Ban Rai Temple, Luang Phor Koon
A mosaic elephant shrine sitting in a lake, and it's worth the drive out to Dan Khun Thot.
Plan your visit
- Hours
- Daily 08:00–17:00
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
Tours that include Ban Rai Temple, Luang Phor Koon
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Why go, and how to do it well
The elephant shrine in the middle of the lake is the reason people make the trip, and it earns it. Every surface is mosaic work, tile by tile, and the effect up close is different from what you get in photos. Around the grounds there's a tiled chapel and seven-headed naga statues lining the paths. The whole complex honors Luang Phor Koon, one of the most venerated monks in this part of the country, which explains the scale of the place and the steady flow of Thai visitors paying respects.
Give it more time than you think. The structures are spread out rather than stacked into one courtyard, so it's a walk between them, and rushing it defeats the point. I'd go early. Doors open at eight, the light is softer, and Korat in the middle of the day is no fun on foot with limited shade. This is a proper working religious site, not a photo stop, so keep that in mind if you turn up with a camera and a plan.
Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Sep 2026
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Experience hints
8P2P+3VV, Rai, Kut Phiman, Dan Khun Thot District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30210, Thailand
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All within a 1-minute walk of Ban Rai Temple, Luang Phor Koon.
Elephant temple
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.
Ban Rai Temple, Luang Phor Koon: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ban Rai Temple, Luang Phor Koon worth visiting?
Ban Rai Temple, Luang Phor Koon holds a 4.7★ rating from 5,476 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Korat.
What are the opening hours of Ban Rai Temple, Luang Phor Koon?
Ban Rai Temple, Luang Phor Koon is typically open 08:00–17:00 — 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 Ban Rai Temple, Luang Phor Koon?
The best months to visit Korat are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in Thai long weekends & Phimai Festival (November) — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: April (peak heat).
Where is Ban Rai Temple, Luang Phor Koon located?
Ban Rai Temple, Luang Phor Koon is at 8P2P+3VV, Rai, Kut Phiman, Dan Khun Thot District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30210, Thailand, in Korat. Getting around Korat: Songthaews on fixed city routes; Grab and Bolt (both work well in the city).
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