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Prasat Ban Ben

An ancient Khmer prasart ruin in rural Ubon Ratchathani, open daily for cultural exploration.

4.4(118)
Directions

Plan your visit

Hours
Daily 08:30–16:30

Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.

Details

Full opening hours
Monday08:30–16:30
Tuesday08:30–16:30
Wednesday08:30–16:30
Thursday08:30–16:30
Friday08:30–16:30
Saturday08:30–16:30
Sunday08:30–16:30

Why go, and how to do it well

Prasat Ban Ben is a Khmer-era prasart (temple ruin) located in the Thung Si Udom District of Ubon Ratchathani province, representing the historical reach of the ancient Khmer civilization into what is now northeastern Thailand. Sites like this offer a rare opportunity to encounter pre-Angkorian or Angkorian-period stonework in a quiet, largely undisturbed rural setting, away from the more commercialized heritage sites found elsewhere in the region.

Visitors can expect a modest but atmospheric site with traditional Khmer sandstone or laterite structures characteristic of this part of Isan. The surrounding landscape is typical of the northeastern Thai countryside, lending the site a peaceful and contemplative quality. Given its location in a small village area, the experience tends to be unhurried, making it well suited to those with a genuine interest in Khmer history and archaeology rather than those seeking a polished tourist facility.

Prasat Ban Ben is open every day of the week from 08:30 to 16:30, so visiting during morning hours is recommended to avoid midday heat, which can be intense in this region. As with all sacred and heritage sites in Thailand, visitors should dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees out of respect. No website is available, so it is advisable to confirm access locally before making a dedicated trip, particularly for those traveling from Ubon Ratchathani city. This site is best suited to independent travelers or history enthusiasts exploring the lesser-known Khmer heritage trail of the Isan region.

Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Sep 2026

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Tours that include Prasat Ban Ben

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QWQH+3MF, Nong Om, Thung Si Udom District, Ubon Ratchathani 34160, Thailand

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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture

Mind Your Feet

Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.

Ask Before Photographing

Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.

Go Early Morning

Big-name temples are dramatically less crowded in the first hour after opening. You'll also avoid the worst of the midday heat and get softer light for photos.

Prasat Ban Ben: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Prasat Ban Ben worth visiting?

Prasat Ban Ben holds a 4.4★ rating from 118 Google reviews — a strong rating for temples & culture in Ubon Ratchathani.

What are the opening hours of Prasat Ban Ben?

Prasat Ban Ben is typically open 08:30–16:30 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.

When is the best time to visit Prasat Ban Ben?

The best months to visit Ubon Ratchathani are November – February (plus July for the Candle Festival), with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in Candle Festival (July, Khao Phansa) — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: April (peak heat).

Where is Prasat Ban Ben located?

Prasat Ban Ben is at QWQH+3MF, Nong Om, Thung Si Udom District, Ubon Ratchathani 34160, Thailand, in Ubon Ratchathani. Getting around Ubon Ratchathani: Grab and songthaews in the city; Rental car or driver for the Mekong loop (Khong Chiam, ~75 km east).

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