Ubolratana Dam - Image 1
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Ubolratana Dam

4.6
·491k reviews·Tambon Khuean Ubolratana, Thailand

A scenic hydroelectric dam in Khon Kaen, named after Princess Ubol Ratana, offering beautiful reservoir views and recreational activities.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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Ubolratana Dam - Image 1

Ubolratana Dam

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A scenic hydroelectric dam in Khon Kaen, named after Princess Ubol Ratana, offering beautiful reservoir views and recreational activities.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"It's so beautiful, with such a wonderful atmosphere."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Sunset

The dam offers stunning sunset views over the reservoir. Perfect for photographers!

⛳ Golf with a View

Play a round at the Ubolratana Dam Golf Course for a unique golfing experience with scenic backdrops.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Dam Itself

The Dam Itself

Main structure

Admire the impressive hydroelectric dam, a significant landmark named after Princess Ubol Ratana. Enjoy the expansive reservoir views.

Ubolratana Dam Golf Course

Ubolratana Dam Golf Course

Adjacent to the dam

A challenging yet enjoyable golf course offering stunning views of the dam and reservoir. A must-visit for golf enthusiasts.

Scenic Reservoir Views

Scenic Reservoir Views

Various viewpoints around the dam

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the vast Ubolratana Reservoir, especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Ubolratana Dam

Ubolratana Dam offers a serene escape, but timing is key to enjoying its beauty. Weekends can get busy with local families, so consider weekdays for a more tranquil experience. Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best light for photos and a cooler atmosphere.

Activities Around Ubolratana Dam

Beyond the dam itself, explore the surrounding natural beauty. The area is known for its golf course and offers opportunities for cycling and enjoying cafes with scenic views. Plan your visit to include these diverse activities for a well-rounded trip.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends, evenings
Why
Local families, vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

VLOG EP.0 | One day trip to Ubolratana dam : หญิงนุชที่ไม่มีเทมส์ มีความความสุขมากมั้ย 🥹✨ Editor : @warnnn.nxm Starring : @warnnn.nxm @ekakkharin @_zzakura @pp_iiws @lovelymint_nt
ekakkharin
0 likes • 3.2K views

📸 Capture the Sunset

The dam offers stunning sunset views over the reservoir. Perfect for photographers! Instagram

⛳ Golf with a View

Play a round at the Ubolratana Dam Golf Course for a unique golfing experience with scenic backdrops. Instagram

Week 1 of 2 done ✅ Thank you Thai LPGA! Finished T29 (80-73-75) Thank you Ubolratana Dam Golf Course for hosting!! Very tough course but enjoyed every bit of it! 😊🙏🏾
monsalvemarvi
26.2K likes • 806.1K views
My first time visiting here, Ubolratana Dam in Khon Kaen Province. It’s so beautiful, with such a wonderful atmosphere.
captain_jack1983
0 likes • 1K views

🚴‍♀️ Cycle the Dam

Enjoy cycling around the dam area, especially in the cooler mornings. Instagram

☕ Relax at a Cafe

Several cafes offer great views of the dam and reservoir, perfect for a relaxing break. Instagram

UBOLRATANA DAM *****Khon Kaen.*****
opor_1144
71 likes • 563 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Sunset

The dam offers stunning sunset views over the reservoir. Perfect for photographers! Instagram

⛳ Golf with a View

Play a round at the Ubolratana Dam Golf Course for a unique golfing experience with scenic backdrops. Instagram

🚴‍♀️ Cycle the Dam

Enjoy cycling around the dam area, especially in the cooler mornings. Instagram

☕ Relax at a Cafe

Several cafes offer great views of the dam and reservoir, perfect for a relaxing break. Instagram

🧘‍♀️ Yoga on the Dam

Experience a unique yoga session with fresh air and energy right on the dam. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Ubolratana Dam for its beautiful scenery and tranquil atmosphere, making it a popular spot for day trips and relaxation. The golf course is a notable attraction for enthusiasts. Some find the area can get crowded on weekends, and dining options are primarily limited to cafes and local restaurants.

What People Like

Beautiful reservoir views
Peaceful atmosphere
Ubolratana Dam Golf Course

What People Dislike

Weekend crowds
Limited dining variety

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ubolratana Dam is approximately 40-50 kilometers north of Khon Kaen city. You can hire a taxi or rent a car for a convenient journey. Local buses also run to the area, though they may be less frequent. TikTok

While accessible by local buses, it's recommended to have your own transport or hire a taxi for more flexibility in exploring the dam and its surroundings. TikTok

For a day trip from Khon Kaen, renting a car or hiring a taxi offers the most freedom to explore at your own pace and visit nearby attractions. TikTok

As you approach, you'll see signs for the dam. The large reservoir will become visible, guiding you to the main structure. Instagram

The drive typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions and your starting point in Khon Kaen. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, there is no admission fee to visit the main area of Ubolratana Dam and enjoy the views. However, specific attractions within the complex, like the golf course, will have their own fees. Instagram

The dam area is typically open to visitors throughout the day and into the evening, allowing for both daytime sightseeing and sunset viewing. Instagram

Yes, the Ubolratana Dam Golf Course operates with green fees and other charges for players. It's advisable to check their official website or contact them for current pricing. Instagram

Ubolratana Dam is usually open on public holidays. However, expect larger crowds as it's a popular spot for local families and tourists. Instagram

Parking is generally available and often free in the main visitor areas of Ubolratana Dam. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy scenic views, take photos, visit cafes, cycle around the area, and for golf enthusiasts, play at the Ubolratana Dam Golf Course. Some visitors also enjoy yoga sessions. Instagram+3

