The Ban Kan Lueang Archaeological Site, located in Ban Kan Lueang, Mueang District, Ubon Ratchathani Province, is one of the most significant archaeological sites in northeastern Thailand. It dates back around 2,000–3,000 years, belonging to the late prehistoric period. The site was first discovered during land development for agriculture and community construction, when human skeletons and pottery fragments were found underground. This prompted the Fine Arts Department to conduct systematic archaeological excavations, revealing numerous artifacts that confirmed the presence of an ancient settlement along the lower Mun River basin.

Findings at the site include prehistoric human skeletons buried in a supine position with grave goods such as pottery, stone tools, and ornaments. These burial practices reflect beliefs in the afterlife and respect for ancestors. The pottery discovered is highly diverse, including jars, pots, bowls, and spouted vessels, some decorated with incised patterns and cord-marked designs that demonstrate advanced craftsmanship. Stone tools such as polished axes, whetstones, and grinding stones indicate reliance on natural resources and agricultural activities. Ornaments like stone beads suggest body decoration or ritual significance.

These discoveries reveal that the ancient community of Ban Kan Lueang practiced subsistence agriculture alongside hunting and foraging. The burial traditions, with accompanying grave goods, illustrate religious beliefs and ritual practices while also indicating a degree of social complexity.

The significance of Ban Kan Lueang Archaeological Site extends beyond proving human settlement in this region. It also establishes cultural connections with other important archaeological sites in Thailand, such as Ban Chiang in Udon Thani and Ban Non Wat in Nakhon Ratchasima. This makes it an invaluable source for studying social and cultural development in the Lower Mekong Basin.

Today, the Ban Kan Lueang Archaeological Site is preserved and maintained by the Fine Arts Department in collaboration with local authorities. Parts of the area have been developed into an educational site for history and archaeology, with exhibitions of excavation photos and information for the public, students, and researchers. It now serves as a living classroom where visitors can learn about the origins of civilization and the way of life of humans over 2,000 years ago, while also instilling pride in the local community for safeguarding this precious cultural heritage.

• From Ubon Ratchathani city, take Highway 23 toward Warin Chamrap District. Turn into Ban Kan Lueang village. The site is about 10 km away and takes around 15–20 minutes by car.

• Ideal for educational and cultural tourism focused on history and archaeology.

• Visitors should dress modestly and behave respectfully as this is a cultural heritage site.

• Avoid touching or disturbing any archaeological remains.

Admission Fee

• Free entry

Opening Hours

• Daily, 06:00 – 18:00