Wat Ban Tham (Dragon Temple)
Explore a temple shaped like a dragon, climb through its belly, and enjoy breathtaking river views from the summit.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Wat Ban Tham (Dragon Temple)
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a temple shaped like a dragon, climb through its belly, and enjoy breathtaking river views from the summit.
"This temple is so cool! It feels more like an amusement park."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of steps! You'll need good grip and support for the climb up the dragon and to the summit.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The climb can be strenuous, especially in the heat. Bring water to keep yourself refreshed.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dragon's Mouth Entrance
Base of the temple
Step into the belly of the beast! This iconic entrance is the start of your journey through the temple's unique design.
Cave of Mythological Paintings
Inside the dragon's body
Explore a cave adorned with 1995 mythological paintings, offering a glimpse into local lore and art.
Summit Viewpoint
Top of the hill
Reach the peak for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Kanchanaburi landscape and the Kwai River.
Golden Stupa
Near the summit
A beautiful golden stupa awaits at the top, offering a serene spot for reflection amidst the stunning scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Dragon's Ascent
Embrace the Unique Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of steps! You'll need good grip and support for the climb up the dragon and to the summit.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The climb can be strenuous, especially in the heat. Bring water to keep yourself refreshed.
🚶♀️ Explore the Caves
Don't miss the smaller caves along the path, especially the one near the top with a helpful rope.
🐶 Friendly Dogs
You'll likely encounter friendly dogs at the parking area; they're known to be welcoming.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of steps! You'll need good grip and support for the climb up the dragon and to the summit.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The climb can be strenuous, especially in the heat. Bring water to keep yourself refreshed.
🚶♀️ Explore the Caves
Don't miss the smaller caves along the path, especially the one near the top with a helpful rope.
🐶 Friendly Dogs
You'll likely encounter friendly dogs at the parking area; they're known to be welcoming.
💰 Free Entry
Enjoy the unique experience without an entrance fee. Donations are welcome.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique 'dragon' design and the rewarding panoramic views from the summit. The free entry is a major plus. However, some note that the temple grounds could be better maintained, and the climb is quite strenuous.
"Around 2km hike. 1st part is very easy and end with a big cave. If you go higher you can see the whole area. Very beautiful scenary. Entrance free and very good people in the starting point. Not very famous tourist attraction. But if you like hiking this is a good place in kanchanaburi."
Ramesh Nadeesha
"We came here on 26 July 2025.
Lots of steps up to the dragon’s cave. Wear comfortable shoes. Unfortunately the temple area is not well maintained. Many parts can be improved."
Christopher Law
"Lovely temple with many steps especially if you go right to the top but the views are worth the climb. Take a slight detour near the very top to go into another smaller cave. There's a rope to help you get down to the stairs. Worth the extra few minutes."
Robert Speller
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Ban Tham is located about 15-20 km from Kanchanaburi town. You can hire a taxi or a songthaew (shared taxi) to get there. Renting a scooter is also a popular option for exploring the area at your own pace.
Yes, there is parking available at the front of the temple. It's usually easy to find a spot, especially if you arrive outside of peak hours.
While it's a bit of a journey, it's possible to visit Wat Ban Tham as a long day trip from Bangkok, especially if you combine it with other attractions in Kanchanaburi. However, an overnight stay is recommended to fully enjoy the region.
Many travelers opt for renting a scooter for flexibility. Alternatively, songthaews and taxis are readily available for hire.
Public transport options might be limited and require transfers. Hiring a private taxi or songthaew is generally more convenient for reaching Wat Ban Tham directly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the entrance to Wat Ban Tham is free! While there's no admission fee, donations are appreciated to help with the temple's upkeep.
The temple is generally open from early morning until late afternoon. Visiting later in the afternoon can mean fewer crowds and shops being closed.
No advance booking is necessary as there is no entrance fee. You can visit anytime during opening hours.
As it is a religious site, visitors are expected to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees. Be mindful of the stairs and uneven terrain.
The temple is typically open during daylight hours. Visiting late afternoon is recommended for fewer crowds, but it's best to check local information for specific closing times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore Wat Ban Tham, especially if you plan to climb to the summit and explore the caves. The hike itself can take a significant portion of this time.
The hike involves approximately 900 steps and takes you through the dragon's mouth, caves, and a bamboo forest to the summit. It's a unique and rewarding climb.
Basic facilities like restrooms are usually available, though their condition might vary. It's always a good idea to use facilities before you start your climb.
Children can enjoy the adventure of climbing through the dragon and exploring the caves, but the steep stairs might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.
The summit offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Kwai River and the lush green countryside of Kanchanaburi.
📸 📸 Photography
The dragon's mouth entrance, the cave paintings, the golden stupa, and the panoramic views from the summit are all fantastic photo opportunities. 
It can be dimly lit inside the cave, so a good camera or smartphone with low-light capabilities is helpful. Be mindful of other visitors when taking photos.
Late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, which can be ideal for photography. Early morning can also provide beautiful light before it gets too hot.
Drone usage is generally restricted at religious sites in Thailand. It's best to assume drones are not permitted to avoid any issues.
From the summit, you can capture sweeping vistas of the river, the town, and the surrounding natural beauty of Kanchanaburi.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be prepared for the significant number of stairs. While the climb is rewarding, it might be challenging for very young children or those who tire easily. Bringing plenty of water and taking breaks is essential. The friendly dogs at the parking area are also a nice touch for animal-loving kids.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Consider renting a scooter for maximum flexibility and affordability if you're comfortable riding. Otherwise, negotiating a price with a songthaew or taxi for a round trip can be a cost-effective option. Pack your own snacks and water to save on potential vendor costs.
👟 Active Adventurers
It's a fantastic way to get some exercise while exploring a unique cultural site. Wear your most comfortable athletic shoes and be prepared for a rewarding physical challenge. The panoramic views from the top are your well-earned prize. Don't forget to explore the smaller caves along the path for added adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Dragon Temple Experience
The journey begins with climbing stairs that lead you through the dragon's body. Inside, you'll discover a cave adorned with 1995 mythological paintings, a fascinating display of local art and beliefs. The path continues upwards, winding through natural caves and a bamboo forest, culminating at the summit. This ascent is often described as a hike, involving a significant number of steps, making comfortable footwear essential.
Reaching the top rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the Kanchanaburi region, including the serene Kwai River. A golden stupa also marks the peak, providing a peaceful spot for reflection. While not as famous as some other Thai temples, its distinctive architecture and the rewarding climb make Wat Ban Tham a memorable stop for those seeking a more adventurous cultural experience.
Navigating the Climb and Views
This climb takes you through various sections, starting with the dragon's mouth and leading into caves and natural formations. It's important to wear appropriate footwear, as the stairs can be steep and sometimes uneven. Travelers recommend taking your time and enjoying the journey. There are opportunities to explore smaller caves along the way, with one near the summit even featuring a rope to assist with descent.
Visiting in the late afternoon can be advantageous, as it often means fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, making the climb more comfortable. While the temple itself is free to enter, the physical exertion required for the climb is a significant aspect of the visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit