Wat Sirindhorn Wararam Phu Prao – The Glow-in-the-Dark Temple in Ubon

Why This Temple Is Worth the Trip
Wat Sirindhorn Wararam Phu Prao—often called Wat Phu Prao or the Glow-in-the-Dark Temple—is one of the most photogenic temples in Thailand. Sitting on a hill overlooking the Mekong River, its highlight is the radiant “Tree of Life” mural and glowing patterns across the terrace that illuminate beautifully at night. If you love night photography or cinematic landscapes, this place is a must-visit.

Location

The temple is located in Sirindhorn District, Ubon Ratchathani, near the Thai–Laos border at Chong Mek. 

How to Get There

From Ubon Ratchathani city: About 60–80 km (1–1.5 hours) by car. Follow the direction toward Chong Mek, then continue straight until you reach the temple sign. Renting a car or motorcycle is the easiest option.
Public Transport: Limited. You can take a van to Chong Mek and hire a local taxi or motorcycle taxi to the temple.
Parking & Entry Fee: Parking is available and entrance is generally free.

Best Time to Visit & Photography Tips

Best Time: Right after sunset until full darkness. Dark-moon nights show the glow most vividly.
Recommended Gear: Tripod, wide-angle lens (16–35mm), shutter remote, extra batteries, lens cloth.
Camera Tips:
– Long exposure 5–20 seconds for strong glow effect
– Keep ISO low to avoid noise in nighttime shots
– Shoot multiple exposures and blend for perfect dynamic range (HDR)
– Try capturing silhouettes of the temple during golden hour

My Favorite Photo Spots

The glowing Tree of Life behind the main chapel
Wide-angle shot from the lower terrace—glow patterns leading toward the chapel
Silhouette shot at sunset with the orange–purple sky as backdrop

Etiquette & Things to Know

Dress respectfully when visiting sacred areas
Avoid shining bright lights or flashes onto the mural
Be mindful of other photographers and worshippers
Keep the area clean and avoid blocking pathways with tripods

Nearby Amenities

Basic facilities such as restrooms and small souvenir stalls are available. For food and lodging, it’s best to stay in Ubon city or book a homestay near Chong Mek.

Suggested One-Day Itinerary

Morning: Depart from Ubon city, stop at a café or scenic viewpoint
Afternoon: Explore nearby attractions (e.g., Mekong viewpoints)
Evening: Arrive at the temple before sunset, stay for the glowing night scene

last updated 2025-11-17 15:28:33 view 929

Direction to Wat Sirindhorn Wararam Phu Prao

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

Recently post of Wat Sirindhorn Wararam Wat Phu Prao

---

 "วัดสวยๆ ดูยังไงก็ไม่เบื่อ ขอบคุณคุณ Aoy Kha "

2017-11-27 09:27:58

---

 "งามๆ จัดให้ชมแบบจุใจ จากคุณ Aoy Kha "

2017-11-27 09:27:14

---

 "โบสถ์เรืองแสงที่สวยงามสมคำร่ำลือ ไม่มีที่ไหนเสมอเหมือน โดยเฟสบุ๊คคุณ Aoy Kha"

2017-11-27 09:26:10

---

 "ความสวยงามยามเย็นของวัดภูพร้าว หรือสมญานามที่เรียกกันอีกชื่อหนึ่ง เรียกกันว่าวัดเรืองแสง ด้วยความสวยงามของแสง รอบรอบโบสถ์ เป็นที่มาของสมญานามนี้ และภาพนี้ ก็ทำให้มีนักท่องเที่ยวมากมาย เดินทางไปที่อุบลราชธานี เพื่อชมวัดภูพร้าว ภาพโดย สุริยาพรทัวร์"

2017-10-28 18:38:59

---

Attractions&Hotels near Wat Sirindhorn Wararam Wat Phu Prao

*note the distance is just a straight line not an accurate transition on the road

Direction to Wat Sirindhorn Wararam Phu Prao

click for map of Wat Sirindhorn Wararam Phu Prao