Wat Sai Thai
Tucked just outside Krabi Town, this small but rewarding Buddhist temple is built at the base of a limestone hill and centres around a striking reclining Buddha carved into the mountainside. Less visited than the well-known Wat Tham Suea, it offers a genuinely tranquil setting where active worship still takes place — incense, candles, and offerings are kept beside the Buddha for those who wish to participate. A cave on the grounds contains statues of hermit figures connected to Thai beliefs about the spiritual power of the jungle, adding an extra layer of cultural depth beyond a typical temple visit.
The atmosphere is calm and unhurried, and visitors have noted the chance to receive a blessing from a resident monk — a meaningful and authentic experience rarely found at busier tourist sites. The temple is visible from the road between Krabi Town and Ao Nang, making it a natural stop for those travelling that route. The grounds are modest in scale but rich in character, appealing to anyone interested in everyday Thai Buddhist practice rather than grand, purpose-built attractions.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wat Sai Thai, round out your day in Krabi with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
It's a small buddha temple. Carved out in the hill. Very peaceful. Resting buddha is good. You can see the temple from the road to Ao nang to Phuket and must see and visit. The monk will also bless you with mantras.
A small charming temple with a reclining Buddha at the base of a mountain. There’s a cave with a few statues of the hermits that are part of Thai beliefs about the magic in the jungle. There’s also an amazing large and old tree that stands in front of the building that houses the reclining Buddha.
A Peaceful and Less Touristy Temple in Krabi Wat Sai Thai is a small but beautiful Buddhist temple located just outside Krabi Town. Unlike the more famous Wat Tham Suea, this temple offers a quieter and more local experience, making it a great stop for those looking to explore Krabi’s cultural side without the crowds. Highlights of Wat Sai Thai ✅ Reclining Buddha Statue – The temple’s main attraction is a striking golden reclining Buddha nestled under a large rock formation. It’s a unique sight and offers a peaceful setting for reflection and photography. ✅ Serene Atmosphere – Since it’s not overrun with tourists, Wat Sai Thai provides a more authentic and tranquil experience, perfect for those seeking a spiritual or cultural visit. ✅ Easy Accessibility – Located along the road between Krabi Town and Ao Nang, it’s a convenient stop if you’re traveling between these areas. It doesn’t require a long climb or hike, making it accessible to all visitors. Things to Keep in Mind • Short Visit – Unlike larger temples, Wat Sai Thai is a small site, so you don’t need more than 20–30 minutes to explore it. • Respectful Dress Code – As with all temples in Thailand, it’s important to dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees) out of respect for local traditions. Final Verdict Wat Sai Thai is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful break from Krabi’s busier attractions. While it’s not as grand as some other temples, its serene setting and impressive reclining Buddha make it well worth a quick visit. Rating: 4/5 – A great cultural stop for those in the area.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 285 reviews on Google.
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Wat Sai Thai: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wat Sai Thai worth visiting?
Wat Sai Thai holds a 4.3★ rating from 285 Google reviews — a strong rating for temples & culture in Krabi.
When is the best time to visit Wat Sai Thai?
The best months to visit Krabi are November – April, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – February — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: June – September (rough Andaman seas).
Where is Wat Sai Thai located?
Wat Sai Thai is at 3VJ9+QGM, Sai Thai, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81000, Thailand, in Krabi. Getting around Krabi: Long-tail boats (islands & Railay Beach); Songthaews in Ao Nang.
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 or 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
Where to stay near Wat Sai Thai
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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
Krabi grand place
Budget-friendly two-star hotel in Krabi town, offering affordable rooms at a convenient city location.
The Palm Krabi
A cultural retreat in Krabi's Pak Nam area, offering visitors a peaceful escape with local charm.
Jurassic Krabi Props
A unique prop and costume studio near Krabi town where visitors can dress up for creative themed photography.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
Go at 08:30 or don't bother, the Emerald Buddha's courtyards fill up fast and stay full until closing.
Doi Suthep Temple
Go at first light, before the tour vans arrive, and the golden chedi and the whole Chiang Mai valley are yours.
The Grand Palace
Go at 08:30 sharp, cover your shoulders and legs, and give it three hours rather than one.
The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
A hand-carved wooden giant still under construction, and watching the carpenters work is half the point.
Where to stay near Wat Sai Thai
Find hotels in Krabi 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 Expedia
Bundle & save
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.
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 or 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