A spiritual journey worth taking! If you’re looking for a peaceful trip that also brings spiritual blessings, don’t miss these must-visit temples in three of Southern Thailand’s most popular provinces — Krabi, Phang Nga, and Phuket. Each temple offers something unique, whether it’s perched on a mountain, located by the sea, or nestled within a historic community. With stunning architecture and deep cultural roots, these sacred spots are perfect for anyone seeking calm and inspiration during their travels.
Wat Tham Suea – Krabi
Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea) is one of the most famous landmarks in southern Thailand. Located just 5–6 kilometers from Krabi Town, it’s known for both its natural beauty and its importance as a meditation site.
Highlights ✨
🔻 1,260-step staircase
To reach the mountaintop, visitors must climb 1,260 steps. The climb is challenging, but the panoramic view of Krabi town and the Andaman Sea at the top is worth the effort.
🔻 Large golden Buddha statue
At the summit, there’s a massive golden Buddha statue, a popular photo spot and meditation point for many visitors.
🔻 Natural caves
The temple grounds include several caves, such as Kandan Cave, Lod Cave, and Chang Kaew Cave. These peaceful spots are often used for meditation.
How to Get There 🚗
🔻 From Krabi Town, the temple is about a 15–20 minute drive by car or taxi.
🔻 Local songthaews (shared trucks) also run from Krabi Town to the temple.
Opening Hours ⌚
Open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Tips 📌
🟢 Wear modest clothing suitable for temple visits
🟢 Bring water and sun protection, especially if you plan to climb to the top
🟢 Be cautious of monkeys around the area—do not feed or get too close
Wat Mahathat Wachiramongkol – Krabi
Wat Mahathat Wachiramongkol, also known as Wat Bang Thong, is a prominent royal temple located in Ban Bang Thong, Na Nuea Subdistrict, Ao Luek District, Krabi Province. It is affiliated with the Maha Nikaya sect of Thai Buddhism.
Highlights ✨
🔻 Phra Mahathat Chedi Chaloem Phra Kiat 50 Phansa Maha Vajiralongkorn
This golden pagoda stands about 95 meters tall and was inspired by the Mahabodhi Temple in India. It is one of the tallest pagodas in Southern Thailand.
🔻 Interior Murals
The pagoda walls feature detailed murals illustrating the life of the Buddha, decorated with traditional Thai patterns.
🔻 Sacred Buddha Images
Inside the temple, you’ll find a Buddha image in the posture of the first sermon (Dhammacakkappavattana), and a large statue of Luang Pu Thuat with a lap width of 9 meters 9 inches.
Visiting Information
📍 Location: Moo 3, Na Nuea Subdistrict, Ao Luek District, Krabi
⌚ Opening Hours: 08:00–18:00 daily
🚗 Getting There: About 1 hour by car from Krabi Town
Wat Srisoonthorn – Phuket
Wat Srisoonthorn, also known as Wat Lipon, is a historic temple located in Sri Sunthon Subdistrict, Thalang District, Phuket. It was established on April 21, 1789 (B.E. 2332) and spans approximately 22 rai of land.
Highlights ✨
🔻 Reclining Buddha Statue: A prominent feature of the temple is the large reclining Buddha, about 95 feet long, situated on the roof of the sermon hall.
🔻 Ancient Ordination Hall: Built in traditional style, the hall measures 6 meters wide and 12 meters long. Only the back wall is fully enclosed; the other three sides are partially open.
🔻 Phor Than Kah Yee Statue: A respected local monk statue that many locals pray to for blessings and success.
Visitor Information
📍 Location: 20/4 Thepkrasattri Road, Sri Sunthon Subdistrict, Thalang District, Phuket
⌚ Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
💵 Entrance Fee: Free of charge
Big Buddha Temple (Phra Phuttha Ming Mongkol Eknakakiri) – Phuket
Located atop Nak Kerd Hill in Karon, Mueang Phuket District, this revered site is one of the island’s most important landmarks. The Big Buddha is not only a religious attraction but also a panoramic viewpoint offering 360-degree views of Phuket.
Buddha Statue Details
🔻 Seated in the Maravijaya posture (subduing Mara)
🔻 25.45 meters wide at the base
🔻 45 meters tall
🔻 Made of reinforced concrete
🔻 Covered with white Burmese jade marble (135 tons)
The statue was named “Phra Phuttha Mingmongkhon Eknakakiri” by the Supreme Patriarch of Thailand on October 28, 2007.
How to Get There 🚗
From Phuket Town, take Chao Fa West Road past Wat Chalong. About 800 meters beyond the temple, turn right into Soi Yot Saneh and follow the road uphill for around 6 kilometers. The road is paved and accessible by all vehicles, though some sections are steep.
Opening Hours ⌚
Open daily from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM.
Wat Suwan Khuha (Cave Temple) – Phang Nga
Wat Suwan Khuha, also known as “Wat Tham” or the Cave Temple, is located in Krasom Subdistrict, Takua Thung District, Phang Nga Province. It is an ancient temple with historical and religious significance.
Highlights✨
🔻 Reclining Buddha: Inside the main cave lies a large reclining Buddha statue, about 15 meters long.
🔻 Cave system: The temple features several caves, including Tham Yai (Main Cave), Tham Jaeng (Bright Cave), Tham Mued (Dark Cave), Tham Kaew (Crystal Cave), and Tham Bon (Upper Cave), each offering unique experiences.
🔻 Museum zone: Displays over 100 historical items, including royal monograms from kings and royal family members who have visited.
🔻 Monkeys: The temple grounds are home to many monkeys. Visitors can feed them, but should be careful with personal belongings.
Visitor Information
📍 Address: 36/1 Phetkasem Road, Krasom, Takua Thung, Phang Nga
⌚ Opening hours: 08:00 – 17:00
