Guide to Visiting Pha Taem National Park, Thailand’s Prehistoric Cliff Paintings
The iconic mushroom rocks of Sao Chaliang inside the Pha Taem National Park
Welcome to Pha Taem National Park in Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand! Where you can gawk at 3,000 year old cliff paintings, admire unusual rock formations, hike along gargantuan sandstone cliffs, bathe in cooling waterfalls, and witness the first sunrise in Thailand! If you’re looking for a guide to visiting Pha Taem National Park then look no further!
In this blog post, I’ll share what to see, things to do, where to stay, where to eat, and a few practical tips to help you plan a relaxed trip without rushing through one of Isaan’s most underrated natural attractions. So, if you’re ready for adventure , let’s get to exploring Pha Taem National Park!
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My YouTube Video on Pha Taem National Park
If you want to see my experiences at Pha Taem National Park as well as eating some delicious Thai food, then check out my YouTube video above! Also if you enjoy the video, I’d really appreciate it if you support my YouTube endeavors by subscribing to my YouTube Channel.
What is Pha Taem National Park?
Welcome to Pha Taem National Park!
Pha Taem National Park sits in the province of Ubon Ratchathani, way out in northeastern Thailand's Isaan region, and right where the country meets Laos along the Mekong River. The landscape is defined by dramatic sandstone cliffs that tower over the river, and dense jungle greenery that expands as far as the eye can see. Furthermore, Pha Taem has earned a reputation as one of the best places in Thailand to catch the sunrise, literally the first sunrise in the country, since this is one of Thailand's easternmost points.
But while that’s all fine and dandy, the most prized landmark of the Pha Taem National Park is that it’s home to prehistoric rock paintings that are 3,000 to 4,000 years old, making it one of Thailand's most significant archaeological sites. These ancient artworks show animals, humans, tools, and glimpses of daily life from thousands of years ago, painted right onto the cliff faces by people who lived here long before Thailand as we know it existed!
Don’t let the picture fool you, these paintings are the size of an adult human!
Beyond the rock art, the park is also home to other landmarks like the oddly shaped Sao Chaliang (Mushroom Rocks), various waterfalls, and hiking trails that I will share with you, further down this blog post.
Pha Taem National Park Entrance Fee
The Pha Taem National Park’s entrance fee is quite expensive for foreigners, definitely pricier compared other national parks in Thailand. You can expect to pay:
Adults (Foreigner): 400 THB per adult
Child (Foreigner): 200 THB per child
Thai Local: 40 THB
Long time readers of Feastography will know my stance on foreigner pricing, I don’t agree with it, especially if the disparity is this large. But for Pha Taem National Park I’ll make an exception.
If you’re planning to spend your whole day exploring Pha Taem National Park, that 400 THB feels like a fair trade as you’re getting access to ancient 3,000 year old rock paintings, stunning Mekong River views, a substantial 4km long hiking trail, access to multiple waterfalls, some weird looking rocks, and a chance to catch the earliest sunrise in Thailand.
Just make sure to bring cash, as card payments aren't always reliable at park entrances out here in Isaan.
How to Get to Pha Taem National Park
Pha Taem National Park is 100km away from Ubon Ratchathani, the capital city of this province
I’ll assume you’re starting from the city of Ubon Ratchathani (yes, same name as the province). Ok… The reality is, it’s really hard to get to Pha Taem National Park unless you got a private vehicle, I traveled with my family and we hired a private van to take us places…
Pha Taem National Park is located about 100km from Ubon Ratchathani City and the only realistic way to get there is by some sort of car or van. Don’t even think about getting a taxi… I doubt you’ll find someone who’d want to take you there AND back.
Here are your options for getting to Pha Taem National Park:
Getting to Pha Taem National Park via Personal Car (Recommended)
The best way to get to Pha Taem National Park is definitely by personal car which works out to roughly 2.5 hours of driving. Not to mention that a personal car would also allow you the freedom to stop at any places along the way.
From Ubon Ratchathani, you'll head east toward Khong Chiam District and follow the signs for Pha Taem National Park. The roads are pretty straightforward and well-marked once you get out of the city. I highly recommend having your own car because the park itself is huge and the points of interests are really spread out. Luckily there are services where you can rent a private car in Ubon Ratchathani.
