Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im
Situated along Mae Nam Kwai Road in central Kanchanaburi, this Chinese Buddhist temple is dedicated to Kuan Im, the Goddess of Mercy — a revered figure in Mahayana Buddhist tradition widely venerated across Thailand's Chinese-heritage communities. The temple's riverside setting lends it a calm, contemplative quality that sets it apart from more heavily visited sites in the region, making it a meaningful cultural stop for travellers seeking to understand the spiritual diversity woven into Thai religious life.
Visitors can expect a peaceful atmosphere with traditional devotional architecture, incense offerings, and the quiet rhythms of local worship. The site offers genuine insight into the blending of Chinese Buddhist practice with Thai temple culture — something particularly characteristic of Kanchanaburi's heritage. Its consistent visitor ratings reflect a place that resonates both with those drawn to its spiritual significance and those simply looking for a tranquil pause along the river.
The temple is open every day of the week from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, making it easy to incorporate into a broader itinerary that might include nearby historical sites along the River Kwai. Early morning visits tend to offer the quietest experience and the most atmospheric light. As with all sacred sites in Thailand, modest dress is expected — covered shoulders and knees show respect for the space and those actively worshipping there. No admission fee is indicated, and no advance booking is required.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im, round out your day in Kanchanaburi with contrasting stops nearby.
Also Popular in Kanchanaburi

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Keeree Mantra Restaurant
Come for the limestone mountain views, stay for the deep-fried gourd salad and a table that doesn't feel rushed.

Keereetara Riverside
Riverside tables with the Bridge over the River Kwai in view, and a menu long enough to please any group.

Keeree Tara
You're paying for a ringside view of the River Kwai bridge, and honestly, it's worth it.
Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im worth visiting?
Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im holds a 4.6★ rating from 163 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Kanchanaburi.
What are the opening hours of Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im?
Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im is typically open 07:00-18:00 — 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 Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im?
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 Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im located?
Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im is at 423 Maenamkwai Road, Tambon Tha Ma Kham, Amphoe Mueang Kanchanaburi, Chang Wat Kanchanaburi 71000, Thailand, in Kanchanaburi. Getting around Kanchanaburi: Bicycle rental (town is flat); Motorbike rental.
Location Info
423 Maenamkwai Road, Tambon Tha Ma Kham, Amphoe Mueang Kanchanaburi, Chang Wat Kanchanaburi 71000, Thailand+66 65 046 8877Visitor 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 is recommended if you're 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 Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im
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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.
Nearby Places

Prisoners of War Memorial
A solemn WWII monument in Kanchanaburi honouring POWs who died building the Thailand-Burma Railway.

Kanchanaburi Steam Trains
WWII steam trains displayed near the River Kwai Bridge, offering a glimpse into wartime railway history.

World War 2 Museum
A small but deeply moving WWII museum in Kanchanaburi dedicated to the Burma Railway and its POWs.

The Glory River Khwae
A riverside cultural retreat in Kanchanaburi blending relaxed accommodation with scenic Kwai River views.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand

Wat Phra Kaew
Go at 08:30 or don't bother, the Emerald Buddha's courtyards fill up fast and stay full until closing.

Doi Suthep Temple
Go at first light, before the tour vans arrive, and the golden chedi and the whole Chiang Mai valley are yours.

The Grand Palace
Go at 08:30 sharp, cover your shoulders and legs, and give it three hours rather than one.

The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
A hand-carved wooden giant still under construction, and watching the carpenters work is half the point.
Where to stay near Wihan Phra Phothisat Kuan Im
Find hotels in Kanchanaburi on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
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 is recommended if you're exploring beyond town.
Getting around
- •Bicycle rental (town is flat)
- •Motorbike rental
- •Songthaews along the river
- •Long-tail boat tours on the river