King Rama V Rock and Statue
Perched on elevated ground on the island of Koh Tao, this site pays tribute to King Rama V, one of Thailand's most beloved monarchs, through a dedicated statue and rock formation. The site holds genuine cultural and historical significance for Thai visitors, while also offering international travellers a meaningful glimpse into the deep reverence Thai people hold for their royal heritage. The combination of the statue, natural rock surroundings, and elevated position makes it a distinctive stop that sits apart from Koh Tao's more typical beach and dive-focused attractions. Visitors can expect a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere rather than a busy tourist spectacle. The setting is relatively natural and unhurried, making it a welcome contrast to the island's livelier coastal areas. The site is accessible throughout the day and, according to its listed hours, remains open around the clock, giving visitors flexibility to time their visit for cooler morning hours or softer late-afternoon light. As this is a cultural and royal memorial site, visitors are encouraged to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees as a matter of courtesy. There is no website listed for advance planning, so asking locally about the easiest walking or driving route is advisable. With no entry fee indicated, it serves as an accessible cultural detour suitable for most travellers spending time on the island.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After King Rama V Rock and Statue, round out your day in Koh Tao with contrasting stops nearby.
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King Rama V Rock and Statue: Frequently Asked Questions
Is King Rama V Rock and Statue worth visiting?
King Rama V Rock and Statue holds a 4.3★ rating from 105 Google reviews — a strong rating for temples & culture in Koh Tao.
What are the opening hours of King Rama V Rock and Statue?
King Rama V Rock and Statue is typically open 00:00-23:59 — 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 King Rama V Rock and Statue?
The best months to visit Koh Tao are March – September (calmest water, best visibility), with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January & July – August — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: November (monsoon swell peaks).
Where is King Rama V Rock and Statue located?
King Rama V Rock and Statue is at 3RRG+3MF, Ko Tao, Ko Pha-ngan District, Surat Thani 84360, Thailand, in Koh Tao. Getting around Koh Tao: Walking around Sairee and Mae Haad; Motorbike rental (฿200–300/day; some concrete roads are extremely steep).
Location Info
3RRG+3MF, Ko Tao, Ko Pha-ngan District, Surat Thani 84360, ThailandVisitor Information
Best time to visit
March – September (calmest water, best visibility)
Avoid: November (monsoon swell peaks)
Rainy season
October – December
Avg. temperature
25°C – 32°C(77°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January & July – August
Getting there
Lomprayah catamarans connect from Chumphon in about 1.5–2 hours (฿600–700) — the standard route from Bangkok is an overnight bus or train to Chumphon plus the morning boat. Ferries also arrive from Koh Phangan (~1 hr) and Koh Samui (~1.5–2 hrs). No airport.
Getting around
- •Walking around Sairee and Mae Haad
- •Motorbike rental (฿200–300/day; some concrete roads are extremely steep)
- •Longtail and dive-boat taxis to the far bays
Where to stay near King Rama V Rock and Statue
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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

วัดเกาะเจริญสันติธรรม
A peaceful Buddhist temple offering a tranquil cultural retreat amid the natural beauty of Koh Tao.

Love Koh Tao
A cultural landmark on Koh Tao offering a glimpse into Thai spiritual life, open daily until early evening.

Chalok baan kao bay
A relaxed bay on Koh Tao's south coast, fringed by coconut palms with beachfront eateries and dive centres.

Aow June Juea
A peaceful cultural site on Koh Tao, open around the clock for quiet reflection and exploration.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand

Wat Phra Kaew
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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 King Rama V Rock and Statue
Find hotels in Koh Tao 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
March – September (calmest water, best visibility)
Avoid: November (monsoon swell peaks)
Rainy season
October – December
Avg. temperature
25°C – 32°C(77°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January & July – August
Getting there
Lomprayah catamarans connect from Chumphon in about 1.5–2 hours (฿600–700) — the standard route from Bangkok is an overnight bus or train to Chumphon plus the morning boat. Ferries also arrive from Koh Phangan (~1 hr) and Koh Samui (~1.5–2 hrs). No airport.
Getting around
- •Walking around Sairee and Mae Haad
- •Motorbike rental (฿200–300/day; some concrete roads are extremely steep)
- •Longtail and dive-boat taxis to the far bays