Wat Tham Khao Laem
A cave temple near Khao Laem Reservoir blending natural limestone formations with Buddhist shrines in Kanchanaburi.
Plan your visit
- Hours
- Open 24 hours daily
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.
Details
- Phone
- +66 81 178 1223
Full opening hours
Tours that include Wat Tham Khao Laem
Guided visits and day-tour combos that include Wat Tham Khao Laem.
Why go, and how to do it well
Situated in the Mueang district of Kanchanaburi, this Buddhist temple incorporates natural cave formations into its spiritual structures, creating an uncommon setting where geology and religious practice exist side by side. The proximity to Khao Laem Reservoir adds a scenic dimension to the visit, with limestone outcroppings and water views framing the temple grounds in a way that distinguishes it from more conventional wat complexes in the region.
Visitors can expect a calm, contemplative atmosphere centered around cave-based shrine areas and traditional Buddhist structures. The site tends to attract travelers looking for a quieter, more reflective experience away from busier temple destinations in Kanchanaburi, making it a worthwhile stop for those with an interest in both Thai religious culture and natural landscapes.
Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Sep 2026
Stay within reach of Wat Tham Khao Laem
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Best rated within 2.0 km
Tours that include Wat Tham Khao Laem
Guided visits and day-tour combos that include Wat Tham Khao Laem.
Around here, on foot
Well-rated places within a short walk of Wat Tham Khao Laem, nearest first. Minutes are at an easy pace in the heat.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wat Tham Khao Laem, round out your day in Kanchanaburi with contrasting stops nearby.
100, Tambon Pak Phraek, Amphoe Mueang Kanchanaburi, Chang Wat Kanchanaburi 71000, Thailand
Open in Google MapsMore temples & culture nearby
All within 2.2 km of Wat Tham Khao Laem.
Chong Kai Allied War Cemetery
Wat Tham Mangkorn Thong
Wat Tham Khao Pun
The JEATH War Museum Kanchanaburi
Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
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.
Go Early Morning
Big-name temples are dramatically less crowded in the first hour after opening. You'll also avoid the worst of the midday heat and get softer light for photos.
Wat Tham Khao Laem: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wat Tham Khao Laem worth visiting?
Wat Tham Khao Laem holds a 4.5★ rating from 387 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Kanchanaburi.
What are the opening hours of Wat Tham Khao Laem?
Wat Tham Khao Laem is open 24 hours a day — 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 Tham Khao Laem?
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 Tham Khao Laem located?
Wat Tham Khao Laem is at 100, Tambon Pak Phraek, Amphoe Mueang Kanchanaburi, Chang Wat Kanchanaburi 71000, Thailand, in Kanchanaburi. Getting around Kanchanaburi: Bicycle rental (town is flat); Motorbike rental.
Also popular in Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi Night Market
Keeree Mantra Restaurant
Thai Thai Relax Massage
Srinagarindra Dam
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