Kanchanaburi attractions

Attractions in Thailand

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: Generally 08:00–17:00

Wat Tham Suea is one of the most well-known temples and an important landmark of Kanchanaburi Province. Located in Muang Chum Subdistrict, Tha Muang District, the temple is a popular destination for both Buddhist devotees and tourists who wish to admire a massive Buddha image, exquisite architectural details, and panoramic scenery overlooking the Mae Klong River, the dam, and the lush green rice fields of the surrounding community.

Originally, Wat Tham Suea was only a small monastic retreat situated inside a cave at the foot of the hill. The cave was discovered by Luang Pho Sing, a wandering monk who practiced meditation in the area. Later, Luang Pho Chuen undertook major restoration and development of the temple. With the strong faith and support of local villagers and devotees, the site gradually expanded into a large and beautifully developed temple, widely recognized as it is today.

Upon entering the temple grounds, visitors will find a spacious parking area and a variety of food stalls and souvenir shops. The sermon hall near the parking area houses the preserved body of Luang Pu Chuen, enshrined in a glass coffin for devotees to pay their respects. Nearby are pavilions displaying statues of former abbots, as well as the cave area itself, which is divided into four chambers: a main hall with the principal Buddha image, meditation chambers once used by Luang Pho Chuen, and a chamber enshrining the Goddess of Mercy, Guan Yin.

Reaching the Hilltop can be done in two ways. Visitors may climb the naga staircase consisting of 157 steps, which is fairly steep and suitable for those seeking a physical and spiritual challenge. Alternatively, an electric tram service offers round-trip transportation at a modest fee, making it convenient for elderly visitors. Upon reaching the summit, the first prominent structure is Phra Chedi Ketkaeo Maha Prasat, along with a spacious terrace leading toward the main Buddha image.

The large outdoor Buddha image in the gesture of bestowing blessings, commonly known as “Luang Pho Chin Prathan Phon,” serves as the spiritual focal point of the temple. The statue is distinguished by its graceful and serene appearance. Nearby stands the octagonal ordination hall (Ubosot Atthamuk), a Thai-style structure adorned with intricate decorative details and used for important monastic ceremonies.

Phra Chedi Ketkaeo Maha Prasat is another major highlight of the temple. Inside, sacred Buddha relics are enshrined, while the upper levels offer a 360-degree panoramic view. From the front, visitors can see the Mae Klong River and the dam; from the rear, expansive green rice fields stretch across the landscape, clearly reflecting the traditional way of life of the Muang Chum and Tha Muang communities. This makes the chedi both a sacred site and an outstanding scenic viewpoint.

Wat Tham Suea harmoniously combines faith, art, and natural scenery. It is suitable for both short visits and extended explorations. When paired with a visit to the adjacent Wat Tham Khao Noi, the journey through the Tha Muang area becomes even more complete and rewarding.

Place Name	Wat Tham Suea
Address	Muang Chum Subdistrict, Tha Muang District, Kanchanaburi Province
Summary	A hilltop temple and major landmark of Kanchanaburi, renowned for its giant Buddha image, Phra Chedi Ketkaeo Maha Prasat, and panoramic 360-degree views.
Highlights	Luang Pho Chin Prathan Phon, octagonal ordination hall, Phra Chedi Ketkaeo Maha Prasat, views of the Mae Klong River and surrounding rice fields
Abbot (Latest)	Phra Khru Wiboon Thammapirom