Rating: 4.3/5 (4 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08.00–17.00

 

Wat Tham Mangkorn Thong, Kanchanaburi Province is an old cave temple located on the western bank of the Khwae Noi River, approximately 3–4 kilometers from Kanchanaburi town. The temple is distinguished by a cave situated about 100 meters above ground level and an access path marked by a long stairway shaped like a dragon. This striking approach leaves visitors with a strong impression of both spiritual energy and natural beauty from the very first glance. Wat Tham Mangkorn Thong therefore stands as a place where religion, nature, and cultural belief are clearly intertwined within a single setting.

 

The geography of Wat Tham Mangkorn Thong is particularly notable for its hillside location along the Khwae Noi River. Visitors can enjoy elevated views of the temple grounds as well as the river flowing below. The cave itself rests on a high slope and is reached by climbing approximately 95 brick-and-mortar steps. On both sides of the staircase, dragon sculptures raise their heads, creating the feeling of walking through symbols of power, protection, and faith before entering the sacred space above. Ascending the stairs is therefore not merely physical exertion, but also a gradual preparation of the mind toward calmness and focus.

 

Tham Mangkorn Thong is a relatively small cave, yet it possesses a distinctive character. Inside, intricate rock formations form a complex network of crevices and passages, creating fascinating patterns of light and shadow. One of the most memorable features is a lion figure attached to a large rock at the cave entrance, which has become an important symbol of the site. In both Thai and Chinese belief systems, lions often represent strength, authority, and protection, reinforcing the perception of Tham Mangkorn Thong as a sacred and powerful place.

 

Wat Tham Mangkorn Thong was established around the year 1934, making it a temple with a long-standing history in Kanchanaburi. Although it is not a large temple, it has long served as an important spiritual center for communities along the Khwae Noi River. The temple has been carefully maintained and gradually developed over time, while preserving its original natural landscape. This approach has allowed the temple to retain the charm and authenticity of a traditional cave temple.

 

One of the unique features that has made Wat Tham Mangkorn Thong well known among both Thai and international visitors is the “floating nun” performance. This rare cultural display presents images of nuns moving gracefully upon the water’s surface, creating a memorable impression that reflects spiritual devotion and disciplined mental training. Rather than serving purely as entertainment, the performance conveys deeper ideas of meditation, stillness, and harmonious coexistence with nature.

 

In addition, Wat Tham Mangkorn Thong hosts an important annual event known as the Luang Pu Jor Khemiyo Festival, held every year in early June. The event includes mass ordination ceremonies and various religious activities that are highly valued by the local community. This annual celebration is not only a religious occasion, but also a time when people from different areas gather together, fostering cultural exchange and strengthening communal bonds along the Khwae Noi River.

 

A visit to Wat Tham Mangkorn Thong appeals to a wide range of travelers, including pilgrims seeking merit and meditation, cultural enthusiasts interested in history and belief systems, and photography lovers drawn to the dragon staircase, the cave, and panoramic river views from above. The most suitable times to visit are early morning or late afternoon, when temperatures are cooler and the light is softer. On clear days, the scenery of the Khwae Noi River becomes especially vivid and impressive.

 

Getting There Wat Tham Mangkorn Thong can be reached by car via the Kanchanaburi–Dan Makham Tia road, approximately 4 kilometers from the town center. Alternatively, visitors may travel by boat along the Khwae Noi River for about 3 kilometers, followed by a walk of approximately 1 kilometer to the temple. Traveling by boat offers a different experience, allowing visitors to enjoy riverside scenery before ascending to the temple grounds.

 

In summary, Wat Tham Mangkorn Thong is a destination where nature, faith, and local culture come together harmoniously. The cave, the dragon staircase, the floating nun performance, and the annual Luang Pu Jor festival all contribute to the temple’s unique identity. For those seeking a cave temple in Kanchanaburi that is easy to reach, rich in stories, and layered with cultural meaning, Wat Tham Mangkorn Thong is a place well worth visiting.

 

 

A: It is located along the Khwae Noi River in Mueang Kanchanaburi District, about 3–4 kilometers from the town center.

 

A: Approximately 95 steps, with dragon sculptures lining both sides of the staircase.

 

A: No, it is performed on special occasions and during certain events. Visitors are advised to check with the temple in advance.

 

A: It is held every year in early June, featuring the Luang Pu Jor Khemiyo festival and mass ordination ceremonies.

 

A: Yes, visitors can travel by boat along the Khwae Noi River for about 3 kilometers, then walk approximately 1 kilometer to reach the temple.