When does Wat Thamkrabok open?

Wat Thamkrabok is open at various times, check the schedule for details.

Saraburi Attractions

Wat Thamkrabok

Located in Phra Phutthabat District, Saraburi Province, Wat Thamkrabok is a unique temple globally renowned for its herbal drug rehabilitation program. Founded in 1957 amidst the peaceful Prong Prap hills, it serves as both a spiritual sanctuary and a recovery center. Visitors are drawn to its striking landscape, highlighted by massive black Buddha statues crafted from melted volcanic stone.

About this Place

History & Significance

Wat Thamkrabok was established in 1957 as a monastic residence by Luang Pho Yai (Maechi Mian Panchan), Phra Acharn Chamrun Panchan, and Phra Acharn Charoen Panchan. They journeyed from Wat Khlong Mao Thammakoson in Lopburi during a pilgrimage and found the quiet cave area ideal for spiritual practice. In 1970, Phra Acharn Chamrun Panchan began leading the temple's famous drug rehabilitation efforts, which earned him the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award for Public Service on September 10, 1975. The sanctuary was officially recognized as a temple in 2012 and received its consecrated boundary (Wisungkhamsima) in 2015 under the Maha Nikaya sect.

The temple's legendary 15-day rehabilitation program is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for patients. It involves drinking a secret herbal mixture that induces vomiting to detoxify the body, followed by herbal steam baths, Dhamma teachings, and vocational training. Over 100,000 patients from all over the world, including a significant number of European visitors, have been treated here.

Highlights & What to See

Phra Hin Lava (Lava Stone Buddhas): A collection of majestic, pitch-black Buddha statues cast from stone melted at extremely high temperatures. These unique images are enshrined in an open courtyard, set against a dramatic backdrop of rugged, unusually shaped limestone mountains.
King Rama IX Lava Stone Statue: A monumental 32-meter-tall statue of King Rama IX (King Bhumibol Adulyadej) crafted from melted lava stone. It stands as the tallest statue of King Rama IX in existence.

Visitor Information

The temple is open to visitors daily from 08:00 to 17:00. There is no admission fee to enter the temple grounds. Visitors should dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, as it is an active place of worship and rehabilitation.

How to Get There

Wat Thamkrabok is located in Khun Khlon Subdistrict, Phra Phutthabat District, Saraburi Province. It is situated near the Prong Prap mountain range and can be reached by private car or local transport from Saraburi city center.