About ten kilometers south of Phang Nga, Wat Tham Khuha Sawan occupies a limestone cave transformed into a Buddhist sanctuary. Known locally as the Cave Temple, Monkey Temple, or Monkey Temple, it combines an active place of worship, royal heritage, and cave fauna observation. Its centerpiece: a 5-meter golden reclining Buddha, installed at the far end of the main cavern.

Why Visit Wat Tham Khuha Sawan

The site combines three interests rarely found together in a single Thai temple. First, a remarkable geological setting: the sanctuary is built inside a limestone outcrop riddled with stalactites and stalagmites, extended by three subsidiary caves (Tam Jaeng, Tam Meud, and Tam Kaew). Second, genuine spiritual significance, with active monks, devotees who come to pray, leave floral offerings, or burn incense. Finally, visible wildlife on site: bats and cave birds inside the grotto, colonies of macaque monkeys in the surrounding area, whose presence inspired the place's nickname.

The temple makes a logical stop on the route between Phuket and Phang Nga, complementing an excursion into the bay or a visit to nearby islands.

History

The foundation of Wat Tham Khuha Sawan dates back to the 15th century. The first known monk of the place, Pho Than Chao Tham, presided in the main grotto called Tam Yai, where an ancient sanctuary still stands against the rock wall.

The site has been visited by several members of the Thai royal family over the centuries. Their passage is attested by royal inscriptions carved into the rock walls, still visible today. The temple's chedi, whose architecture is visibly inspired by that of Wat Arun in Bangkok, houses the remains of the Na Takuathung family. Historians suppose that this notable family financed the temple's construction, which would explain the stylistic connection between the two buildings, but this hypothesis is not formally documented.

What to See On Site

The Main Cave and Reclining Buddha

The temple park extends roughly 40 meters long and 30 meters wide. Entry is through an ornate gateway depicting Buddha that opens onto Tam Yai. Inside, the 5-meter golden reclining Buddha forms the focal point of the visit. A staircase along the back of the statue provides access to two small chapels above, from which visitors can view the chamber from a different angle.

Other representations of Buddha, more modest, are displayed throughout the grounds in seated or standing positions. Natural limestone formations have been preserved and structure the atmosphere of the place.

The Ubosot and Chedi

At the cave exit, the ubosot—the ordination hall—houses a collection of ceramics. The neighboring chedi, inspired by that of Wat Arun, deserves a few minutes of attention for its decoration and for the memory of the Na Takuathung family it preserves.

Subsidiary Caves and Wildlife

Three secondary cavities complete the ensemble: Tam Jaeng, Tam Meud, and Tam Kaew. They shelter cave fauna (bats, birds). Outside, macaques are omnipresent and characterize the site experience, with the precautions this entails for visitors and vehicles.

Practical Information

Temple entry is paid but the fee remains very modest (a few dozen baht). As in any Buddhist temple, attire covering shoulders and knees is expected, and shoes must be removed at the entrance to the sanctuary. Budget 1 to 1.5 hours on site to tour the main cave, the subsidiary areas, and the exterior buildings.

Regarding the monkeys: do not display food, keep bags and phones secure, and park your vehicle at least 100 meters from the entrance. The macaques are accustomed to pulling off antennas, windshield wipers, and any removable element from cars parked too close to the temple.

When to Visit

The Phang Nga region experiences a marked rainy season between May and October, with sustained showers that can complicate access and visits. The most favorable period extends from December to April, with dry weather and more stable temperatures. To avoid tour groups from Phuket, arrive early or late in the day.

How to Get There

The temple is located approximately 10 km south of Phang Nga town center, along Highway 4 (Pet Kasem Road), clearly marked by a gateway characteristic of Thai temples.

• From Phuket: allow approximately 1.5 hours by road via the Sarasin Bridge and Highway 4. Private taxi, rental car, or organized tour are the most practical options.
• From Krabi: approximately 1.5 to 2 hours via Highway 4 westward. Buses connecting Krabi to Phang Nga or Phuket stop nearby on request.
• From Phang Nga town: 15 to 20 minutes by tuk-tuk, songthaew, or local taxi.

Nearby Attractions

Wat Tham Khuha Sawan pairs well with a day in Phang Nga Bay (Koh Tapu, mangroves of Koh Panyi, caves of Koh Panak). If you continue southeast, several sites in the neighboring province of Phatthalung merit a detour: the pierced silhouette of Khao Ok Thalu, the wetlands of Thale Noi Waterbird Park, or the karst landscapes of Khao Pu and Kaeo Surakan Cave, which extend the experience of southern Thailand's limestone caves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Preparing Your Visit

Wat Tham Khuha Sawan integrates easily into an itinerary in southern Thailand, between Phuket, Phang Nga, and Krabi. To build a tailored journey including temples, karst bays, and beaches, consult our Thailand trips.