Wat Mahathat Laem Sak
Tucked away in the coastal Ao Luek District near Laem Sak, this working Buddhist temple serves as a genuine spiritual landmark within Krabi's cultural landscape. Unlike the heavily touristed temples closer to Krabi Town, it offers visitors an unfiltered glimpse into everyday Thai Buddhist practice, where locals continue to come for worship and quiet meditation. The combination of traditional Thai temple architecture and a tranquil setting makes it a rewarding stop for travellers seeking cultural depth beyond the region's well-known beaches and islands. Visitors can expect a calm, unhurried atmosphere throughout the grounds. The temple's design reflects Thailand's rich spiritual heritage, and the peaceful surroundings provide space for contemplative walking, quiet observation, and photography. Because it functions as an active place of worship rather than a tourist attraction, the experience feels genuinely authentic and respectful of local religious life. Good to know: As with all Thai temples, modest dress is required — shoulders and knees should be covered before entering. The temple is open every day from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and weekday mornings tend to be quieter if a more reflective visit is preferred. Given its location in the Ao Luek area, it pairs well with nearby natural attractions along Krabi's lesser-explored coastline. The temple maintains a Facebook page at the link provided for any updates on events or closures.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wat Mahathat Laem Sak, round out your day in Krabi with contrasting stops nearby.
Location Info
7MH2+C4R, Laem Sak, Ao Luek District, Krabi 81110, Thailand+66 83 140 0414www.facebook.com/mahalamsak/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.
Also Popular in Krabi
Ko Lanta
Coral-fringed beaches draw scuba divers to this lush island district with a national park.
Ko Phi Phi Don
Largest island in the Ko Phi Phi archipelago, featuring scenic inlets, beach resorts & restaurants.
Emerald Pool
A natural spring-fed pool in Krabi's jungle, famed for its striking emerald-green water and peaceful rainforest setting.
Kodam Kitchen branch 1
Highly regarded budget Thai restaurant in Ao Nang, open daily, known for curries, seafood, and Pad Thai.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
Thailand's most sacred Buddhist temple, home to the Emerald Buddha
Doi Suthep Temple
Hilltop temple overlooking Chiang Mai with stunning golden chedi
The Grand Palace
Built in 1782, this ornate royal palace complex now houses a museum & is open to visitors.

Pattaya Walking Street
Colorful red-light area, closed to vehicles nightly & lined with bars, nightclubs, eateries & neon.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – April
Avoid: June – September (rough Andaman seas)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
23°C – 33°C(73°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Krabi Airport (KBV) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). Ferries connect to Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, and Phuket. Bus/minivan from Phuket takes ~3 hrs.
Getting around
- •Long-tail boats (islands & Railay Beach)
- •Songthaews in Ao Nang
- •Grab (limited, mainly Ao Nang)
- •Motorbike rental