.
  • No need to tip taxi drivers or songthaew drivers.

Health & Safety Considerations

Information on important health and safety considerations for your journey to Ubon Ratchathani.

Vaccinations & Prevention

  • Required: Yellow Fever (if from risk country).

    International health regulation, not Thailand specific.

  • Recommended: Consult travel health professional (4-6 weeks advance).

    Personalized advice based on itinerary and activities.

  • Common: Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Rabies, Japanese Encephalitis.

    Recommended for typical traveler exposures.

Common Health Concerns

Traveler's Diarrhea, Dengue Fever, Heatstroke/Dehydration, Sunburn.

Drink sealed Bottled water, use Insect repellent, stay hydrated, and use Sunscreen.

Carry Anti-diarrhea medication like Loperamide. Wear long sleeves/pants for mosquito protection.

Recognize symptoms: dizziness, headache, excessive sweating for heat issues.

Healthcare & Hygiene

  • 1
    Access to Care: Good quality medical care.

    Sunpasitthiprasong Hospital (public), Ratchavej Hospital Ubonratchathani (private, English staff). Pharmacies available.

  • 2
    Drinking Water Safety: Tap water not safe.

    Always drink sealed bottled water. Check seals. Consider LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle.

  • 3
    Food Hygiene: Choose wisely.

    Eat from busy, clean street food stalls. High turnover means fresh ingredients.

Safety & Crime

Ubon Ratchathani is generally safe for tourists. Violent crime is rare.

Petty Crime Awareness

  • Be aware of pickpocketing or bag snatching in crowded areas (markets, bus stations, festivals).
  • Keep valuables out of sight and use a secure bag.
  • Do not leave belongings unattended.

Scam Prevention

  • Beware of inflated taxi fares or unsolicited offers for tours/gems.
  • Agree on prices beforehand or use metered taxis/Grab.
  • Less prevalent here than in major tourist hubs.

Natural Hazards

Main risk is seasonal flooding during monsoon (Aug-Oct), especially near Mun and Mekong rivers.

Flooding

Monitor local news and weather forecasts for updates.

Road Closures

Temporary road closures may occur; follow local authority guidance.

Forest Fires

Can occur in dry season, usually do not affect tourist areas.

Emergency Contacts

Phone Numbers

  • Tourist Police1155
  • General Emergency191
  • Ambulance/Medical1669
  • Fire Department199

Travel Insurance Resources

Safety Check

Confirm driver's details (photo, license plate) match the app before entering a Grab vehicle. For metered taxis, always confirm the use of the meter at the start of the journey.