About Khong Chiam
Khong Chiam lies in the far east of Thailand, in Ubon Ratchathani province, where the Mun flows into the Mekong. The water of the two rivers has different colours, which creates the image of the 'two-coloured river', best seen in the dry season. The town is small and quiet, with views over the Mekong and Laos. A short distance away lies Pha Taem National Park with rock paintings several thousand years old, on a cliff above the river. In the dry season the Sam Phan Bok area, with rock formations in the Mekong, is popular. Wat Tham Khuha Sawan is a cave temple. Khong Chiam suits those seeking remote Isaan and calm river landscapes. Khong Chiam lies roughly 80 km from Ubon Ratchathani; your own transport or a rented scooter is more or less essential to visit the surroundings as well.
Best time to visit (indicative)
Best from November to February: cool and dry. March to May is very hot; June to October is the rainy season, with green rice fields. From February to April there can be haze from burning fields. The two-coloured river and Sam Phan Bok are best seen in the dry season. Weather varies from year to year; this is a guideline based on the climate.
Getting there
From Ubon Ratchathani by songthaew or bus (about 1.5 to 2 hours, roughly 80 km); your own transport helps for Pha Taem. Distances and travel times are rounded estimates.
Things to do in Khong Chiam
- Mun–Mekong confluence The rivers differ in colour, most visible in the dry season.
- Pha Taem National Park A cliff with ancient rock paintings and views over the Mekong.
- Sam Phan Bok Rock formations in the Mekong that emerge in the dry season.
- Wat Tham Khuha Sawan A cave temple near the town.
