Ubol Ratana Dam

Ubol Ratana Dam is a multi-purpose hydroelectric and irrigation dam on the Phong River in Ubolratana District, Khon Kaen Province, northeastern Thailand, about 50 km northwest of Khon Kaen city. Completed in 1966 as the first hydroelectric project in Isan, it was originally called Phong Neeb Dam and later renamed for Princess Ubol Ratana. The dam creates a large reservoir used for power generation, irrigation, flood control, fisheries and recreation, with scenic viewpoints and lakeside facilities.

Visitors can expect a large earth-fill dam with a crest road, spillway, and expansive reservoir surrounded by low hills and forested shoreline. The site offers panoramic viewpoints over the water, lakeside parks and restaurants, fishing piers and boat landing areas. Visitors can walk along the dam, view the power station area from outside, take photos of the reservoir, enjoy lakeside dining, and take short boat trips or fishing excursions when available.

Constructed between 1964 and 1966 on the Phong River as the Phong Neeb Dam, it was the first hydroelectric development in northeastern Thailand (Isan). Developed by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) for power generation, irrigation, flood control and fisheries, it was later renamed Ubol Ratana Dam in honour of Princess Ubol Ratana Rajakanya.

The dam and reservoir are an important resource for agriculture, fisheries and daily life in Khon Kaen and surrounding provinces, and serve as a popular local recreation and merit-making leisure destination with nearby temples overlooking the reservoir.