Also it’s great to rent a private car too because aside from Pha Taem there are so many things to do in Ubon, check out my blog post of Top 10 Things to Do in Ubon Ratchathani if you’d like to explore this beautiful province further.
Exploring Pha Taem National Park
Map of Pha Taem National Park by http://www.norththailandbirding.com/
Pha Taem National Park is massive. Covering an area of about 340km² (212,500 rai) this protected land stretches along the north eastern Thai regions bordering the Mekong river. That sounds intimidating but don’t worry, the main attractions are centrally located in relatively accessible areas. Some noteworthy points of interests and activities are:
Prehistoric Rock Paintings - Walk along the cliffside trail to see ancient red ochre paintings depicting animals, humans, and daily life from around 3,000-4,000 years ago.
Pha Chana Dai Viewpoint - Visit one of Thailand’s easternmost points, famous for being among the first places in the country to see the sunrise.
Sao Chaliang - Explore naturally eroded sandstone pillars, including the well-known twin pillars shaped by wind and rain over thousands of years.
Soi Sawan and Saeng Chan Waterfall - A small but scenic waterfall located within the park, best visited during or after the rainy season when water flow is strongest.
Nature and Hiking Trails - Walk short, easy trails through forested areas and open sandstone terrain, suitable for casual hikers.
Wildlife and Bird Watching - Look out for birds, insects, and small animals that inhabit the forest and cliff areas, especially in quieter sections of the park.
These sandstone cliffs are towering…
As for how long to spend at Pha Taem National Park, I'd recommend setting aside at least half a day, though a full day is ideal if you want to really soak it all in. If you're coming for sunrise (which you absolutely should), plan to arrive before dawn and then spend the morning exploring the rock paintings, and walking the cliff trails.
The beauty of this park is that it’s far away from any major tourist hubs, that means it’s not too crowded. Though sometimes you do get the occasional groups of kids on their school field trips, I happen to encounter them when I went.
That’s not to say the park is devoid of any tourists, I did see a group of foreigners enjoying the cliff art. So it’s quite but not too quite that you feel lonely.
Things to do at Pha Taem National Park
No railings at the viewpoint, don’t be too reckless here…
Remember to plan your route accordingly and bring some nice shoes, a portable fan/ umbrella, and some water as the sun is really hot. Right, there are plenty of things to do in Pha Taem National Park so let’s get exploring!
Pha Taem National Park Cliff Viewpoint
I cannot see my house from here!
Along the way to the main highlight of the 3,000 year old prehistoric cliff paintings, you’ll come across the Pha Taem viewpoint.
And this viewpoint is absolutely gorgeous! The Pha Taem cliff viewpoint will give you breathtaking vistas across the Mekong River and into Laos. You'll see grass plains, lush forests, and the flowing river as far as the eye can see thanks to the viewpoint being at an elevation of about 200 meters above sea level.
This is also the place where you can catch the first sunrise in Thailand, yep, it’s the most eastern viewpoint of the country.
However you got to be a bit careful as there are no railings to stop you from fall off the cliff…
Pha Taem National Park Prehistoric Cliff Paintings
The paintings are a bit faded but it’s still there!
Ok, now we’ve come to the main highlight, and the main reason for visiting Pha Taem National Park, and that is the prehistoric cliff paintings. These ancient artworks are estimated to be 3,000 to 4,000 years old, dating back to the late prehistoric period, making them some of the oldest and most important rock paintings in Thailand.
They were created using natural red ochre pigments painted directly onto the gargantuan sandstone cliff walls, and what's incredible is how well-preserved many of them still are after all these millennia. The paintings depict humans, animals like fish and buffalo, tools, weird wavy lines (flooding maybe?), and scenes from daily life, giving us a glimpse into the early agricultural and river-based communities that lived along the Mekong thousands of years ago.
And the Pha Taem cliff paintings are HUGE! I thought they’d be the size of my hand but no some of them are the size of a entire adult human!
Why do the humanoids have triangular heads…?
The rock paintings are spread out along a long cliff line rather than all bunched together in one spot, so you'll need to walk along the trail to see them all. There are four main painting sites in total, each located beneath overhanging cliffs. As you walk from site to site, you'll see different scenes and figures.
