Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand — The province has taken a major step toward becoming a global hub for wellness tourism with the official announcement of its initiative “Ubon Ratchathani: World Meditation City.” The event, hosted by the provincial government, welcomed Ms. Paulomi Tripathi, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of India in Thailand, as guest of honor.
The ceremony was attended by Deputy Governor Phusit Noisolapakun, senior provincial officials, and representatives from partner organizations, marking a collaborative push to position Ubon Ratchathani as a center for meditation, yoga, and holistic wellbeing.
In her remarks, Ms. Tripathi praised the province’s forward-thinking vision. She commended Ubon Ratchathani for championing wellness tourism and for encouraging communities to seek inner balance through traditional practices such as meditation and yoga.
She emphasized the long-standing connection between the two cultures and expressed the Embassy’s intention to continue fostering religious, cultural, and people-to-people exchanges.
Strengthening Educational and Cultural Connections
During her visit, Ms. Tripathi also toured the ‘India Corner’ at Ubon Ratchathani Rajabhat University, where she presented newly published books on India to enrich the library’s collection.
The handover ceremony was attended by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Malee Chaisema, Vice President of the university, and Ms. Woranuch Sriphalang, Director of Library and Information Technology.
The India Corner continues to serve as a resource hub for students interested in Indian culture, history, literature, and international relations.
A Province with Deep Buddhist Heritage
Ubon Ratchathani’s spiritual heritage has long made it a significant destination for Buddhist pilgrims. In 2024, the province was one of four sites in Thailand where the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha and his principal disciples, Arahant Sariputta and Arahant Mahamoggallana, were enshrined for public exposition.
More than 800,000 devotees from across the Isan region and beyond visited the holy site, underscoring the province’s profound religious importance and its potential to grow as a global wellness and pilgrimage destination.