Since the 10th century,
Ubon Ratchathani, or simply Ubon,
was part of the Khmer Empire until the
Ayutthaya Kingdom later 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 structures of some of the
city’s religious buildings. During
the Vietnam War, Ubon encountered an expansive
growth due to its proximity to an American
air base.
Today, the province is the largest and one
of the most important provinces in northeastern
Thailand. It is a major tourist attraction of
the lower I-San located 629 kilometres from
Bangkok. Due to the large number of fascinating
temples dotting the city, Ubon is a place of
pilgrimage at the beginning of Buddhist Lent.
Aside from the numerous attraction sites, festivals
and holidays are celebrated with a unique Ubon
flair. The province borders the Mekong River
in the east and features superb scenic view
of Cambodia.
The province covers 15,517 square kilometres
and is divided into the following districts:
Muang, Warin Chamrap, Det Udom, Buntharik, Na
Chaluai, Nam Yuen, Phibun Mangsahan, Khong Chiam,
Si Muang Mai, Trakan Phuet Phon, Khemarat, Mung
Sam Sip, Khueang Nai, Kut Khaopun, Tan Sum,
Pho Sai, Samrong, Sirindhorn, Don Mot Daeng,
Thung Si Udom, Na Yia, Na Tan, Lao Suea Kok,
Sawang Wirawong and Nam Khun.
