Ubon Ratchathani

Ubon Ratchathani is one of the largest cities in Thailand's northeastern Isan region and the capital of Ubon Ratchathani province. Its name means Royal Lotus City, and it sits on the north bank of the Mun River, roughly 615 km from Bangkok, with the riverside district of Warin Chamrap on the opposite bank.

The city was founded in the late 18th century by settlers from Vientiane and still shows strong Laotian influences in its temples, food and festivals. Landmarks include the National Museum, Thung Si Mueang Park and Wat Phra That Nong Bua, whose chedi echoes the Mahabodhi temple at Bodh Gaya.

Central Ubon clusters around Thung Si Mueang and the Mun River, where night markets and riverside restaurants are easy to reach on foot. Warin Chamrap across the river adds markets and a more local pace, while Ubon Ratchathani University and the airport lie on the city's northern side.

The city is best known for the annual Candle Festival in July, when huge carved wax floats parade through the streets to mark the start of Buddhist Lent. As a regional centre for Isan, Ubon also has universities, hospitals and trade links, and its airport connects the city with Bangkok.

For leisure travellers, Ubon offers a relaxed introduction to Isan culture and a base for nearby destinations such as Pha Taem National Park; for business visitors, it serves as a practical gateway to the lower northeast.