
Wat Suwan Kuha Phang Nga Thailand
Discover a breathtaking golden reclining Buddha inside a natural cave, a spiritual sanctuary guarded by playful monkeys.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds.

Wat Suwan Kuha Phang Nga Thailand
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a breathtaking golden reclining Buddha inside a natural cave, a spiritual sanctuary guarded by playful monkeys.
"A beautiful cave temple with an interesting history and multiple beautiful statues of the Buddha."

Modest Attire is Key
Cover shoulders & knees. Free scarves available if needed. :scarf:
Secure Your Belongings
Monkeys are playful! Keep valuables safe. :moneybag:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Golden Reclining Buddha
Main Cave
A massive, breathtaking golden reclining Buddha statue within the main cave. Truly awe-inspiring.

The Second Cave
Upstairs from Main Cave
Discover a more beautiful and interesting cave with unique formations and spiritual ambiance.

Cave Temple Experience
Entire Temple Complex
Explore a unique temple built inside a natural limestone cave, blending nature and spirituality.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Code & Respect
Monkey Encounters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Modest Attire is Key
Cover shoulders & knees. Free scarves available if needed. :scarf:
Secure Your Belongings
Monkeys are playful! Keep valuables safe. :moneybag:
Small Entrance Fee
A small fee (around 20 Baht) grants access to the main cave. :ticket:
Explore Both Caves
Don't miss the second, more intricate cave upstairs! :arrow_up:
Tips
from all over the internet
Modest Attire is Key
Cover shoulders & knees. Free scarves available if needed. :scarf:
Secure Your Belongings
Monkeys are playful! Keep valuables safe. :moneybag:
Small Entrance Fee
A small fee (around 20 Baht) grants access to the main cave. :ticket:
Explore Both Caves
Don't miss the second, more intricate cave upstairs! :arrow_up:
Respectful Photography
Photos & videos allowed, but be mindful of sacred areas. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Wat Suwan Kuha for its impressive golden reclining Buddha and the unique experience of a temple within a cave. The natural beauty of the second cave is also a highlight. However, some reviewers note that the temple grounds could benefit from better maintenance and that staff interactions were not always welcoming.
"A beautiful cave temple with an interesting history and multiple beautiful statues of the Buddha, including a huge gold reclining Buddha.
There is a huge main cave area with the reclining Buddha and other icons, and a set of stairs that leads up to a second even more beautiful and interesting cave.
There is a small entrance fee.
For women, be sure to cover your shoulders and wear something that covers your knees. Men can wear shirts, but not sleeveless shirts.
Shoes are allowed inside the cave, but there is one display area that asks you to remove your shoes. Just look for the signs.
Photos and videos are allowed, of course.
There is a large parking lot here and several small shops and cafes.
You can also visit the grounds of the main temple, if you like."
Mark Pitts
"Forget everything from the parking lot to the Temple. Trash. Go inside the cave , pay the 20 Baht entrance fee, and enjoy a fantastic cave. The big sleeping golden Buddha is only part of a great experience. Trained dogs keep the monkeys outside the cave."
Mogens Pedersen
"Wat Suwan Kuha – Impressive Temple, But Needs Better Maintenance
Wat Suwan Kuha is quite an impressive and beautiful temple, especially the large reclining Buddha inside the cave. The natural rock formations and spiritual atmosphere make it a unique place to visit.
However, the cleanliness of the area could be improved. Some parts of the temple grounds felt untidy, and it slightly took away from the overall experience. Also, the staff and attendants were not very welcoming — they seemed unfriendly and unapproachable, which was disappointing for such a sacred and tourist-friendly site.
This place has great potential and is worth seeing, but a bit more attention to service and cleanliness would make it truly outstanding."
Dollaphon Sangubon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Suwan Kuha is often visited as part of tours from Phuket, especially those heading to James Bond Island or Khao Sok National Park. You can also hire a private taxi or rent a scooter for a more independent journey. The drive takes approximately 1-1.5 hours from Phuket.
Yes, it's a well-known landmark in Phang Nga province and is usually signposted. If you're driving, it's located off the main road towards Phang Nga town.
There is a large parking lot available at the temple complex, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car or scooter.
Absolutely! It's a popular stop for day trips from Phuket and Krabi, often combined with other attractions in the Phang Nga region.
While less common for tourists, local buses do travel through Phang Nga. However, for convenience and flexibility, private transport or organized tours are recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a small entrance fee, typically around 20 Baht, to access the main cave area. This fee helps with the upkeep of the temple.
