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King Rama V Rock and Statue

A hilltop cultural landmark on Koh Tao featuring a revered statue of King Rama V with panoramic island views.

4.3(105)Mae Haad Pier · 8 min walk
Directions

Plan your visit

Hours
Open 24 hours daily
Getting there
Mae Haad Pier
8 min walk

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.

Details

Full opening hours
MondayOpen 24 hours
TuesdayOpen 24 hours
WednesdayOpen 24 hours
ThursdayOpen 24 hours
FridayOpen 24 hours
SaturdayOpen 24 hours
SundayOpen 24 hours

Why go, and how to do it well

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 travelers 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 travelers spending time on the island.

Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Sep 2026

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Around here, on foot

Well-rated places within a short walk of King Rama V Rock and Statue, nearest first. Minutes are at an easy pace in the heat.

Experience hints

Pair your visit. After King Rama V Rock and Statue, round out your day in Koh Tao with contrasting stops nearby.

3RRG+3MF, Ko Tao, Ko Pha-ngan District, Surat Thani 84360, Thailand

Open in Google Maps

More temples & culture nearby

All within a 5-minute walk of King Rama V Rock and Statue.

Wat Koh Tao

Wat Koh Tao

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

Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture

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.

Go Early Morning

Big-name temples are dramatically less crowded in the first hour after opening. You'll also avoid the worst of the midday heat and get softer light for photos.

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 open 24 hours a day — 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).

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