| Ubon Ratchathani has been a well established
community for hundreds of years. Relatively unknown to most tourists, the province
boasts a number of natural wonders, cultural and historical attractions, national
parks, and silk producing shops. Its Buddhist tradition is evident throughout
the region, particularly the practice of forest-dwelling monks and the ancient
Buddhist temples
The province is unique in its folk culture, which is expressed in indigenous
cuisine, handicrafts, such as silk and cotton products, basketry, and bronze-ware,
and traditional events such as the Candle festival held every July. There
are many beautiful and historical sites to behold, including a 4,000 years
old rock formation, prehistoric rock paintings, national parks, waterfalls,
and the two-colored river. Additionally, there are 50 national preserved
forests, 3 national parks, 2 botanical gardens, 1 wild life preservation
area and 1 botanical park.
Since the 10th century, Ubon Ratchathani, or simply Ubon, was part of the
Khmer Empire until the Kingdom of Ayutthaya conquered it. Towards the end of
the 18th century, Laotians immigrated to the northern banks of the Mun River
and founded the provincial capital. The Laotian influence is evident in the
architectural structure of some of the city's religious buildings.
Today, the province is the largest and one of the most important provinces
in northeastern Thailand. Due to the large number of fascinating temples dotting
the city, Ubon is a place of pilgrimage in the beginning of Buddhist Lent.
Aside from the numerous attractions, festivals and holidays are celebrated
with a unique Ubon flair. |
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