Wat Tham Suea
Perched on a hillside in Tha Muang District, Wat Tham Suea — commonly known as Tiger Cave Temple — is one of Kanchanaburi's most recognisable religious sites. The centrepiece is an 18-metre seated golden Buddha, constructed in 1973, which dominates the skyline and can be seen from a considerable distance before arrival. Alongside it stands an ornate octagonal chedi that visitors can enter, set against sweeping views over rice fields and the Mae Klong valley below. The temple grounds carry a serene and contemplative atmosphere, drawing both Thai worshippers and international visitors. Those who make the climb are rewarded with panoramic scenery, while the site's architectural detail — from the chedi to the surrounding shrines — offers plenty to take in at close range. The temple is an active place of worship, so the atmosphere balances quiet reverence with the gentle movement of visitors throughout the day. Good to know: the temple is open daily from 08:00 to 17:00, making it a convenient stop when travelling to or from Kanchanaburi. Visitors with mobility concerns will find motorised transport available to assist with the ascent. As with all Thai temples, modest dress is expected — shoulders and knees should be covered. A separate entry fee applies for foreign visitors, so carrying cash is advisable.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wat Tham Suea, round out your day in Kanchanaburi with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
This is a must visit temple, and you can stop here if you're going on the way to Kanchanaburi. The main attractions are obviously the big Buddha and octagonal chedi which can be entered. There are quite a few floors to climb with windows all around from which you can get great views of the Buddha, surrounding fields and the nearby pagoda of Wat Tham Khao Noi (which is a different Chinese style temple and you need to go to a different entrance to access it). Inside the chedi there are also various statues and paintings to see. The main attraction is obviously the big Buddha which is nestled in a structure which frames it nicely. There are a couple of other buildings to explore as well. You can write your name on a roof tile for a donation if you desire. There is a tall staircase leading up to this platform where the Buddha is, or you can take a little car up to the top if you're unable to take the stairs. I highly recommended visiting this place and the nearby Chinese temple too. The views are spectacular.
Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple) is one of the most impressive temples in Kanchanaburi. The giant seated Buddha is stunning and can be seen from far away. Up close, it’s even more striking. The temple complex sits on a hill, and while the climb up the stairs can be a bit of a workout, the panoramic views over the rice fields and countryside are absolutely worth it. The pagoda and surrounding buildings are beautifully maintained, and the entire area feels open and spacious. It’s a great place for photos, but also for simply taking in the peaceful atmosphere. A must-visit landmark when you’re in Kanchanaburi.
Regardless of the farang pricing, this is still a good place to appreciate this asthestic pleasing temple. Motorized rams are avaliable for those that have mobility issues and a beautifully designed stairways for those that wana climb. There is the main pagoda and also its subsidiary structures. 2 of the taller structures allows you to access to the 5th level for a fanstastic view of its surroundings. Highly recommended to drop by for an hour if in the area!
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Wat Tham Suea: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wat Tham Suea worth visiting?
Wat Tham Suea holds a 4.6★ rating from 17,091 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Kanchanaburi.
What are the opening hours of Wat Tham Suea?
Wat Tham Suea is typically open 08:00-17:00 — 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 Tham Suea?
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 Suea located?
Wat Tham Suea is at XJ34+H36, Muang Chum, Tha Muang District, Kanchanaburi 71110, Thailand, in Kanchanaburi. Getting around Kanchanaburi: Bicycle rental (town is flat); Motorbike rental.
Location Info
XJ34+H36, Muang Chum, Tha Muang District, Kanchanaburi 71110, ThailandTours & tickets nearby
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 Tham Suea
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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
Bangkok's most sacred temple sits within the Grand Palace complex, home to the revered Emerald Buddha.
Doi Suthep Temple
A sacred mountaintop Buddhist temple from 1383, offering a golden chedi and sweeping views over Chiang Mai.
The Grand Palace
A breathtaking 18th-century royal palace complex showcasing centuries of Thai history, gold-adorned architecture, and sacred temples.
Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan
An iconic riverside Buddhist temple adorned with intricate porcelain-tiled spires in Bangkok's old city.
Where to stay near Wat Tham Suea
Find hotels in Kanchanaburi on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Free cancellation on most rooms
- No booking fees
- Compare live prices
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Agoda
Best rates in Asia
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Hotels.com Rewards
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Tours & tickets nearby
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