
Wat Tham Khao Pun
Explore a unique cave temple with 9 chambers filled with Buddha statues, natural formations, and WWII history.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace

Wat Tham Khao Pun
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a unique cave temple with 9 chambers filled with Buddha statues, natural formations, and WWII history.
"A fascinating blend of natural beauty, religious significance, and historical interest."

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cave floors can be slippery and uneven. Good grip is essential for exploring the chambers safely. :athletic_shoe:
👃 Embrace the Bat Aroma
The cave is home to bats, so expect a unique smell. It's part of the natural experience! :bat:

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.4 · 607 reviews
Type
Place of Worship
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Nine Chambers of Wonder
Inside the cave
Explore nine rooms filled with Buddha statues, Hindu shrines, and natural rock formations. A journey through faith and nature.

Live Bat Colony
Cave interior
Witness a colony of bats in their natural habitat. A unique, albeit sometimes pungent, part of the cave experience.

World War II History
Cave exterior and nearby hut
Discover remnants of its past as a hospital for Japanese soldiers and see POW artifacts. A poignant historical layer.

Scenic River Kwai Views
Near the temple entrance/cafes
Enjoy breathtaking views of the River Kwai and surrounding mountains from nearby cafes and overlooks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Bats (and the Smell!)
Early Bird Gets the Peace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cave floors can be slippery and uneven. Good grip is essential for exploring the chambers safely. :athletic_shoe:
👃 Embrace the Bat Aroma
The cave is home to bats, so expect a unique smell. It's part of the natural experience! :bat:
💰 Small Entrance Fee
There's a nominal entrance fee (around 30 baht) for the cave. Cash is recommended. :moneywithwings:
🙏 Dress Respectfully
As a religious site, modest dress is appreciated. Cover shoulders and knees. 🙏
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cave floors can be slippery and uneven. Good grip is essential for exploring the chambers safely. :athletic_shoe:
👃 Embrace the Bat Aroma
The cave is home to bats, so expect a unique smell. It's part of the natural experience! :bat:
💰 Small Entrance Fee
There's a nominal entrance fee (around 30 baht) for the cave. Cash is recommended. :moneywithwings:
🙏 Dress Respectfully
As a religious site, modest dress is appreciated. Cover shoulders and knees. 🙏
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
While lit, a flashlight helps illuminate the intricate details of statues and formations. 🔦
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Wat Tham Khao Pun is a unique cave temple with a fascinating blend of religious artifacts, natural formations, and WWII history. Visitors appreciate the spiritual atmosphere and the novelty of exploring the nine chambers, though some note the cave's upkeep could be improved and the smell from the resident bats can be strong.
"Entry fees: 30 baht. If you are looking for a beginner friendly cave, this is likely a good choice with good lighting, although it might still be challenging for the elderly."
Gary Chia
"Excellent cave with actual live bats in. The tunnels through are a bit tight in places so if of a larger frame or with mobility problems then don’t go further than first cave.
It was worth 30 baht entrance fee.
Now the bad points. The site is very neglected and run down. The toilets were not good and again rubbish everywhere."
jason moore
"Wat Tham Khao Pun is a fascinating temple with a unique blend of natural beauty, religious significance, and historical interest. Here's a deeper dive into what makes it so special:
A Cave Temple Unlike Any Other
* Nine Rooms of Wonder: The heart of Wat Tham Khao Pun lies within a cave, divided into nine distinct chambers. Each room is a treasure trove of Buddhist and Hindu shrines, statues, and natural rock formations. As you explore, you'll encounter reclining Buddhas, intricate carvings, and hidden corners that spark curiosity.
* A Journey Through Faith and Nature: The cave's passageways wind and twist, leading you through a labyrinth of dimly lit corridors. Stalactites hang from the ceiling, and the air is filled with a sense of mystery and tranquility. It's an experience that engages your senses and invites contemplation.
Historical Echoes
* World War II Hospital: During World War II, the temple served as a hospital for Japanese soldiers. This historical layer adds another dimension to the temple, reminding visitors of the region's past struggles and resilience.
