OFFBEAT

Exploring Spirituality and Nature at the Khao Luang Cave

Ragini Mehra

Last updated: Apr 3, 2017

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See

Tham Khao Luang, one of the most famous cave shrines
Phra Nakhon Khiri National Park
Phra Ram Ratchaniwet, a beautiful summer palace

Do

Visit Khao Luang Cave, which has old Buddha statues
Fishing in the Phetchaburi River or play chess and other board games with locals by the riverside
Eat seafood at the beach Hat Puak Tian

Eat

Môr gaang (an egg and coconut-milk custard)
Kà·nŏm đahn (sweet steamed buns)

Events

The royal palace Phra Nakhon Khiri is the site of an eight-day annual festival called the Phra Nakhon Khiri Fair that includes light and dance shows

Want To Go ? 
   

Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo… Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo… Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo

buddha statue at khao luang caves
 Buddha statues at Khao Luang Cave

 

 

Every Buddhist temple in Thailand echoes with this chant, and Khao Luang Cave is no different. One of the most important Buddhist temples in the world, Khao Luang Cave is a must visit when on a trip to Thailand. Located in the Khao Luang Mountains, the cave is just 5 kilometres away from Phetchaburi.

About Khao Luang Cave

enterance at khao luang caves
 Entrance to Khao Luang Cave

 

 

A steep staircase descending from the foothill of Khao Luang leads to the cave, which is adorned with stalactites and stalagmites and is home to 170 Buddha statues. The statues shimmer as sunlight falls on them through the various openings. The main Buddha statue in the cave is 4 metres high. It was erected on the orders of King Chulalongkorn and dedicated to Kings Rama III and Rama IV. However, its most fascinating part is the huge reclining Buddha figure which draws millions of tourists from across the globe to the cave.

khao luang caves
​ Reclining Buddha figure inside the Cave

 

Why You Must Visit

The serenity and peace that exists inside the cave is sure to levitate your senses. The laid-back atmosphere here will give you the perfect break from the hustle-bustle of city life.

When and How to Go

The caves are open daily from 9 am to 4 pm and the admission is free. Taking a private taxi is the best way to get here. It takes less than an hour from Hua Hin and about two hours from Bangkok to reach Khao Luang Cave.