Wat Tham Khao Noi
A serene Chinese-style Buddhist temple in Kanchanaburi, offering stunning river views and intricate architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene vibes
Wat Tham Khao Noi
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene vibes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Chinese-style Buddhist temple in Kanchanaburi, offering stunning river views and intricate architecture.
"A hidden marvel with breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful escape."
🚶♀️ Climb for the Views
The stairs offer a rewarding climb with stunning vistas. Consider it part of the experience!
🚠 Cable Car Option
If stairs aren't your preference, a cable car provides an easier ascent to the top.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic River Views
Temple Summit
Breathtaking vistas of the Kwai River and surrounding lush greenery await at the top.
Intricate Chinese Architecture
Temple Entrance and Interior
Admire the unique Chinese-style design, gilded statues, and detailed sculptures.
Serene Atmosphere
Throughout the Temple
Experience a tranquil and spiritual haven, often with fewer crowds than nearby attractions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Embrace the Climb (or Cable Car)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Climb for the Views
The stairs offer a rewarding climb with stunning vistas. Consider it part of the experience!
🚠 Cable Car Option
If stairs aren't your preference, a cable car provides an easier ascent to the top.
🤫 Seek Solitude
This temple is often quieter than Wat Tham Suea, offering a more peaceful visit.
🙏 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as it is a place of worship.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Climb for the Views
The stairs offer a rewarding climb with stunning vistas. Consider it part of the experience!
🚠 Cable Car Option
If stairs aren't your preference, a cable car provides an easier ascent to the top.
🤫 Seek Solitude
This temple is often quieter than Wat Tham Suea, offering a more peaceful visit.
🙏 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as it is a place of worship.
✨ Lucky Bracelets
Some visitors receive bracelets for good luck and protection.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Wat Tham Khao Noi for its stunning Chinese-style architecture, peaceful ambiance, and breathtaking panoramic views from the summit. Many appreciate its quieter nature compared to nearby attractions, making it a serene spiritual escape. Some note the challenging climb but highlight the rewarding views and the availability of a cable car.
"Tham Khao Noi Temple is a beautiful Chinese-style Buddhist temple in Kanchanaburi Province. The atmosphere is very peaceful and pleasant. I visited the top of the temple, and the view from there was amazing. It’s a short walk up the stairs, but there is also a cable car option. I chose to walk up the steps and really enjoyed the calm surroundings. It’s a nice and peaceful place to visit."
Shankar M
"Nestled beside the Tiger Temple in Kanchanaburi is the hidden marvel of Wat Tham Khao Noi, a Chinese-style Buddhist temple that caught my eye during my visit. Although it's not directly accessible from the Tiger Temple, my curiosity led me to venture down from the Tiger Temple to explore this intriguing site.
The entrance to Wat Tham Khao Noi is a feast for the eyes, adorned with beautiful details that set the tone for the cultural richness within. As I ascended the temple, I found myself increasingly enamored with the surroundings. The architectural beauty, combined with the presence of intricate sculptures, created an atmosphere of tranquility, making me feel transported to a serene and spiritual haven.
Climbing to the temple's summit proved to be a rewarding endeavor. Not only did it offer a breathtaking panoramic view of the landscapes surrounding the temple, but it also provided a unique vantage point to appreciate the Tiger Temple from a different perspective. The climb, though a bit challenging, added a sense of accomplishment to my visit.
For those willing to embrace a bit of physical activity, Wat Tham Khao Noi promises an unforgettable experience. The serene environment, coupled with the temple's architectural grandeur and the sweeping vistas, make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the cultural and spiritual treasures of Kanchanaburi. Whether you're an avid adventurer or simply seeking a tranquil escape, this Chinese-style Buddhist temple offers a memorable and enriching excursion that lingers in the heart and mind."
