Wat Ban Tham
Nestled in Tambon Khao Noi in Kanchanaburi province, Wat Ban Tham is a Buddhist cave temple built into a hillside and reached through an ornate entrance sculpted in the form of a dragon's mouth. The dramatic entryway sets the tone for what lies beyond: a staircase that winds upward through the dragon's body, past colourful murals depicting Buddhist history, and into a cave temple where visitors can receive a blessing. Those who continue climbing are rewarded with far-reaching views over the surrounding landscape and river below. The temple draws a range of visitors, from devout worshippers to curious travellers, and the atmosphere reflects both. The lower cave section can become busy, particularly on weekends, while the upper reaches of the hill offer a quieter reward for those willing to make the full ascent. Entry is free, making it an accessible stop for those exploring the wider Kanchanaburi region. Good to know: the climb requires a reasonable level of fitness, and sturdy footwear is recommended as some steps are steep and uneven. The temple is open daily from 07:30 to 17:00, so an earlier visit on weekdays is advisable to avoid crowds and secure a seat at the on-site food stalls. As with all Thai temples, modest dress covering shoulders and knees is expected.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wat Ban Tham, round out your day in Kanchanaburi with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
This temple is pretty amazing. You need reasonable fitness to climb to the top. I didn't go in the cave because there were so many people. I wanted to have lunch but I couldn't get a seat! I think it was a special day so it was quite populated. It could use some maintenance in a few places but definitely worth a visit.
Another temple on a mountain. It’s free entry. Enter via a flight of stairs leading to the dragon’s mouth. There are murals on the wall that tell the history. There is a cave temple not far up. Another 20 minutes hike will get you to the peak where you can enjoy a view of the river.
Walk up to the top of the temple through the dragons mouth. Half way in a cave collect your blessing. Some trickier steps give you the reward of some lovely far-reaching views. Well worth a visit. lots of parking and refreshments low level.
Location Info
ต.เขาน้อย อ.ท่าม่วง จ.กาญจนบุรี 711110 Tambon Khao Noi, Amphoe Tha Muang, Chang Wat Kanchanaburi 71110, Thailandwww.facebook.com/RaluePhoto5888/Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: April – May (extreme heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
20°C – 38°C(68°F – 100°F)
Crowds
Peak: November – February
Getting there
Train from Bangkok Thonburi station (~3 hrs, scenic). Minibuses from Mo Chit take ~2.5 hrs. Car hire recommended for exploring beyond town.
Getting around
- •Bicycle rental (town is flat)
- •Motorbike rental
- •Songthaews along the river
- •Long-tail boat tours on the river
Where to stay near Wat Ban Tham
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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.
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Keereetara Riverside
Gourmet Thai dining on the banks of the River Kwai, with views of the iconic bridge.
Keeree Tara
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Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
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The Grand Palace
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Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: April – May (extreme heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
20°C – 38°C(68°F – 100°F)
Crowds
Peak: November – February
Getting there
Train from Bangkok Thonburi station (~3 hrs, scenic). Minibuses from Mo Chit take ~2.5 hrs. Car hire recommended for exploring beyond town.
Getting around
- •Bicycle rental (town is flat)
- •Motorbike rental
- •Songthaews along the river
- •Long-tail boat tours on the river
Where to stay near Wat Ban Tham
Find hotels in Kanchanaburi on the booking sites travellers trust most.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.