The paintings are admittedly very faded, some clearer than others, though you still can tell the outlines on the rock, and if you take photos with your phone, the phone’s saturation will automatically enhance the contrast of the images.
It’s fun to speculate what these Pha Taem paintings mean, because archeologists don’t really know… I think they might be depictions of successful hunts or maybe a food rationing system because on some paintings of animals there are large lines splitting the animals, almost like it’s to divide the animal up between tribal families…?
Pictures do not capture the scale of these sandstone cliffs well…
There's also some local folklore surrounding the Pha Taem area that adds an eerie layer to the experience. According to ancient stories, the cliffs and forests is haunted by a mountain spirit, and people who enter or disturb the sacred sites will have bad luck. Whether you believe in that or not, it does make you approach the paintings with a bit more reverence.
Especially when some of the humanoid paintings look very eerie with their upside down triangular heads and thin lanky bodies…
Pha Taem National Park Hiking Trail
3.4km, sounds long but it’s actually a really brisk and chill walk
I’ve mentioned briefly above that there is a trail along the cliff paintings, that’s the main hiking trail at Pha Taem National Park. The hiking trail runs along the base of the cliff, parallel to the Mekong River, and the total distance is roughly 3-4km depending on which sections you walk, but don't let that intimidate you though, the trail is mostly flat and well-maintained, so if you’re a casual hiker then it’s perfect.
The hiking trail is marked with various signs pointing you along the way and as you follow the Pha Taem National Park trail, you'll pass by all the major painting sites, several viewpoints, and interesting rock formations that make great photo opportunities.
The trail is really straightforward and well-organized. It’s impossible to get lost.
Much of the trail is this smooth well kept walking path
What makes this hiking trail so special is the continuous view of the Mekong River below and Laos stretching out across the border. You're basically hiking along the edge of Thailand with another country right there in front of you.
I'd strongly recommend walking the trail in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat, the midday sun and the still air out here in Isaan can be brutal, especially with limited shade along the cliff path. Morning is particularly beautiful because the light is softer and you might catch some mist rising off the Mekong.
The whole trail takes about 2 hours at a relaxed pace, giving you plenty of time to stop, read the information boards at each painting site, take photos, and just enjoy being out in nature. Remember to Bring water, and wear comfortable shoes, maybe a portable fan too.
Sao Chaliang (Mushroom Rocks)
Do these look like mushrooms? Maybe.
Located in the western section of the Pha Taem National Park, are the most famous rocks formations in the area, and the poster child of the park (aside from the cliff paintings). The twin Sao Chaliang pillars, or Mushroom Rocks, are cool natural rock formations made from sandstone that have been shaped over thousands of years by wind and rain erosion, creating these distinctive mushroom-like structures.
The science behind it is pretty simple, the harder rock layers on top erode more slowly than the softer sandstone below. If you're already spending time at the Pha Taem National Park, definitely swing by Sao Chaliang. It won't take long, and it’s fun to see some weird looking rocks. Pairs well with the weird looking paintings.
Pha Taem National Park Waterfalls
Some nice water flowing out of that hole in the ceiling there at the Saeng Chan waterfall
Most waterfalls around Pha Taem National Park flow best between June and October which is around the rainy season in Thailand and the Mekong region. You have to set your expectations though, the waterfalls at Pha Taem National Park are small, they’re not the kind of waterfalls you travel across the country just to see, but they’re a great change of pace from the cliffs and rock formations the park is known for.
When I visited, these spots are quiet and quite relaxing, especially after walking exposed trails under the sun. They’re easy to reach, rarely crowded, and perfect for a short stop to cool down, yes you can swim in some of them.
Some nice flowing water at these cascading rocks at Soi Sawan waterfall
Here are some waterfalls in and around Pha Taem National Park worth checking out:
Saeng Chan Waterfall - Famous for its unique feature where water flows through a natural eroded hole in the rock, creating a curtain-like effect. It’s especially impressive after heavy rain and is one of the more photogenic waterfalls near Pha Taem National Park.
Soi Sawan Waterfall - A wider, multi-level waterfall that becomes lively during the wet season. It’s set in a forested area and feels more natural and secluded compared to the cliffside attractions.
Hotels Near Pha Taem National Park
Staying near Pha Taem National Park is something I genuinely recommend, especially for camping trips or an overnight getaway from civilization.
