Skip to main content
Visit Thailand Today
Temples & Culture
Khao Lak

Somdej Ong Pathom Shrine

4.4(51 reviews)

Nestled in the Khuekkhak area of Takua Pa District in Phang Nga province, this Buddhist shrine centres on a large seated Buddha image — the name referring to a revered depiction of Somdej Ong Pathom, a highly venerated figure in Thai Buddhist tradition. The site draws both local worshippers and visitors seeking a quieter, more authentic spiritual experience away from the more heavily touristed temples of southern Thailand. Visitors can expect a calm and contemplative atmosphere typical of community-oriented Thai religious sites. The grounds reflect genuine local devotion rather than a commercialised tourist attraction, making it a meaningful stop for those interested in everyday Thai Buddhist culture and practice. The seated Buddha image itself is the focal point, and the surrounding area carries the peaceful, unhurried character common to rural Phang Nga. As with all Buddhist temples and shrines in Thailand, visitors should dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees out of respect for the sacred nature of the site. Footwear will likely need to be removed before approaching the shrine. Arriving during daylight hours is advisable, and visiting outside of major Buddhist holidays will generally mean a quieter experience. No website or official opening hours are currently listed, so it is worth visiting earlier in the day to ensure access.

Book tours & tickets in Khao Lak

Day trips, skip-the-line entry, and guided experiences around Somdej Ong Pathom Shrine — book ahead and skip the on-the-ground markup.

We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.

Experience hints

Hidden gem

Also Popular in Khao Lak

Mu Ko Similan National Park
Featured

Mu Ko Similan National Park

4.7(4,682)
MJ4X+XH2, Tambon Lam Kaen, Amphoe Thai Mueang

A remote national park archipelago off Phuket's coast, famed for turquoise waters, white sand, and world-class diving.

Bang Niang Market

Bang Niang Market

4.2(9,142)
Phet Kasem Rd, Tambon Khuekkhak, Amphoe Takua Pa, Chang Wat Phang-nga 82220, Thailand

A popular open-air night market in Khao Lak offering local street food, handicrafts, and a relaxed evening atmosphere.

Khao Sok National Park

Khao Sok National Park

4.7(8,884)

Khao Sok National Park protects one of the world's oldest rainforests — older than the Amazon — draped over dramatic limestone karsts in southern Thailand between Phuket and Surat Thani.

JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa

JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa

4.7(3,193)
41/12 Moo 3 Khuk Khak, Khao Lak, อำเภอตะกั่วป่า พังงา 82220, Thailand

Upscale beachfront resort in Khao Lak offering spacious rooms, villas, a lagoon pool, and a full-service spa.

Somdej Ong Pathom Shrine: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Somdej Ong Pathom Shrine worth visiting?

Somdej Ong Pathom Shrine holds a 4.4★ rating from 51 Google reviews — a strong rating for temples & culture in Khao Lak.

When is the best time to visit Somdej Ong Pathom Shrine?

The best months to visit Khao Lak are November – April (Similan season Oct 15 – May 15), with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – February (strong European family season) — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: May – October (rough seas, Similans closed).

Where is Somdej Ong Pathom Shrine located?

Somdej Ong Pathom Shrine is at M6HX+JH7, Khuekkhak, Takua Pa District, Phang Nga 82190, Thailand, in Khao Lak. Getting around Khao Lak: Songthaews along the main coastal road (Phetkasem highway); Motorbike rental (฿250–300/day; the resort areas string along one road).

Visitor Information

Best time to visit

November – April (Similan season Oct 15 – May 15)

Avoid: May – October (rough seas, Similans closed)

Rainy season

May – October

Avg. temperature

24°C – 33°C(75°F – 91°F)

Crowds

Moderate

Peak: December – February (strong European family season)

Getting there

Phuket International Airport (HKT) is 60–75 minutes south by taxi or shared minivan (฿700–1,500). Buses from Bangkok's Southern Terminal reach Khao Lak town in 10–12 hours; most stop on request along the resort strip.

Getting around

  • Songthaews along the main coastal road (Phetkasem highway)
  • Motorbike rental (฿250–300/day; the resort areas string along one road)
  • Hotel shuttles and taxis — no Grab coverage to speak of
  • Tour transfers to Khao Sok and the Similan piers are hotel-pickup based

Where to stay near Somdej Ong Pathom Shrine

Find hotels in Khao Lak on the booking sites travellers trust most.

  • Compare prices across sites
  • Filter for free cancellation
  • Secure checkout on the partner site

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.

Nearby Places

Wat Phadung Tham Phothi Wat
Hidden Gem

Wat Phadung Tham Phothi Wat

4.6(90)
Moo 5, Tambon Khuekkhak, Amphoe Takua Pa, Phang-nga, 82190, ตำบลคึกคัก อำเภอตะกั่วป่า พังงา 82190, Thailand

A peaceful Buddhist temple in Khao Lak's Khuekkhak district, offering a quiet cultural retreat.

Wat Phanat Nikhom
Hidden Gem

Wat Phanat Nikhom

4.5(99)
M7C3+HRX, Ban Bang Niang, ตำบลคึกคัก อำเภอตะกั่วป่า พังงา 82220, Thailand

A tranquil Buddhist temple in the Ban Bang Niang area, offering a glimpse into local spiritual life.

Bun Tao Gong Temple

Bun Tao Gong Temple

4.2(29)
M7X2+MR2, Khuekkhak, Takua Pa District, Phang Nga 82190, Thailand

A local Chinese shrine in Khao Lak offering a glimpse into the region's spiritual and cultural heritage.

Wat Khom Niya Khet (Wat Khuek Khak)

Wat Khom Niya Khet (Wat Khuek Khak)

4.7(346)
P743+5PV, Khuekkhak, Takua Pa District, Phang Nga 82190, Thailand

A peaceful Buddhist temple near Khao Lak, offering an authentic glimpse into local religious life.

Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand

Wat Phra Kaew
Featured

Wat Phra Kaew

4.7(43,722)
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

4.7(12,029)
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(79,769)
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.

The Sanctuary of Truth Museum

The Sanctuary of Truth Museum

4.7(46,481)
206, 2 Soi Na Kluea 12, Muang Pattaya, Amphoe Bang Lamung, Chang Wat Chon Buri 20150, Thailand

A towering all-wood monument in Pattaya, hand-carved without nails and still under construction after decades.