Wat Sirindhorn Wararam Phu Phrao or Wat Phu Phrao , also known as the Glowing Temple, is a beautiful and unique temple located in Sirindhorn District, Ubon Ratchathani Province, Thailand. The temple is located on a high hill, and behind the chapel, you can see the Mekong River, as well as the Laos side. It is also a great place to watch the sunset.
Highlights of Wat Phu Phrao
The Glowing Tree of Life: One of the most attractive features of this temple is the glowing Kalpavriksha Tree, also known as the Tree of Life, located behind the chapel. This artwork was created by craftsman Kunakorn Parinya Punno using a luminescent material that absorbs sunlight during the day and emits a beautiful green glow at night. The design was inspired by the Tree of Life from the movie Avatar.
Architecture: The architecture of this temple is inspired by Wat Chiang khong in Laos, but on a larger scale. The chapel is an intricately crafted work, with lotus and animal motifs decorating the pillars. The craftsmanship reflects the calmness, perseverance, patience, and vision of the craftsman.
Visiting Information
Location: Wat Sirindhorn Wararam Phu Phrao is located in Tambon Chong Mek, Amphoe Sirindhorn, Ubon Ratchathani Province (approximately 70 kilometers from Ubon Ratchathani city center).
Entrance fee: Free
Facilities: The temple has parking, toilets, tourist assistance center, souvenir shop, and facilities for disabled people.
Traveling from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani and Wat Phu Phrao
How to get to from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani and then to Wat Phu Phrao can be done in several ways:
- By Airplane
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way. Several airlines offer direct flights from Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang Airport to Ubon Ratchathani International Airport. The flight takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Once you arrive at Ubon Ratchathani Airport, you can rent a car or take a taxi to Wat Phu Phrao, which is about 70 kilometers away and takes approximately 1.5 hours to reach. - By Train
Traveling by train is another interesting option. You can take a train from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station (Bang Sue Grand Station) to Ubon Ratchathani Railway Station. There are several types of trains available, such as express, rapid, and ordinary trains, taking about 8-12 hours depending on the type of train. Once you arrive at Ubon Ratchathani Railway Station, you can take a bus or taxi to Wat Phu Phrao. - By Bus
Traveling by bus is a cost-effective and convenient option. You can take a bus from Mo Chit Bus Terminal to Ubon Ratchathani Bus Terminal. Several bus companies operate on this route, such as Transport Co., Nakhonchai Air, and Sombat Tour. The journey takes about 10-12 hours. Once you arrive at Ubon Ratchathani Bus Terminal, you can take a songthaew (local shared taxi) or a regular taxi to Wat Phu Phrao. - By Private Car
Traveling by private car offers flexibility and convenience. You can drive from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani by taking Highway 1 (Phahonyothin Road) and then Highway 2 (Mittraphap Road), covering a distance of about 600 kilometers and taking about 8-10 hours. Once you reach Ubon Ratchathani, continue driving to Wat Phu Phrao by taking Highway 217 (Ubon Ratchathani-Sirinthorn Road) and then turning left onto Highway 2173. Drive for another 3 kilometers, and Wat Phu Phrao will be on your right.