The temple is generally open daily from morning until late afternoon. It's advisable to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the cave's features.
No, advance booking is not usually required for Wat Suwan Kuha. You can pay the entrance fee upon arrival.
The main restriction is the dress code. Visitors must dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
Yes, photography and videography are generally allowed inside the caves, but always be respectful of worshippers and sacred areas.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the impressive golden reclining Buddha inside a large cave. There's also a second, more intricate cave to explore upstairs, along with natural rock formations and smaller Buddha statues.
The monkeys are generally playful and accustomed to visitors. However, it's wise to keep your distance, secure your belongings, and avoid feeding them to prevent any unwanted interactions.
Visitors are required to wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees out of respect for the temple. If you forget, free scarves or sarongs are often available.
Shoes are generally allowed, but you may be asked to remove them in specific display areas. Look for signs indicating where to leave your footwear.
The main cave with the reclining Buddha is accessible. However, reaching the second cave involves stairs, which might be challenging for some.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several small shops and cafes located near the parking lot and temple entrance where you can purchase snacks, drinks, and light meals.
Bringing your own water is recommended, especially on hot days. However, it's best to consume food away from the main temple areas to maintain cleanliness.
The nearby shops typically offer local Thai snacks, refreshing beverages, and simple dishes. For a wider selection, you'd need to visit a restaurant in Phang Nga town.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden reclining Buddha is a must-capture. The entrance to the main cave, the natural rock formations, and the view from the second cave also offer great photographic opportunities.
Yes, photography and videography are generally permitted inside the caves. However, always be mindful and respectful of the sacred nature of the site.
Morning light can be beautiful inside the cave, offering softer illumination. However, the grandeur of the Buddha can be appreciated at any time.
Drone usage is typically not permitted at religious sites in Thailand. It's best to assume it's not allowed to avoid any issues.
While tempting, it's not recommended to actively seek photos with the monkeys, especially if it involves feeding them or getting too close, as it can lead to unpredictable behavior.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Bring plenty of water, ensure everyone adheres to the modest dress code (scarves can be fun for kids to wear!), and keep a close watch on little ones around the monkeys. The small entrance fee is also budget-friendly for families. Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the peak heat and crowds.
💰 Budget Travelers
If you're traveling independently, renting a scooter or using local transport can be economical ways to reach the temple. Pack your own snacks and water to save on costs at the onsite cafes. The sheer visual impact of the cave and the reclining Buddha offers significant value for the minimal cost.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
For the best shots, consider visiting in the morning for softer light. Be mindful of the dress code and respectful of worshippers. While photos are allowed, avoid intrusive flash photography in sensitive areas. The contrast between the man-made Buddha and the natural cave environment makes for compelling imagery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Heart: Inside the Caves
Visitors often remark on the unique blend of natural beauty and religious significance. The cool, cavernous interiors provide a welcome respite from the tropical heat, while the spiritual ambiance encourages quiet contemplation. Remember to dress respectfully, as this is an active place of worship. The small entrance fee contributes to the preservation of these incredible natural and spiritual spaces.
The Playful Residents: Temple Monkeys
While the monkeys are accustomed to people, it's crucial to remember they are wild animals. Travelers advise keeping a close eye on your belongings, as the monkeys are known to be curious and quick to snatch unattended items like sunglasses, water bottles, or even snacks. Avoid feeding the monkeys, as this can encourage bolder behavior and disrupt their natural diet. Trained dogs are sometimes present to help keep the monkeys outside the main cave areas, ensuring a more peaceful experience inside.
A Stop on the Tourist Trail
Its location makes it a perfect addition to a day trip, offering a break from boat tours or jungle treks. Many tour operators highlight it as a must-see for its distinctive cave temple setting and the chance to encounter local wildlife. If you're planning a tour of Phang Nga, chances are Wat Suwan Kuha will be on your itinerary.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit