Rating: 4/5 (4 votes)

Open Days: Daily (It is recommended to check current route conditions and water levels with the site caretakers before visiting)

Opening Hours: 07.00 – 16.00

 

Tham Kaeo Sawan Bandan, Kanchanaburi Province, is located within Wat and the Tham Kaeo Sawan Bandan Meditation Retreat in Sangkhla Buri District, Kanchanaburi. The cave lies close to the Sangkhla Buri–Three Pagodas Pass route and is a natural cave renowned for its striking stalactites and stalagmites that shimmer vividly when illuminated by light. This sparkling effect gives the interior an appearance as if it were dusted with fine diamond powder. Such unique beauty has made Tham Kaeo Sawan Bandan particularly popular among nature lovers and adventure-oriented travelers. Unlike caves with concrete walkways, this cave requires true exploration, relying on physical effort, balance, and concentration to move carefully through each section.

 

Tham Kaeo Sawan Bandan is a complex cave system consisting of several interconnected chambers, each named according to its distinctive characteristics for ease of reference and storytelling. These include Wang Badan Cave (also known as Badan Cave), where water may accumulate to about knee level; Phor Pu Ruesi Cave, which conveys an atmosphere of faith and tranquility associated with meditation practice; Kaeo Morakot Cave, where some stalactite and stalagmite surfaces appear greenish in tone; and Kaeo Cave together with Sawan Bandan Cave, which are especially notable for their highly reflective rock surfaces. Exploring the entire cave system requires time, endurance, and proper preparation, as the route includes climbing over rocks, crawling or squeezing through narrow passages, and wading through water in certain sections.

 

For visitors who wish to explore all sections of the cave without rushing, it is advisable to allocate at least six hours. The actual time required depends on group size, physical condition, and the cave conditions on the day of the visit. Larger groups may take longer due to waiting turns in narrow passages and assisting one another for safety. Careful time planning is therefore essential, particularly avoiding entry too close to closing time, as fatigue toward the end of the visit may increase the risk of slipping or injury.

 

Tham Kaeo Sawan Bandan is not only a natural attraction but also part of a temple and meditation retreat area, giving the surroundings a calm and simple atmosphere. Visitors should dress modestly, refrain from making loud noises, and behave appropriately as they would when visiting a temple. Maintaining cleanliness and preserving the cave environment are equally important. Stalactites and stalagmites are formed through long natural processes, and unnecessary touching may damage their surfaces and cause long-term deterioration. Visiting the cave with environmental awareness is therefore an important part of preserving its beauty.

 

In terms of difficulty, the cave is considered moderate to fairly challenging for those unfamiliar with cave exploration. Some sections have slippery surfaces, uneven levels, and standing water. Proper equipment is essential, including footwear with good traction that can get wet, comfortable and protective clothing, a flashlight or headlamp, waterproof bags for valuables, as well as drinking water and light snacks. Visitors with knee or ankle problems, or those uncomfortable with confined spaces, should carefully consider their route and may choose to explore only the safer sections.

 

Getting There Tham Kaeo Sawan Bandan can be reached by traveling from Sangkhla Buri toward the Three Pagodas Pass. At kilometer marker 16, turn right at the roadside rest pavilion, then drive along a dirt road for approximately 700–800 meters. Turn right again and continue for about 200 meters to reach the temple and meditation retreat where the cave is located. Extra caution is advised when driving on the dirt road, especially during the rainy season. Visitors may ask monks or local caretakers for the latest information on access routes and cave conditions before entering.

 

With proper planning, Tham Kaeo Sawan Bandan can be seamlessly included in a Sangkhla Buri itinerary, whether as a stop before visiting the Three Pagodas Pass in the afternoon or as part of an overnight stay in Sangkhla Buri to explore the Mon Bridge and Wat Wang Wiwekaram the following day. Staying overnight allows for a more relaxed schedule and provides ample time to fully experience the cave.

 

 

A: To explore all sections thoroughly, visitors should allow at least six hours.

 

A: Yes, some sections contain standing water that may reach knee level. Proper footwear and waterproof bags are recommended.

 

A: Certain sections may be suitable, but the full route may not be appropriate for young children or elderly visitors with mobility limitations.

 

A: Non-slip footwear, comfortable clothing, a flashlight or headlamp, waterproof bags, and drinking water.

 

A: Photography is allowed, but visitors should proceed carefully, avoid disturbing others, and refrain from touching stalactites and stalagmites.