There are unfortunately no proper hotels or resorts within the vicinity of the park itself, I did find one called PK Riverside Resort but they seem to be unreachable, no links to hotel booking sites, their own website doesn’t even work… However, there are lots of camping sites available if you don’t mind setting up your own tents.
What I do recommend is you stay near Khong Chiam, a town within the Ubon Ratchathani province that is nearest to the Pha Taem National Park (about a 30 minute drive, 22km), and right on the border and the Mekong river delta with Laos. Plus staying overnight by a riverside resort is just so nice.
Who wouldn’t wanna stay at this chill riverside resort (Orchid Riverside Resort)?
Here are my recommendations for hotels in Khong Chiam:
Tohsang Heritage Khongjiam - A scenic riverside hotel set on the Mekong River with stylish rooms and villas that blend Thai, Khmer, and Balinese design, plus outdoor pools, spa services, kayaking and bike rentals, and a cafe/restaurant with river views.
Khong Chiam Orchid Riverside Resort - Comfortable resort with river views, free Wi-Fi, an outdoor pool, on-site restaurant and bar, and easy access to local attractions.
Baan Kieng Tawan - A friendly guesthouse-style hotel with air-conditioned rooms, free parking and Wi-Fi, breakfast included, and a garden terrace.
Where to Eat Near Pha Taem National Park
Horm Din has some real nice food
When you’re exploring Pha Taem National Park, you’ll eventually get hungry or just want a proper break with good food and drinks, especially because the park area is remote and there aren’t many roadside stalls for street food.
But never fear, there is a proper restaurant and cafe nearby. Memory Cafe is a proper third wave riverside cafe that has a relaxed vibe and great views of the Mekong River, they even have coffee beans you can buy! The cafe is minimalist, trendy, and there are plenty of specialty Instagram-able drinks, cakes, and pastries for sale. All of this is much appreciated after a long hike at Pha Taem National Park.
For a more substantial place to eat near Pha Taem National Park, I recommend Horm Din. A Thai restuarant located literally right next to the Memory Cafe. This laid-back riverside restaurant serves up Thai dishes and local flavors, I recommend the deep fried Larb balls, crispy, meaty, spicy, and packed full of flavor.
Tips for Visiting Pha Taem National Park
A nice helpful map at the beginning of the Pha Taem cliff hiking trail
Exploring Pha Taem National Park is a really rewarding experience, but a bit of planning goes a long way. The park is large, remote, and spread out, so it’s not the kind of place you want to rush through. Here are a few tips for exploring Pha Taem National Park:
Visit Early or Late - Mornings and late afternoons are cooler and give you the best light for viewpoints and photos.
Stay Overnight Nearby - Pha Taem National Park is far from the city, so an overnight stay makes the experience much more relaxed.
Bring Water and Snacks - Facilities inside the park are limited, and walking the trails can be tiring in the heat.
Wear Proper Shoes - Sandstone trails can be uneven or slippery, especially after rain.
Time Your Visit for Waterfalls - Visit during the rainy season (around June to October) to see waterfalls flowing properly.
Use Your Own Transport - Attractions inside Pha Taem National Park are spread out and not walk-able without a car or motorbike.
Carry Cash - Entrance fees and small local places nearby often don’t accept cards.
Check the Weather - Heavy rain can affect trail conditions and visibility at viewpoints.
Respect the Rock Paintings - Stay on marked paths and don’t touch the cliff paintings or mess with nature by building those stacked rock things to help preserve them.
Details About Pha Taem National Park
Be very careful not to fall off here…
Pha Taem National Park is a scenic national park located in Ubon Ratchathani, northeastern Thailand, best known for its dramatic sandstone cliffs overlooking the Mekong River and its ancient 3,000 year old prehistoric rock paintings. Sitting along the Thai-Lao border, the park is famous as one of the easternmost points in Thailand, where visitors can witness some of the country’s first sunrises, unique rock formations like the Sao Chaliang mushroom rocks, seasonal waterfalls, and go onpeaceful hiking trails.
Location: Huai Phai, Khong Chiam District, Ubon Ratchathani 34220
Opening Hours: 5:00 AM - 6:00 PM | Mon - Sun
Entrance Fee: 400 THB per adult, 200 THB per child, 40 THB per local
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