Ubon Ratchathani

อุบลราชธานี

The largest city in Isan and gateway to the region, known for its vibrant Candle Festival and riverside temples. Essential for experiencing northeastern Thai culture and cuisine with excellent transport connections.

Things to do

• Wat Thung Si Muang — The city's most important temple featuring a striking mondop (reliquary) and serene riverside setting, essential for understanding Ubon's spiritual heart.
• Candle Festival (Awk Phansa) — Thailand's most spectacular candle festival held in July where elaborate wax sculptures parade through streets, drawing crowds from across the country.
• Mekong River Sunset at Wat Nong Khai — Watch the sun set over the Mekong River from this peaceful temple, offering views into Laos and a tranquil evening atmosphere.
• Ubon National Museum — Housed in a beautifully restored French colonial mansion, it displays artifacts revealing Isan's history, culture, and royal connections.
• Talat Kao (Old Market) — The bustling traditional market offering local textiles, handicrafts, fresh produce, and authentic street food in an atmospheric colonial-era setting.
• Ban Tawai Silk Village — A working silk-weaving community where you can watch artisans create traditional mudmee (ikat) silk and purchase directly from weavers.

Food to try

• Som Tam — Green papaya salad pounded with lime, fish sauce, and chilies, served as a foundational dish throughout Isan and especially vibrant in Ubon's street markets.
• Larb — Spicy minced meat salad (pork, chicken, or duck) mixed with toasted rice powder, fresh herbs, and lime juice, representing Isan's most iconic and addictive dish.
• Sai Oua — Northeastern sausage filled with pork, herbs, and spices, grilled until crispy and served with sticky rice and nam prik chili pastes.
• Khao Liao (Sticky Rice) — Glutinous rice steamed in bamboo baskets, the essential carbohydrate foundation of every Isan meal and eaten by hand as an edible utensil.
• Pa Pao (River Fish) — Fresh Mekong River fish prepared grilled or fried whole, showcasing the region's river bounty and often served with spicy dipping sauces.
• Pad Thai Isan — Ubon's spicier, more adventurous version of pad Thai with extra chilies and local herbs, reflecting northeastern taste preferences over Bangkok's milder style.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect for Royalty — Stand respectfully during the national anthem played twice daily, and never disrespect images of the Thai monarchy as it remains deeply revered throughout Isan.
• Wai Greeting — Greet locals with a wai (hands pressed together at chest) rather than handshakes, with the height of your hands reflecting respect for the person's status.
• Temple Etiquette — Remove shoes before entering temples, dress modestly covering shoulders and knees, and never point feet toward Buddha images which is considered highly disrespectful.
• Lao Language Prevalence — Locals speak Lao dialect more commonly than Thai, so learning basic Lao phrases like 'sabai-sabai' (take it easy) will earn appreciation and enhance interactions.