Wat Tham Khao Wong

Wat Tham Khao Wong is located in Ban Rai Subdistrict and is set upon a large hill, approximately 12 kilometers from the district center. Visitors can reach the temple via Highway 3011, passing the bend at Chao Pho Khao Rak Shrine, then turn right at a three-way intersection and continue for about 6 kilometers. A left turn leads to Khao Wong for another 8 kilometers, followed by a final 300-meter ascent along a gently sloping path. The winding route includes cliffside sections, requiring careful navigation through narrow mountain crevices, offering travelers scenic and adventurous views along the way.

 

The temple itself is a four-story structure designed to accommodate both religious practices and public activities. The ground floor serves as a multipurpose area and houses a small shop for visitors. The second floor is a vihara for religious ceremonies and meditation, while the third floor contains monks’ living quarters. The fourth floor features the main ordination hall, constructed from teak and makha wood, as well as reclaimed wood from traditional Thai houses in Ayutthaya and Ang Thong. Some roof components were brought from Lamphun, with skilled artisans crafting detailed elements such as the gables, ventilation panels, and ornate ridge decorations, reflecting exquisite traditional Thai architecture.

 

The temple’s landscaping is particularly impressive, with a backdrop of towering limestone cliffs. At the front, a pond and gardens adorned with stones, bonsai, and decorative plants create a serene and harmonious environment. The total construction cost is estimated at around 30 million baht. Along the walking path to the caves, visitors encounter an artificial waterfall carefully designed to complement the natural surroundings.

 

Behind the temple are seven to eight caves, each offering unique experiences. Some are meditation spots for monks, others house bats, and a few feature impressive stalactites and stalagmites for visitors to admire. The mountaintop offers a wide plateau covered with natural vegetation, including rubber trees, makha trees, and sla trees, providing habitats for various wildlife. The combination of natural beauty and thoughtfully designed pathways allows visitors to enjoy a complete experience of nature, tranquility, and spiritual reflection.

 

Wat Tham Khao Wong is an ideal destination for those seeking to escape the bustle of city life, immerse themselves in peaceful surroundings, and appreciate both natural beauty and traditional Thai craftsmanship. The temple and its surrounding landscape offer not only a place for religious practice but also an opportunity to learn about Thai architecture, art, and history, making it a significant cultural and spiritual attraction in Uthai Thani Province.