Temples & Culture

Kanchanaburi

Wat Ban Tham

4.6(2,514 reviews)

Featured in: The 10 Best Temples & Cultural Sites in Kanchanaburi, Ranked

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.

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Experience hints

Visitor favorite

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.

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Wat Ban Tham: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Wat Ban Tham worth visiting?

Wat Ban Tham holds a 4.6★ rating from 2,514 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Kanchanaburi.

What are the opening hours of Wat Ban Tham?

Wat Ban Tham is typically open 07:30-17:00 — 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 Ban Tham?

The best months to visit Kanchanaburi are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in November – February — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: April – May (extreme heat).

Where is Wat Ban Tham located?

Wat Ban Tham is at ต.เขาน้อย อ.ท่าม่วง จ.กาญจนบุรี 711110 Tambon Khao Noi, Amphoe Tha Muang, Chang Wat Kanchanaburi 71110, Thailand, in Kanchanaburi. Getting around Kanchanaburi: Bicycle rental (town is flat); Motorbike rental.

Location Info

ต.เขาน้อย อ.ท่าม่วง จ.กาญจนบุรี 711110 Tambon Khao Noi, Amphoe Tha Muang, Chang Wat Kanchanaburi 71110, Thailand

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Opening Hours

Monday07:30-17:00

Tuesday07:30-17:00

Wednesday07:30-17:00

Thursday07:30-17:00

Friday07:30-17:00

Saturday07:30-17:00

Sunday07:30-17:00

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

Moderate

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

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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.