Wat Phadung Tham Phothi Wat
Nestled in the Khuekkhak subdistrict of Takua Pa, Phang-nga, Wat Phadung Tham Phothi Wat is a traditional Buddhist temple that provides a genuine glimpse into local religious life in the Khao Lak region. Set away from the area's more tourist-heavy coastal attractions, it offers a sense of calm and authenticity that draws both devout visitors and those with a curiosity for Thai spiritual culture. Visitors can expect a tranquil atmosphere typical of rural Thai temples, with traditional architecture, shrine areas, and the kind of quiet contemplative environment that encourages respectful exploration. The temple serves the local community as an active place of worship, which adds to its cultural sincerity. Its consistently positive reception among visitors reflects the welcoming nature of the site and the care with which it is maintained. As with all Buddhist temples in Thailand, visitors are expected to dress modestly — shoulders and knees should be covered before entering any buildings or sacred areas. Removing shoes before stepping inside shrines is also customary. As opening hours are not publicly confirmed, it is advisable to visit during daylight hours, typically mid-morning, when temples are generally accessible and at their most active. There is no website available for advance information, so arriving respectfully and following the cues of local worshippers is the best approach for a smooth visit.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wat Phadung Tham Phothi Wat, round out your day in Khao Lak with contrasting stops nearby.
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Wat Phadung Tham Phothi Wat: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wat Phadung Tham Phothi Wat worth visiting?
Wat Phadung Tham Phothi Wat holds a 4.6★ rating from 90 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Khao Lak.
When is the best time to visit Wat Phadung Tham Phothi Wat?
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 Wat Phadung Tham Phothi Wat located?
Wat Phadung Tham Phothi Wat is at Moo 5, Tambon Khuekkhak, Amphoe Takua Pa, Phang-nga, 82190, ตำบลคึกคัก อำเภอตะกั่วป่า พังงา 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).
Location Info
Moo 5, Tambon Khuekkhak, Amphoe Takua Pa, Phang-nga, 82190, ตำบลคึกคัก อำเภอตะกั่วป่า พังงา 82190, ThailandVisitor 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
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 Wat Phadung Tham Phothi Wat
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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

สมเด็จองค์ปฐม ฯ หน้าตัก
A revered Buddhist shrine in Khao Lak featuring a prominent seated Buddha image worth visiting.

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

Bun Tao Gong Temple
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)
A peaceful Buddhist temple near Khao Lak, offering an authentic glimpse into local religious life.
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.

The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
A towering all-wood monument in Pattaya, hand-carved without nails and still under construction after decades.
Where to stay near Wat Phadung Tham Phothi Wat
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
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Agoda
Asia-focused selection
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 – 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
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