Ancient murals depicting scenes from Buddhist Jataka tales cover the walls of Wat Burapha Phiram, making this temple one of Ubon Ratchathani’s most artistically significant religious sites. The temple’s name translates to “Eastern Sacred Temple,” reflecting its importance in the region’s spiritual landscape. Built in traditional Isan architectural style, the temple showcases the distinctive northeastern Thai approach to Buddhist design, with its characteristic slanted rooflines and intricate wooden carvings that tell stories of the Buddha’s previous lives.
Step inside the ordination hall to discover the temple’s crown jewel – elaborate wall paintings that span floor to ceiling, rendered in rich reds, golds, and earth tones. These murals illustrate moral teachings through vivid storytelling, featuring celestial beings, royal courts, and everyday village life from centuries past. The principal Buddha image sits serenely at the altar, surrounded by offerings of lotus flowers and incense that fill the air with their sweet fragrance. Monks in saffron robes often conduct evening chanting sessions, their rhythmic prayers echoing through the halls. The temple grounds also house several smaller stupas and a meditation pavilion where visitors can observe daily monastic routines.
Tranquility permeates every corner of this active monastery, where the gentle sounds of temple bells and rustling bodhi leaves create a naturally meditative environment. Local devotees come throughout the day to make merit, lighting candles and placing flower garlands before Buddha images. The respectful quiet broken only by soft prayers and the occasional monk passing by creates an atmosphere conducive to reflection and spiritual contemplation, making it easy to spend an hour or more simply absorbing the peaceful energy.
Early morning visits between 6-8 AM offer the chance to witness monks collecting alms and performing morning rituals, while late afternoon around 5 PM brings beautiful golden light streaming through the temple windows. Dress modestly with covered shoulders and knees, and remember to remove shoes before entering any buildings. The temple sits easily accessible along Phadung Phanit Road, reachable by tuk-tuk or songthaew from Ubon’s city center. Photography is generally permitted in outdoor areas, but ask permission before photographing monks or entering restricted spaces.
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