Skip to main content
Visit Thailand Today
Wat Tham Khao Noi
Temples & Culture
Kanchanaburi

Wat Tham Khao Noi

4.5(376 reviews)

Perched on a small hill in Kanchanaburi's Tha Muang district, this Chinese-style Buddhist temple offers a peaceful and visually striking alternative to its more widely known neighbour, Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Temple), which sits directly adjacent. The two temples are separate sites, and while visitors short on time often prioritise one over the other, Wat Tham Khao Noi rewards those who make the effort to explore both. Ornate architecture, gilded statues, and a tranquil atmosphere define the experience here. The climb to the upper levels involves a significant number of stairs, but the panoramic views across the surrounding landscape — including the neighbouring temple complex — make the ascent worthwhile. For those unable or unwilling to manage the steps, a cable car is available, though visitors should be aware that separate pricing applies for foreign nationals. The temple grounds are open daily from 07:00 to 18:00, giving visitors plenty of flexibility to plan their visit. As with all Buddhist temples in Thailand, modest dress is expected — shoulders and knees should be covered before entering. The temple is free or low-cost to visit, though exact admission details are not listed. Arriving earlier in the day helps avoid midday heat, which can make the stair climb more demanding. The temple maintains a Facebook page for updates. Those travelling to the Kanchanaburi region who have an interest in religious architecture and scenic viewpoints will find this a worthwhile stop.

Experience hints

Visitor favorite

Pair your visit. After Wat Tham Khao Noi, round out your day in Kanchanaburi with contrasting stops nearby.

Visitor Reviews

Nestled beside the Tiger Temple in Kanchanaburi is the hidden marvel of Wat Tham Khao Noi, a Chinese-style Buddhist temple that caught my eye during my visit. Although it's not directly accessible from the Tiger Temple, my curiosity led me to venture down from the Tiger Temple to explore this intriguing site. The entrance to Wat Tham Khao Noi is a feast for the eyes, adorned with beautiful details that set the tone for the cultural richness within. As I ascended the temple, I found myself increasingly enamored with the surroundings. The architectural beauty, combined with the presence of intricate sculptures, created an atmosphere of tranquility, making me feel transported to a serene and spiritual haven. Climbing to the temple's summit proved to be a rewarding endeavor. Not only did it offer a breathtaking panoramic view of the landscapes surrounding the temple, but it also provided a unique vantage point to appreciate the Tiger Temple from a different perspective. The climb, though a bit challenging, added a sense of accomplishment to my visit. For those willing to embrace a bit of physical activity, Wat Tham Khao Noi promises an unforgettable experience. The serene environment, coupled with the temple's architectural grandeur and the sweeping vistas, make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the cultural and spiritual treasures of Kanchanaburi. Whether you're an avid adventurer or simply seeking a tranquil escape, this Chinese-style Buddhist temple offers a memorable and enriching excursion that lingers in the heart and mind.

We initially confused this with Wat Tham Suea which is next door. This is a different Chinese style temple and is also well worth the visit if you have time (if you only have time for one, go see Wat Tham Suea). The view from the entrance is stunning, you can see the temple's own pagoda with the buildings of Wat Tham Suea nearby in the background. Inside the ground floor building there are multiple statues of mythical Chinese figures. After that you can go up the stairs to get to the pagoda, which itself has quite a few floors to climb. You will get some great views of the surrounding plains and Wat Tham Suea. Just note that there is no way to get to Wat Tham Suea from here, even though they share walls. It seems really silly that they haven't added a little bridge or doorway to connect these 2 sites. Entrance is free.

Tham Khao Noi Temple is a beautiful Chinese-style Buddhist temple in Kanchanaburi Province. The atmosphere is very peaceful and pleasant. I visited the top of the temple, and the view from there was amazing. It’s a short walk up the stairs, but there is also a cable car option. I chose to walk up the steps and really enjoyed the calm surroundings. It’s a nice and peaceful place to visit.

Location Info

18, 1, Tambon Muang Chum, Amphoe Tha Muang, Chang Wat Kanchanaburi 71110, Thailand+66 81 849 7199www.facebook.com/Watthamkhaonoi2426/
Opening Hours
Monday07:00-18:00
Tuesday07:00-18:00
Wednesday07:00-18:00
Thursday07:00-18:00
Friday07:00-18:00
Saturday07:00-18:00
Sunday07:00-18:00

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

Where to stay near Wat Tham Khao Noi

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.

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.

Also Popular in Kanchanaburi

The Village Farm To Café

The Village Farm To Café

4.9(30,594)$$$$
ทล 323 Thanon Sangchuto, Tambon Nong Bua, Amphoe Mueang Kanchanaburi, Chang Wat Kanchanaburi 71190, Thailand

A deceptively spacious farm-to-café on Highway 323 that opens into a lush, village-like retreat.

Keeree Mantra Restaurant

Keeree Mantra Restaurant

4.8(14,742)$$$$
88, 8 Thanon Sangchuto, Tambon Nong Bua, Amphoe Mueang Kanchanaburi, Chang Wat Kanchanaburi 71190, Thailand

Scenic open-air Thai restaurant with limestone mountain views, spacious indoor and outdoor seating, and traditional dishes.

Keereetara Riverside

Keereetara Riverside

4.9(10,896)$$$$
433 1 Tambon Tha Ma Kham, Amphoe Mueang Kanchanaburi, Chang Wat Kanchanaburi 71000, Thailand

Gourmet Thai dining on the banks of the River Kwai, with views of the iconic bridge.

Keeree Tara

Keeree Tara

4.6(7,390)$$$$
431 1 Maenamkwai Road, Tambon Ban Tai, Amphoe Mueang Kanchanaburi, Chang Wat Kanchanaburi 71000, Thailand

Riverside Thai restaurant with sweeping views of the iconic River Kwai Bridge, open daily.

Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand

Wat Phra Kaew
Featured

Wat Phra Kaew

4.6(85,000)
Na Phra Lan Rd, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200

Bangkok's most sacred temple sits within the Grand Palace complex, home to the revered Emerald Buddha.

Doi Suthep Temple
Featured

Doi Suthep Temple

4.6(58,000)
Doi Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200

A sacred mountaintop Buddhist temple from 1383, offering a golden chedi and sweeping views over Chiang Mai.

The Grand Palace

The Grand Palace

4.6(76,723)
Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand

A breathtaking 18th-century royal palace complex showcasing centuries of Thai history, gold-adorned architecture, and sacred temples.

Pattaya Walking Street

Pattaya Walking Street

4.3(51,994)
Walking St, Muang Pattaya, Amphoe Bang Lamung, Chang Wat Chon Buri 20150, Thailand

Pattaya's iconic pedestrian nightlife strip, buzzing nightly with bars, clubs, seafood, and neon lights.