Pha Taem National Park

Pha Taem National Park sits on a sandstone plateau overlooking the Mekong River in Ubon Ratchathani province, eastern Thailand, and is notable for extensive prehistoric rock paintings and dramatic riverside cliffs. The park protects a long stretch of cliff and adjacent plateau that provide viewpoints over the river and the neighboring country of Laos.

The most prominent attraction is the series of rock paintings on the cliff face, which include human and animal depictions and are commonly dated to several thousand years old. Walks and short trails lead to multiple viewpoints along the cliff edge, and the park is used for both cultural interpretation of the prehistoric art and scenic viewing of the Mekong.

Archaeological study and park protection have focused on preserving the rock art and the sandstone landscape; over time the site became managed for tourism and conservation to limit damage to the paintings and provide controlled visitor access.

Geographically the park is located in the Khong Chiam district of Ubon Ratchathani province, sitting on the Mekong’s southern bank where the river forms part of the boundary with Laos. The park’s cliffs face the Mekong and provide panoramic views across the river.

• Best viewpoint/time: Viewing the river and cliff at sunrise offers clear light on the rock paintings and expansive views across the Mekong to Laos.
• Prehistoric art: Rock paintings on the cliff are widely dated to several thousand years old and represent one of the largest prehistoric galleries along the Mekong.

• Go for sunrise at the cliff viewpoint to see sweeping views of the Mekong and to avoid the heat and crowds that build later in the morning.
• Start at the park visitor centre so you can get a map and directions to the prehistoric cliff paintings and the main viewpoints - the paintings are a short walk from the cliff edge but easier to find with a map.
• Avoid weekends and national holidays if possible; mid-week visits or late-afternoon/early-morning slots give the best light for photography and a much quieter experience.