* Prisoner of War Remnants: Outside the cave, a small hut displays poignant reminders of the war, including photos of prisoners of war and old typewriters. These artifacts serve as a somber tribute to those who suffered during the conflict.
A Must-See in Kanchanaburi
* Popular Tourist Destination: Wat Tham Khao Pun is a popular stop on boat tours along the River Kwai. Its accessibility and unique features make it a must-see for visitors to Kanchanaburi.
* A Spiritual and Cultural Experience: Whether you're interested in history, religion, or simply exploring a beautiful natural wonder, Wat Tham Khao Pun offers something for everyone. It's a place where you can connect with the past, find peace in the present, and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of Thailand.
Additional Tips for Your Visit
* Wear comfortable shoes: The cave's passageways can be slippery and uneven, so comfortable shoes are essential.
* Dress respectfully: As a religious site, it's important to dress modestly when visiting Wat Tham Khao Pun.
* Bring a flashlight: While the cave is lit, a flashlight can help you see the details of the shrines and rock formations.
* Take your time: Allow yourself plenty of time to explore the cave and soak in the atmosphere.
Let me know if you'd like to learn more about the specific shrines or historical artifacts found at Wat Tham Khao Pun!"
Kevin Kins
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Tham Khao Pun is conveniently located about 20 minutes from Kanchanaburi town. You can reach it by private car, taxi, or as part of a boat tour on the River Kwai. Many visitors opt for a longtail boat tour which includes this as a stop.
Yes, parking is generally good and easy to find near the temple entrance. This makes it accessible for those arriving by private vehicle.
While specific bus routes might be less direct, local songthaews (shared taxis) or private taxis are more common and convenient ways to reach the temple from Kanchanaburi town.
Absolutely! It's a popular stop on many River Kwai boat tours, offering a hassle-free way to visit along with other attractions.
Many visitors enjoy arriving early to have the place to themselves. Combining it with a scenic boat trip on the River Kwai is also highly recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a small entrance fee, typically around 30 Thai Baht per person, for access to the cave system. It's a very affordable price for a unique experience.
No advance booking is usually required for Wat Tham Khao Pun. You can purchase tickets upon arrival at the entrance to the cave.
The temple and cave are generally open during daylight hours. It's best to visit in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler temperatures.
Yes, as it is a religious site, modest dress is recommended. Please ensure your shoulders and knees are covered out of respect.
The cave can be narrow and challenging in places, especially for those with mobility issues or of larger frame. It's advisable to explore only the initial chambers if you have concerns.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the cave. However, be mindful of other visitors and the sacred nature of the site. Flash photography might be discouraged in certain areas.
The nine chambers themselves offer unique photographic opportunities with Buddha statues and natural formations. The scenic overlooks near the temple, especially with the River Kwai in view, are also great for photos.
The cave is dimly lit, which can create a mystical atmosphere for photos. Bringing a flashlight can help capture details, but be aware of the natural lighting conditions.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the vicinity of temples and historical sites.
While not explicitly stated, it's always respectful to avoid intrusive photography, especially of religious artifacts or during prayer times. Be mindful of the bats as well.
🎫 🦇 Wildlife & Nature
Yes, the cave is known for its resident bat colony. This is a significant natural feature of the cave, though it contributes to a distinct smell.
Many visitors note a strong smell due to the bats and their droppings. While it can be off-putting for some, it's considered part of the authentic cave experience.
The bats themselves are generally not dangerous if left undisturbed. It's important to maintain a respectful distance and avoid provoking them.
The cave features natural limestone formations, including stalactites hanging from the ceiling, adding to the mystical ambiance of the chambers.
Children can explore the cave, but parents should be aware of the narrow passages and the presence of bats. The initial chambers are generally more accessible for younger visitors.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit