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Wat Tham Suea
Temples & Culture
Kanchanaburi

Wat Tham Suea

4.6(17,091 reviews)

An 18-meter-tall Buddha built in 1973 is the focus of this well-known temple on a hilltop.

Experience hints

Visitor favorite

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!

Location Info

XJ34+H36, Muang Chum, Tha Muang District, Kanchanaburi 71110, Thailand
Opening Hours
Monday08:00-17:00
Tuesday08:00-17:00
Wednesday08:00-17:00
Thursday08:00-17:00
Friday08:00-17:00
Saturday08:00-17:00
Sunday08:00-17:00

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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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