Prathamesh Pawar
"It is next to the Wat Tham Suea, but not part of the same complex. This means that all the tourists stick to the other one, leaving Wat Tham Khao Noi completely empty for you to discover. We looked lost so a monk showed us the way and guided us all the way to the top, with some absolutely stunning views. Great experience!"
Quer Ruhí Rubio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Tham Khao Noi is located near Wat Tham Suea. You can hire a taxi or a songthaew (shared taxi) from Kanchanaburi town. Many visitors combine a visit to both temples.
No, they are separate complexes, though located very close to each other. You'll need to venture down from Wat Tham Suea to reach Wat Tham Khao Noi.
While direct public transport might be limited, you can take a bus from Kanchanaburi to the general area and then a short taxi ride. Hiring a private driver for the day to visit multiple sites is also a popular option.
It's a short walk down the hill from Wat Tham Suea to Wat Tham Khao Noi. Alternatively, you can arrange for transport to pick you up or drop you off at each location.
Yes, there are parking areas available for visitors arriving by car or motorbike.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entrance fee to visit Wat Tham Khao Noi. Donations are welcome to help with the temple's upkeep.
The temple is typically open from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's advisable to check local listings or visit during daylight hours for the best experience.
No, advance booking is not required as there is usually no admission fee. You can visit spontaneously.
Yes, it's a Buddhist temple, so modest dress is required. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered out of respect.
You can visit during festivals, but expect larger crowds, especially during Thai holidays like Songkran.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find beautiful Chinese-style architecture, gilded statues, intricate sculptures, and stunning panoramic views from the summit.
A visit can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend admiring the views and architecture, and whether you take the stairs or cable car.
There are many steps, which can be challenging for some. However, the views are very rewarding. A cable car is available for those who prefer not to climb.
Basic restroom facilities are usually available for visitors.
This refers to a specific statue within the temple that has a unique legend associated with it, adding to the temple's mystique.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic shots of the river and landscape. The temple's intricate facade and gilded statues are also highly photogenic.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but it's always respectful to be mindful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography inside prayer halls.
Late afternoon, especially during the golden hour, provides beautiful lighting for both the temple architecture and the landscape views.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and temple policies before flying a drone to avoid any issues.
Look for the ornate roof details, the vibrant colors of the statues, and the unique blend of Thai and Chinese artistic influences.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the climb up the stairs might be too much for very young children, the overall atmosphere is peaceful. It's a good opportunity to teach children about different cultures and religious sites. Remember to dress modestly to ensure everyone is comfortable and respectful.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Backpackers
The availability of a cable car is a plus for those looking to save time and energy. The temple's relative quietness makes it ideal for photography enthusiasts seeking unique shots without too many people in the frame.
+1📸 Photographers
The temple's distinct Chinese architecture, with its vibrant colors and intricate details, provides ample opportunities for close-up shots. The gilded statues and ornate decorations are particularly photogenic.
+1 The quieter nature of this temple compared to its neighbor means you're more likely to get clear shots without photobombers. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Blend of Cultures
+1Some sources suggest a connection to Vietnamese origins, adding another layer to its cultural significance.
This blend of influences makes it a fascinating site for those interested in religious art and history, offering a different perspective on Buddhism in Thailand. Visitors often remark on the peaceful and pleasant atmosphere, which is enhanced by the temple's unique aesthetic. It provides a serene escape and a chance to appreciate a less common architectural style in the region.
The Rewarding Ascent and Views
For those who prefer to conserve energy or have mobility limitations, a cable car service is available. This ensures that everyone can enjoy the spectacular vistas without the strenuous climb.
The journey to the top is not just about the destination; it's also about the experience of ascending and the sense of accomplishment. The calm surroundings during the climb further enhance the peaceful nature of the visit.
A Quieter Neighbor to the Tiger Temple
While not part of the same complex, the two temples are located very close to each other, making it easy to visit both in a single trip.
This relative quietude allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the serene environment and appreciate the temple's architectural beauty and spiritual ambiance at their own pace.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit