The unique tile-encrusted bóht at Wat Phu Khao Kaew, on the west side of town, is covered with Khmer symbols, including apsara and dancing Shivas, on the outside, while the interior walls have reliefs of important stupas from around Thailand.
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
21.65 MILES
One of our favourite national parks in Thailand, Pha Taem is named after and centred on a large cliff above the Mekong River. The cliff's ancient rock…
21.68 MILES
These ancient rock paintings, which are at least 1000 years old but probably much older, sit on a cliff face down below the visitors centre. A fantastic,…
23.64 MILES
This temple, also known as Wat Sa Prasan Suk, stands out from other temples in many ways. Most famously, the bòht sits on a boat: a ceramic-encrusted…
25.93 MILES
This spectacular, gleaming gold-and-white chedi is sure to dazzle. It loosely resembles the Mahabodhi stupa in Bodhgaya, India (where the Buddha reached…
18.28 MILES
The views from this busy temple above the town (best seen from atop the bell tower) are alone worth the walk up from Khong Jiam, but it also has a…
24.48 MILES
Built during the reign of Rama III (1824–51), Wat Thung Si Meuang has a classic hŏr đrai (Tripitaka hall) in excellent shape. Like many hŏr đrai, it rests…
27.8 MILES
Nam Tok Soi Sawan is a 25m-tall waterfall flowing from June to December. It's a 19km drive from the visitors centre and then a 500m walk, or you can hike…
Ubon Ratchathani National Museum
24.69 MILES
Occupying the former city hall (built in 1918), this is a very informative museum with plenty on show, from Dvaravati-era Buddhas and 2000-year-old Dong…
Nearby attractions
16.99 MILES
Up Mae Nam Mun from Khong Jiam, this small park is centred on forested Don Tana (Tana Island), linked to the mainland by two pedestrian suspension bridges…
18.28 MILES
The views from this busy temple above the town (best seen from atop the bell tower) are alone worth the walk up from Khong Jiam, but it also has a…
21.65 MILES
One of our favourite national parks in Thailand, Pha Taem is named after and centred on a large cliff above the Mekong River. The cliff's ancient rock…
21.68 MILES
These ancient rock paintings, which are at least 1000 years old but probably much older, sit on a cliff face down below the visitors centre. A fantastic,…
5. Ban Nong Bok Pottery Village
22.45 MILES
One of the main places in Thailand for making clay mortars – essential equipment in any Isan kitchen – lies on the eastern fringes of Ubon. While the…
23.55 MILES
This temple's lovely, modern bòht has a soaring wing-shaped design that creates a striking scene inside. The delightful murals cover many subjects…
23.64 MILES
This temple, also known as Wat Sa Prasan Suk, stands out from other temples in many ways. Most famously, the bòht sits on a boat: a ceramic-encrusted…
23.88 MILES
Locals flock to this island beach in Mae Nam Mun during the hot, dry months from February to May when the sand rises out of the receding river. A cool…