Rating: 4.3/5 (6 votes)

Open Days: Open Daily

Opening Hours: 06:00 – 18:00

 

Wat Ao Noi, also known as “Wat Tham Phra Non” (the Reclining Buddha Cave Temple), is a Buddhist temple located in Ao Noi Subdistrict, Mueang District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. This temple is considered one of the important religious attractions in the province, offering a unique combination of natural beauty, Buddhist art, and interesting local history. The temple is situated at the foot of a mountain that extends toward the sea, allowing visitors to enjoy beautiful views of Ao Noi Bay and the surrounding coastline. As a result, the temple has become a popular destination for both tourists and devotees who wish to pay respect to sacred Buddha images and spend time in a peaceful atmosphere.

 

Wat Ao Noi is a royal Buddhist temple under the Maha Nikaya sect. It was officially established on January 26, 1987, and later received the royal Wisungkhamsima boundary on August 9, 2010, allowing the temple to conduct formal Buddhist ceremonies according to the monastic discipline. Since its establishment, the temple has gradually developed and has become an important religious and cultural center for the local community of Ao Noi.

 

The most distinctive feature of Wat Ao Noi is the “Reclining Buddha Cave,” located on a mountain beside the sea. This cave is believed to be around 300–500 years old and has long been regarded as a sacred place by the local people. Inside the cave are two reclining Buddha statues, making the cave a significant destination for visitors who come to explore the temple.

 

The first reclining Buddha statue is located near the entrance of the cave. It is a large Buddha image lying on its right side and measures approximately 20 meters in length. This statue is the first sight that visitors encounter upon entering the cave. The beauty of the Buddha image, covered with a yellow robe, creates a calm and sacred atmosphere inside the cave. Many visitors pay their respects here to seek blessings and good fortune in their lives.

 

The second reclining Buddha statue is located deeper inside the cave. This Buddha image lies on its left side and measures about 14 meters long. The area surrounding the statue is cool and quiet, giving visitors a sense of peace and relaxation. Many people believe that paying respect to both reclining Buddha statues will bring good fortune and inner peace.

 

According to local legends, the cave once served as a shelter for sailors during storms or rough seas. Because the cave is located on a mountain close to the coastline, sailors passing through the area would sometimes stop there to take refuge from strong winds and waves before continuing their journey. This story has become part of the local history and adds charm to the significance of Wat Ao Noi.

 

Another remarkable architectural highlight of Wat Ao Noi is the golden teakwood ordination hall. The entire structure is built from teakwood and displays exquisite craftsmanship. Inside the ordination hall is a beautifully carved marble Buddha image. The interior walls are decorated with carvings depicting stories from the life of the Buddha, including his birth, enlightenment, and other important events in Buddhist history. These artistic details allow visitors to learn about Buddhist teachings through the temple’s art and architecture.

 

In addition, the temple houses a white jade Buddha statue that was brought from Myanmar. This statue is another sacred object that attracts devotees who come to pay respect for good fortune and blessings. Surrounding the ordination hall are Naga sculptures that symbolize the protection of Buddhism and enhance the sacred atmosphere of the temple.

 

Visitors who wish to see the Reclining Buddha Cave must walk up a staircase that leads up the mountain. Along the way, travelers can stop to enjoy the scenic views of Ao Noi Bay and the vast ocean stretching across the horizon. The scenery is especially beautiful during sunset, when the sky changes into shades of gold and orange. The peaceful surroundings make this place ideal for relaxation and photography.

 

Visiting the Reclining Buddha Cave and paying respect to both reclining Buddha statues at Wat Ao Noi is an experience that travelers should not miss. In addition to receiving spiritual blessings, visitors can also appreciate the beautiful natural scenery and the cultural significance of this remarkable temple.

 

Getting There If traveling from Bangkok, visitors can take Phetkasem Road (Highway No. 4) heading south toward Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. Once reaching the city area, follow the signs toward Ao Noi Subdistrict. The distance from the city center to the temple is approximately 5 kilometers, and the journey takes about 10–15 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Visitors can park their vehicles in the temple’s parking area before walking up the stairs to the Reclining Buddha Cave.

 

 

A: Wat Ao Noi is located in Ao Noi Subdistrict, Mueang District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, Thailand.

 

A: The cave is estimated to be around 300–500 years old.

 

A: There are two reclining Buddha statues inside the cave.

 

A: The temple is open daily from 06:00 to 18:00.

 

A: Yes, visitors must walk up the staircase leading to the Reclining Buddha Cave on the mountain.