UBON-001-The first sunrise of Thailand | Travel Thai by Chau Journey

The First Sunrise in Thailand — Pha Taem National Park

Ubon Ratchathani

Tour Type: Eco Tour / Local Tour

Location: Pha Chanadai Cliff, Pha Taem National Park, Ubon Ratchathani Province

What to Expect

Significance: As the easternmost point of Thailand, Pha Taem National Park is the very first place in the country to greet the rising sun each morning.
Experience: Each year, especially on New Year’s Day, travelers and locals alike gather at the Pha Chanadai viewpoint to witness the first light of the year. Many camp overnight, waiting in the cool early-morning air as the golden rays illuminate the Mekong River and the Laotian mountains across the border.

This magical moment marks not only the start of a new day but also a fresh beginning — a perfect symbol of hope and renewal.

Tour Highlights

First sunrise viewpoint at Pha Chanadai Cliff
Prehistoric cliff paintings at Pha Taem
Two-Color River confluence
Wat Sirindhorn Glow Temple
Local culture, handicrafts, and Isaan cuisine
Camping or boutique stay surrounded by nature

4D3N – The First Sunrise of Thailand

Destination: Pha Taem National Park, Ubon Ratchathani
Highlight: Witness Thailand’s earliest sunrise at Pha Chanadai Cliff, explore prehistoric rock paintings, charming Mekong villages, and stunning temples glowing in gold.

Day 1 – Arrival in Ubon Ratchathani

✈️ Arrive in Ubon Ratchathani Airport / Train Station

Meet & greet by Chau Journey local guide.
Visit Wat Nong Bua, one of the most iconic temples of Ubon, inspired by Bodh Gaya in India.
Stop by a local café for welcome drinks and snacks.
Visit Ubon Ratchathani National Museum to learn about Isaan culture and prehistoric history.
Check in at local boutique hotel or riverside resort.
Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant along the Mun River.
Overnight: Ubon Ratchathani City.

Day 2 – Journey to Pha Taem National Park

07:30 AM Breakfast at hotel.
09:00 AM Depart to Khong Chiam District, the easternmost point of Thailand (approx. 2 hours drive).
11:30 AM Visit Wat Tham Khuha Sawan – the “Temple in the Cave” with panoramic views of the Mekong River.
12:30 PM Lunch at a local restaurant by the river.
02:00 PM Explore Two-Color River Viewpoint – where the Mun and Mekong rivers meet.
03:30 PM Arrive at Pha Taem National Park, register and set up camp / check in at nearby resort.
05:00 PM Visit Sao Chaliang Rock Formations, take photos during sunset.
06:30 PM Dinner & relax under the stars at campsite or resort.
Overnight: Pha Taem National Park area.

Day 3 – The First Sunrise of Thailand

04:00 AM Wake up & prepare for sunrise.
04:30 AM Depart by 4WD or local transport to Pha Chanadai Cliff.
05:30 AM Arrive at viewpoint and wait for the first sunrise of Thailand 🌅
06:10 AM (approx.) Experience the golden light rising over the Mekong and Laos mountains — Thailand’s first dawn.
07:00 AM Breakfast picnic at viewpoint.
08:00 AM Visit Pha Taem Cliff Paintings, estimated 3,000 years old — depicting ancient human and animal life.
10:00 AM Return to camp / resort and relax.
12:00 PM Lunch at a local restaurant.
02:00 PM Optional excursion:
- Sam Phan Bok (Grand Canyon of Thailand) — unique rock formations and river channels.
- Local weaving village visit to see traditional Isaan handloom textiles.
05:00 PM Return to resort, free time & leisure.
Evening: Barbecue or local Isaan dinner with music.
Overnight: Pha Taem area.

Day 4 – Cultural Farewell & Return

07:30 AM Breakfast at resort.
08:30 AM Visit Wat Sirindhorn Wararam Phu Prao (Glow Temple) – famous for its glowing tree mural at night (see daytime beauty and view Laos side).
10:30 AM Stop at local coffee shop & souvenir market.
12:00 PM Lunch en route back to Ubon Ratchathani city.
02:30 PM Drop off at Ubon Airport / Train Station for departure.