Exciting Trip to Chong Bok Emerald Triangle

Exciting Trip to Chong Bok Emerald Triangle in Ubon Ratchathani

When talking about the Golden Triangle, most people think of Chiang Rai. But for me, mr.hotsia, there is another equally interesting travel destination called the “Emerald Triangle” or locally known as “Chong Bok,” located in Ubon Ratchathani. This spot is a border junction connecting Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia, covering about 12 square kilometers. The Thai part is within Phu Chong Nayoi National Park, Na Chaluai District, Ubon Ratchathani Province.

The Emerald Triangle has a different history from the Golden Triangle, which became a tourist and cross-border trade community. This area remains a natural forest with preserved tranquility. It also has a complex history, as between 1985-1987 it was a strategic point during the war between Thailand and Vietnam controlling Cambodia. This made the area heavily guarded by military checkpoints, prohibiting tourists or the general public from entering deep into the border zone.

I have personally visited Chong Bok. My experience was traveling up to the military checkpoint where permission was granted to enter. The journey is not as easy as the Golden Triangle, which has shops and full tourist services. Here, there is a small border market reflecting the local lifestyle. Besides enjoying natural views and the border atmosphere, I had the chance to exchange souvenirs with friendly military officers guarding the area before returning to rest in Nam Yuen District, not far from this point.

The charm of Ubon Ratchathani is not just the Emerald Triangle

Ubon Ratchathani, a major city in southern Isan where I, mr.hotsia, lived for over 5 years, has diverse charms including nature, culture, and food. If you visit here, I recommend experiencing city life by strolling throughSri Muang FieldA place where locals exercise and relax daily, featuring a pond with large Nile tilapia, the city pillar shrine, and beautiful candle replicas at night.

Moreover, traveling to Ubon has become much more convenient with direct flights from Ubon to Phuket operated by Air Asia, an attractive option for those wanting to bypass Bangkok and connect southern Isan with the south seamlessly. For more details, seeUbon-Phuket Flights: Travel from Isan to the South Without Bangkok

Recommended Delicious Food in Ubon by mr.hotsia

When it comes to local Ubon cuisine, I recommend trying the unique soy milk here, mixed with tofu foam and pomelo peel to enhance fragrance and mellow flavor. To find the best soy milk in Ubon, visit the Big Market, where a shop over 50 years old still preserves the original recipe well.The Best Soy Milk in Ubon Provinceis one of the eating experiences I highly recommend not to miss.

Another restaurant I really like is Tee Amnuay Chok, a famous rice porridge shop in Ubon that I have visited since my Air Force days until now. This place still maintains its delicious taste and warm atmosphere. If you come to Ubon and want simple, tasty food with a local vibe, I highly recommend this spot.Tee Amnuay Chok, Ubon’s Number One Rice Porridge Restaurant

Another snack I really enjoy is “Vietnamese Pizza,” a Vietnamese steamed rice cake at the Big Market, Ubon. This unique snack perfectly blends cultures, crispy outside and soft inside, topped with black sesame for extra flavor. I recommend eating it hot for the best taste.Vietnamese Pizza, Big Market, Ubonis another must-visit check-in spot.

Travel and Accommodation in Ubon Ratchathani

For traveling to the Emerald Triangle at Chong Bok, besides preparation and obtaining permission from military checkpoints, staying in Ubon city is very easy and convenient. There are many hotel options near Sri Muang Field and the Big Market area, which is the center of local activities and a hub for local food.

I, mr.hotsia, recommend spending a night or two in Ubon to experience the morning market, Big Market, and the old town atmosphere that still retains the true charm of southern Isan. This greatly enriches the travel experience and also allows easy connection to Pakse, southern Laos.

Summary of the Emerald Triangle Trip with mr.hotsia

The Emerald Triangle or Chong Bok in Ubon Ratchathani is a challenging and intriguing destination because it is not as open as the Golden Triangle in Chiang Rai but has the charm of nature and deep history. Standing at the border connecting three countries makes you truly feel the diversity and complexity of Indochina.

If you love traveling and want to experience something unique, try visiting Chong Bok Emerald Triangle in Ubon Ratchathani. Don’t forget to enjoy delicious local food in Ubon city like soy milk, Vietnamese pizza, and Tee Amnuay Chok rice porridge that I recommended. They will make your trip joyful and unforgettable.