A Bodh Gaya copy
A white and gilded stupa.
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Ubon Ratchathani's best-known temple, built in 1957 to mark 2,500 years of Buddhism as a copy of the Mahabodhi temple at Bodh Gaya in India, where the Buddha attained enlightenment. A square white and gilded stupa rises about fifty metres, narrowing towards a golden spire, ringed by smaller stupas in the same style. The outer walls of the stupa carry reliefs of scenes from the Buddha's life and mythical creatures, with gold decoration that shines in the sun, best photographed in the morning or just before sunset. Inside, a hall holds a Buddha image among tall gilded columns, and the temple is also known for its great candle procession at Ubon's Candle Festival in July. Entry is free and donations are welcome. Modest dress is expected: shoulders and knees covered, and shoes off inside the halls. Isan is very hot from March to May, so the cool season from November to February suits a visit best. It is in town, a quarter of an hour from the centre; Ubon is an hour's flight from Bangkok and a good base for trips to the Mekong and Pha Taem.
A white and gilded stupa.
The Buddha's life on the walls.
In July.
Thanaphatsadu Road, north-west of Ubon Ratchathani town
It was built as a copy of the Mahabodhi temple at Bodh Gaya, where the Buddha attained enlightenment, to mark 2,500 years of Buddhism.