Wat Huay Mongkol
The draw here is one thing, and it's enormous: a 12-metre statue of Luang Pu Thuat, the 16th-century monk credited in Thai tradition with turning saltwater into fresh. Pilgrims come from all over the country to pay respects and to buy amulets tied to his name. If you're expecting a warren of ornate halls, adjust your expectations. This is a wide, park-like site with a lake, pavilions, a three-headed Erawan elephant, snack booths and space to feed the fish and deer. Reviews from people hoping for more than the statue tend to come away a bit flat.
Go in the morning. Come in the afternoon and the sun sits behind the statue, so your photos turn out as a dark outline against a bright sky. Outside high season some of the booths stay shut, which makes the grounds feel quieter still, and that's no bad thing. It's a calm counterweight to a beach holiday, and the drive out from central Hua Hin is short.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wat Huay Mongkol, round out your day in Hua Hin with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
A short drive from Hua Hin you find this impressive temple. The temple was built in 1964 and displays a twelve metres tall statue of the 16th century monk Luang Phor Thuad who according to history turned saltwater into drinking water on several occasions. Erawan the three headed elephant also found the way to the beautiful Wat Huay Mongkol. Definitely worth the visit. Please remember to dress accordingly if entering the temple.
This Temple is amazing and shares a deep history of Buddhism and Buddhists in Thailand. Luang Pu Thuat, a highly revered monk serve the Thailand Buddhist community for over a century! It is said that anyone who possessed an amulet made in his era, contain superpowers of protection that were sacred.
Not much to see except the large statue. There is a strong sun backlight during the afternoon so morning should be better for nice pictures. Beware that it might be hard to find a taxi back to Hua Hin.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 15,360 reviews on Google.
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Wat Huay Mongkol: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wat Huay Mongkol worth visiting?
Wat Huay Mongkol holds a 4.6★ rating from 15,360 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Hua Hin.
What are the opening hours of Wat Huay Mongkol?
Wat Huay Mongkol is typically open 06:00-20:30 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit Wat Huay Mongkol?
The best months to visit Hua Hin are March – August, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in Weekends year-round (Bangkok day-trippers) — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: September – November (rainy season).
Where is Wat Huay Mongkol located?
Wat Huay Mongkol is at ทางหลวงหมายเลข 3219 Tambon Thap Tai, Amphoe Hua Hin, Chang Wat Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110, Thailand, in Hua Hin. Getting around Hua Hin: Songthaews (blue, along main roads); Motorbike taxis.
Location Info
ทางหลวงหมายเลข 3219 Tambon Thap Tai, Amphoe Hua Hin, Chang Wat Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110, Thailand+66 81 858 6661www.facebook.com/huaymongkoltemplehuahinVisitor Information
Best time to visit
March – August
Avoid: September – November (rainy season)
Rainy season
September – November
Avg. temperature
23°C – 33°C(73°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: Weekends year-round (Bangkok day-trippers)
Getting there
Minivan from Bangkok's Victory Monument (~3.5 hrs). Train from Hua Lamphong station (~4 hrs, scenic). I'd go with a private car.
Getting around
- •Songthaews (blue, along main roads)
- •Motorbike taxis
- •Bicycle rental
- •Grab available
Where to stay near Wat Huay Mongkol
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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
Go at 08:30 or don't bother, the Emerald Buddha's courtyards fill up fast and stay full until closing.
Doi Suthep Temple
Go at first light, before the tour vans arrive, and the golden chedi and the whole Chiang Mai valley are yours.
The Grand Palace
Go at 08:30 sharp, cover your shoulders and legs, and give it three hours rather than one.
The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
A hand-carved wooden giant still under construction, and watching the carpenters work is half the point.
Where to stay near Wat Huay Mongkol
Find hotels in Hua Hin on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
March – August
Avoid: September – November (rainy season)
Rainy season
September – November
Avg. temperature
23°C – 33°C(73°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: Weekends year-round (Bangkok day-trippers)
Getting there
Minivan from Bangkok's Victory Monument (~3.5 hrs). Train from Hua Lamphong station (~4 hrs, scenic). I'd go with a private car.
Getting around
- •Songthaews (blue, along main roads)
- •Motorbike taxis
- •Bicycle rental
- •Grab available