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Things to Do in Ubon Ratchathani

Things to Do in Ubon Ratchathani

Ubon Ratchathani Ubon Ratchathani Province, Thailand Travel Guide

Explore the Outdoors

The natural landscapes around Ubon Ratchathani present opportunities for various outdoor adventures.

Hiking & Trekking

Pha Taem National Park

Offers well-marked trails to ancient rock paintings and scenic viewpoints overlooking the Mekong River.

Kaeng Tana National Park

Features trails for walking and exploring its beauty, including rapids and a suspension bridge. Observe local flora and fauna.

Trail Difficulty

Trails vary in difficulty, catering to different fitness levels.

Water Sports & Wildlife

  • Boating trips on the Mun or Mekong rivers around Khong Chiam are popular.
  • See the "Two Color River" confluence up close and enjoy the tranquil river environment.
  • Some local tour operators might arrange kayaking or paddleboarding experiences.
  • Observe large populations of bats emerging from Don Chao Pu (Bat Island) at dusk.

Birdwatching

  • Opportunities for birdwatching within national parks.
  • Diverse avian species reside in Pha Taem and Kaeng Tana.
  • These encounters typically focus on observation.

Guided Tours

  • Consider guided tours for wildlife observation.
  • Local guides provide insights into the ecosystem.
  • Helps in identifying various species.

Book Adventures

  • Find and book outdoor excursions.
  • Use platforms like GetYourGuide.
  • Ensures planned and reliable adventures.

Safety Note for Outdoor Activities

Always inform someone of your plans when venturing into national parks or remote areas. Carry sufficient water and sun protection.

Dive into Local Culture

Ubon Ratchathani is rich in cultural experiences, notably during its renowned festivals and in its daily markets.

Cultural Highlights

  • Candle Festival (Boon Pra Wesa): Internationally famous annual event during Buddhist Lent (July).
  • Features elaborately carved wax sculptures paraded through the city streets.
  • Occasional performances of traditional Isaan music and dance, like Mor Lam.
  • Community-based tourism in rural villages: learn about farming, silk weaving, pottery making.

Local Markets

Talad Yai Morning Market

Visit in the early morning for fresh produce, spices, and a wide array of local breakfast items. It offers an authentic local shopping experience.

Thung Sri Muang Night Bazaar

This market comes alive in the evenings, offering an extensive selection of street food, clothing, and general merchandise.

Immersive Experience

These markets present a lively atmosphere, perfect for an evening stroll and sampling local delicacies.

Festival Planning

Dates for the Candle Festival vary; confirm specific dates according to the lunar calendar before planning your visit.

Respect Local Ways

When attending cultural events or visiting rural communities, observing local customs and traditions will be very helpful.

Photography

Capture the scenes but always be respectful of individuals' privacy, especially at religious events.

Unwind and Recharge

After exploring, Ubon Ratchathani has options for relaxation and traditional wellness practices.

Spa & Wellness

  • Ubon Ratchathani has various local massage parlors throughout the city.
  • These range from simple street-side establishments to more comfortable private rooms.
  • Some larger hotels may feature their own spa facilities, presenting a wider range of treatments.
  • Traditional Thai massage seeks to relieve tension, promote circulation, and upgrade overall well-being.

Traditional Healing

Thai Massage Practice

Traditional Thai massage is a prominent healing practice. This ancient practice combines acupressure, Indian Ayurvedic principles, and assisted yoga postures.

Finding a Reputable Shop

Search for establishments with good reviews or recommendations for a quality experience.

Benefits

Many people report feeling refreshed and relaxed after a session.

Nightlife & Entertainment

Live Music Venues

Several local pubs and bars in the city center may feature live Thai music, from acoustic sets to bands playing popular Thai songs.

Bar Districts

Areas around the city center have a concentration of local bars and karaoke venues, catering mainly to a local crowd.

Thung Sri Muang Night Bazaar

This market has a lively evening atmosphere, combining food, shopping, and some informal entertainment.

Retail Therapy & Souvenirs

Shopping in Ubon Ratchathani mostly focuses on local products, crafts, and market finds.

Traditional Markets

  • Talad Yai (Morning Market): A bustling market for fresh food, spices, and various local goods.
  • Thung Sri Muang Night Bazaar: This evening market offers a wide array of street food, clothing, and general merchandise.
  • Great for souvenir hunting and experiencing the local evening buzz.
  • Bargaining may be possible in some stalls, especially for larger purchases.

Artisan Crafts

Local Shops

Search for local shops specializing in Isaan silk products, cotton weaving, and pottery.

Traditional Crafts

These are traditional crafts of the region, often showing intricate designs and techniques passed down through generations.

Support Local

Supporting these local artisans directly benefits the community.

Souvenir Ideas

  • Local Isaan food products.
  • Fermented sausages (sai krok isaan).
  • Chili pastes (nam prik pla raa).
  • Hand-woven textiles (silk or cotton) and small ceramic items.

Luxury Shopping

  • Limited luxury and extensive boutique shopping.
  • Central Plaza Ubonratchathani offers standard retail.
  • Includes clothing, electronics, household goods.
  • Similar to shopping malls elsewhere.

Ethical Shopping

  • Support local artisans directly.
  • Avoid items from endangered species.
  • Be mindful of products from child labor.
  • Confirm ethical sourcing when possible.

Shipping & Customs

Shipping Large Items
  • If purchasing large items, inquire about shipping options.
  • Ask local vendors or through Thailand Post.
  • Get quotes for international shipping early.
Customs Regulations
  • Be aware of your home country's customs regulations.
  • Especially for food items, textiles, or any products with restrictions.
  • Check import limits and prohibited items before buying.

General Shopping Tips

Carry small notes for easier transactions at markets. Always check the quality of goods before purchasing, especially for handmade items.

Planning Your Activities

Considerations

  • Seasonality: Some outdoor activities (waterfalls, sand dunes) are best during specific seasons.
  • Timing: Plan cultural events or market visits around local schedules.
  • Location: Be aware of travel time to sites outside the city center.
  • Transport: Arrange transport in advance for remote locations.

Suggestions for a Balanced Trip

  • Combine nature excursions with city cultural sites.
  • Dedicate time for authentic Isaan culinary experiences.
  • Explore local markets for unique souvenirs and street food.
  • Allocate time for relaxation and traditional Thai massage.