Wat Tham Khao Wong

History & Significance

Originally established as "Dhamma Sathan Tham Khao Wong," the site was discovered by Luang Pho Sanong Katapunyo, the abbot of Wat Sangkhathan in Nonthaburi, during a pilgrimage with his disciples. Attracted by the surrounding mountains, caves, and a seasonal waterfall, they stayed for a few days. Later, his disciple Luang Pho Bunsong Piyatammo visited multiple times and requested permission in 1985 to develop the site into a Dhamma practice center. Initially, monks lived in caves and simple thatch-roofed huts. In 1987, the center was moved down from the mountain for convenience after Mr. Thong Lekyan donated land. Construction of the multi-purpose Thai-style pavilion began around 1993–1994. Due to economic challenges and rising material costs, the abbot creatively integrated natural materials like tree roots, stumps, and fire-damaged wood into the structures. The temple was officially established on December 19, 2005.

Highlights & What to See

The main highlight is the extraordinary four-story Thai-style wooden building. Built from teak and Makha wood, it incorporates old wood from traditional houses in Ayutthaya and Ang Thong. The roof materials were sourced from Lamphun, while skilled artisans from Ayutthaya assembled the structure and crafted the traditional decorative elements. The building is organized as follows:

• First Floor: Multi-purpose area and shops.
• Second Floor: Viharn (shrine hall).
• Third Floor: Kuti (monks' quarters).
• Fourth Floor: Ubosot (ordination hall).

In front of the temple lies a large pond with a unique wooden bridge assembled from natural, unshaped wood pieces, offering a picturesque view of the wooden pavilion. Behind the building, a limestone mountain features 7 to 8 caves, some used for meditation, some inhabited by bats, and others showcasing natural stalactites and stalagmites.

Visitor Information

Wat Tham Khao Wong is open daily from 08:00 to 18:00. Admission is free. Visitors should dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, as it is an active place of worship and meditation. Facilities include parking and restrooms.

How to Get There

Located in Ban Rai Subdistrict, Ban Rai District, Uthai Thani Province. Visitors can travel by private car to Ban Rai District, following local signs to Wat Tham Khao Wong.