Wat Sri Ubon Rattanaram, or Wat Srithong, located in Ubon Ratchathani Province, is a Dhammayut Buddhist temple established in 1855 during the reign of King Rama IV. It celebrated its 150th anniversary recently. The temple was originally built on land donated by Phra Uppahat Tho, an Ubon nobleman devoted to Buddhism, who donated approximately 30 rai of land. The first abbot was Phra Thewathammi from Wat Supattanaram.

During the absolute monarchy period, Wat Sri Ubon Rattanaram was the site for official ceremonies such as the water oath (พิธีถือน้ำพิพัฒน์สัตยา) and served as a training ground for many prominent monks, including Phra Ubali Khunupamacharya, Somdet Phra Maha Wirawong, Phra Sasana Dilok, Phra Ajahn Sao Kantasilo, and Phra Ajahn Mun Bhuridatta.

The temple also houses the sacred Phra Kaew Busarakham, a crystal Buddha statue carved in the Chiang Saen style. This statue is a Buddha in the Mara Vichaya posture, measuring 3 inches wide and 5 inches tall, made of yellow crystal, historically linked to the royal family of Chiang Rung (Xishuangbanna) fleeing invasions and settling in northeastern Thailand. The statue is related to the Emerald Buddha and represents one of the three revered jewels of Buddhism: the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha.

Phra Kaew Busarakham was hidden during times of conflict but later brought back and enshrined in Wat Sri Ubon Rattanaram, where it is still revered. Traditionally, the public worships the statue once a year during the Songkran festival to ensure its preservation and security.

• By car or taxi from downtown Ubon Ratchathani

• Local buses that pass through Tambon Nai Mueang

• Motorbike taxi services available nearby

• Visit during Songkran festival to witness the special rituals for Phra Kaew Busarakham

• Dress respectfully as it is an active religious site

• Photography may be restricted in some areas—ask permission before taking photos inside temple buildings

Admission Fee: Free entry

Opening Time: Open daily from 07:00 to 17:00