Absolutely! The dam, the reservoir, and the surrounding landscape offer numerous picturesque spots, especially during sunrise and sunset. Instagram+1

Yes, it's a popular destination for local families, offering a pleasant environment for picnics and enjoying the outdoors. TikTok

Visitors often describe the atmosphere as beautiful and wonderful, with fresh air and a sense of tranquility, especially during quieter times. Instagram+1

Swimming directly in the reservoir is generally not recommended due to safety and operational reasons of the dam. Stick to designated recreational areas if available. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are several cafes and restaurants located around the dam area, offering local Thai cuisine and refreshments with scenic views. Instagram

You'll find a variety of local Thai dishes, snacks, and beverages. Many cafes offer a relaxed dining experience overlooking the water. Instagram

The dam area is a popular spot for local families to have picnics, so bringing your own food and enjoying the scenery is a great option. TikTok

While specific menus vary, most Thai restaurants can accommodate vegetarian requests. It's always best to ask the staff. Instagram

Most cafes and restaurants operate during daylight hours and into the early evening, aligning with visitor traffic. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The dam structure itself, the expansive reservoir, and the viewpoints offering panoramic vistas are prime photography locations. Don't miss the sunset! Instagram+1

Early mornings and late afternoons, especially during the 'golden hour,' provide the most flattering light for landscape and portrait photography. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the dam administration before flying a drone to ensure compliance. TikTok

While the dam is a modern structure, capturing its scale and engineering against the natural landscape tells its own story. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the reservoir and dam. A telephoto lens can be useful for details or distant shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ubolratana Dam is a fantastic spot for a family day out. The open spaces around the dam are great for kids to run around, and the scenic views provide a pleasant backdrop for a picnic. Many local families visit, making it a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. TikTok Consider visiting one of the cafes with outdoor seating where children can enjoy snacks while taking in the sights. The dam's impressive structure can also spark curiosity and conversation about engineering and nature with younger visitors. Instagram

While there aren't specific playgrounds, the natural environment offers plenty of opportunities for exploration. Pack some snacks and drinks, as dining options might be limited to cafes and restaurants. Weekdays are generally less crowded, which can be more manageable with young children. TikTok

⛳ Golfers

For golf enthusiasts, the Ubolratana Dam Golf Course is a significant draw. This course offers a unique playing experience, set against the backdrop of the dam and its expansive reservoir. Reviews suggest it's a challenging course, but the scenic beauty makes it a rewarding visit. Instagram It's advisable to book tee times in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak season or on weekends. Instagram

Beyond the game itself, the golf course provides excellent vantage points for photography and enjoying the natural surroundings. It's a perfect addition to a trip focused on the Ubolratana Dam area, offering a different way to appreciate the landscape. Instagram

📸 Photographers

Ubolratana Dam is a photographer's delight, offering a range of stunning visual opportunities. The dam structure itself, with its imposing concrete form, provides a strong architectural subject. The real magic, however, lies in the Ubolratana Reservoir, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Instagram+1 The expansive water body, often reflecting the sky, creates dramatic and serene scenes. Instagram

Look for elevated viewpoints around the dam to capture panoramic shots of the reservoir stretching into the distance. The surrounding hills and vegetation add depth and color to your compositions. Don't forget to explore the cafes that offer elevated perspectives, providing unique angles for your shots. Instagram Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness and a telephoto lens for details or distant landscapes. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Engineering Marvel: Ubolratana Dam

Completed in 1966, the Ubolratana Dam is a significant concrete gravity dam situated on the Nam Phong River in Khon Kaen Province, Thailand. It was named in honor of Princess Ubol Ratana, the elder sister of the current King of Thailand. The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, playing a crucial role in the region's energy supply. It also serves vital functions in irrigation for agriculture and flood control, contributing to the economic stability of the surrounding communities. The sheer scale of the dam is impressive, a testament to engineering prowess from its era. TikTok

Beyond its functional importance, the Ubolratana Dam has become a popular recreational area. The vast reservoir it creates offers scenic beauty and opportunities for leisure activities. Visitors often marvel at the impressive structure and the expansive water body stretching out before them. The dam's presence has also spurred the development of local businesses, including cafes and restaurants that cater to tourists and locals alike, enhancing the visitor experience. Instagram+1

When visiting, take a moment to appreciate the engineering behind this landmark. Understanding its purpose and history adds another layer to the experience. While the dam itself is the main attraction, the surrounding landscape and the reservoir's tranquility are equally captivating. It’s a place where infrastructure meets natural beauty, creating a unique destination in Khon Kaen. TikTok

Beyond the Dam: Activities and Recreation

While the Ubolratana Dam is the central feature, the area offers a surprising variety of activities for different interests. For golf enthusiasts, the Ubolratana Dam Golf Course provides a challenging round with picturesque views of the reservoir, making it a unique golfing destination. Instagram The scenic beauty also lends itself to outdoor pursuits like cycling, with many visitors enjoying rides around the dam and its environs, especially during the cooler parts of the day. Instagram

For those seeking relaxation and a different perspective, several cafes have sprung up around the dam, offering not just refreshments but also stunning vistas of the water. These spots are perfect for unwinding, enjoying a meal, or simply soaking in the atmosphere. Instagram Some visitors have even embraced unique wellness activities, such as yoga on the dam, capitalizing on the fresh air and serene environment for a rejuvenating experience. Instagram

These diverse recreational options transform a visit to the Ubolratana Dam from a simple sightseeing trip into a well-rounded excursion. Whether you're an avid golfer, a nature lover, a foodie, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, the area around the dam has something to offer. Planning to incorporate these activities can significantly enhance your visit. Instagram+3

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