
Wat Khao Phra Khru
A serene temple atop a hill offering breathtaking city and sea views, featuring a unique crystal globe and Naga sculpture.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best views and cooler temperatures

Wat Khao Phra Khru
Best Time
Best views and cooler temperatures

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene temple atop a hill offering breathtaking city and sea views, featuring a unique crystal globe and Naga sculpture.
"Worth finding for the great views across Si Racha from the terraces."

🚗 Drive or Ride Up
The hill is steep; driving or riding up is recommended to save energy for exploring.
🐒 Watch for Monkeys
Mischievous monkeys inhabit the area and will try to steal unsecured items. Secure your belongings!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City & Sea Views
Terrace viewpoint
Breathtaking vistas of Si Racha city and the sea, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.

Dragon & Crystal Globe Sculpture
Main terrace
A unique crystal globe nestled within a Naga (serpent) sculpture, offering an upside-down reflection of the city.

Colorful Decorations & Buddha Statue
Terrace
Vibrant outdoor space adorned with colorful decorations, including a Buddha statue, creating a lively atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: The Steep Climb
Best Time for Views & Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive or Ride Up
The hill is steep; driving or riding up is recommended to save energy for exploring.
🐒 Watch for Monkeys
Mischievous monkeys inhabit the area and will try to steal unsecured items. Secure your belongings!
🧘♀️ Peaceful Meditation Spot
A calm and quiet temple, ideal for meditation and reflection amidst nature.
✨ Make Merit
You can 'make merit' at the shrine and receive blessings from the monks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive or Ride Up
The hill is steep; driving or riding up is recommended to save energy for exploring.
🐒 Watch for Monkeys
Mischievous monkeys inhabit the area and will try to steal unsecured items. Secure your belongings!
🧘♀️ Peaceful Meditation Spot
A calm and quiet temple, ideal for meditation and reflection amidst nature.
✨ Make Merit
You can 'make merit' at the shrine and receive blessings from the monks.
♿️ Handicap Accessible
An elevator is available to reach the top, making it accessible for all visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Wat Khao Phra Khru for its serene atmosphere, stunning panoramic views of Si Racha and the sea, and unique attractions like the Naga and crystal globe. The temple is clean, calm, and welcoming, with accessible facilities. However, the steep climb and the presence of mischievous monkeys are frequently mentioned drawbacks.
"Samnaksong Khao Phra is a peaceful and quiet place surrounded by nature. It’s clean, calm, and perfect for meditation or short visits. The atmosphere is relaxing and the monks are very kind and welcoming.
perfect time to visit morning or evening."
Manohar c.r
"Cool place to visit. Try to drive here and it is a very steep walk up the hill."
John
"Walking up the hill is a little tiring. Advice to drive or ride up. Short few hundred meter.
I walk up but I think it worth it."
How Joel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Khao Phra Khru is located in Sriracha, Chonburi. While it's about a 30-minute drive from Pattaya, the final approach involves a steep hill. Many visitors suggest driving or riding a motorcycle directly to the temple to avoid a strenuous walk.
Yes, parking is available right next to the entrance at the top of the hill, so you don't need to walk up from the base.
Some visitors find the small, steep road leading up to the temple tricky to locate and may miss it on the first attempt. Keep an eye out for signs or use GPS carefully.
From Pattaya, you can hire a taxi or rent a scooter. The drive is approximately 30 minutes. Remember to factor in the steep climb to the temple itself.
Public transport options directly to the temple are limited. It's generally easier to reach by private vehicle or a hired taxi/songthaew from nearby areas like Sriracha or Pattaya.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no mention of an entrance fee for Wat Khao Phra Khru. It is generally considered a free-access temple and viewpoint.
The temple and viewpoint are typically open throughout the day, but it's best to visit during daylight hours for the best views and a peaceful experience. Mornings and evenings are particularly recommended.
Yes, the temple is handicap-friendly. An accessible elevator is available to take visitors up to the top viewpoint.
As it is a Buddhist temple, it's advisable to dress respectfully. This means covering your shoulders and knees. While not strictly enforced for tourists at the viewpoint, it's good practice.
Visitors can 'make merit' at the shrine, which often involves a donation and receiving a blessing from a monk.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The main terrace offers stunning panoramic views of the city and sea, perfect for landscape shots. The unique crystal globe sculpture and the Naga statues are also popular subjects.
Yes, the viewpoint is highly recommended for sunset photos, offering a beautiful backdrop of the city lights and the sea as the sun goes down.
This refers to a large crystal globe placed within a Naga sculpture. The globe reflects the city and sky in an inverted image, creating a unique photographic opportunity.
While some videos show drone footage, it's always best to check local regulations regarding drone usage at temples and public spaces in Thailand.
You'll get expansive views of the city of Si Racha, the coastline, and the sea. It's a great spot to get a sense of the local landscape.
🎫 🐒 Wildlife Encounters
Yes, the temple is known for its population of mischievous monkeys. They are known to approach visitors and try to steal food or shiny objects.
Keep all your belongings secured and out of sight. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry or carrying open bags. Some visitors have reported monkeys trying to bite motorcycle seats!
Some reports mention temple staff using BB guns to try and deter the monkeys, but it's best to rely on your own vigilance.
While they can be bold and opportunistic, they are generally not aggressive unless provoked or trying to snatch something. Be cautious and maintain a safe distance.
Besides monkeys, the area is surrounded by nature. You might also see various birds. The temple also features a pond with brightly colored goldfish.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be extra cautious about the mischievous monkeys. Keep a close eye on children and ensure all snacks and shiny items are securely stored to prevent any unwanted encounters. Visiting during the cooler morning or evening hours will make the outing more comfortable for everyone.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Backpackers
Be prepared for the steep climb if you choose to walk, or opt for a motorbike taxi. Keep your valuables secure due to the monkeys. The opportunity to 'make merit' and interact briefly with monks can be a meaningful cultural experience.
📸 Photographers & View Seekers
Experiment with different angles to capture the cityscapes, the coastline, and the intricate details of the temple's decorations. The upside-down reflection in the crystal globe is a must-try for unique perspectives. Remember to be mindful of the monkeys, as they can be a distraction or even a hazard to your equipment if not secured.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Naga and Crystal Globe
The Naga is a prominent figure in Buddhist and Hindu mythology, often depicted as a guardian. Its presence here, combined with the modern element of the crystal globe, creates a memorable and somewhat surreal experience for visitors. The intricate carvings and vibrant colors surrounding this centerpiece add to its allure.
This particular sculpture has become a signature element of Wat Khao Phra Khru, drawing visitors who are intrigued by its symbolism and photographic potential. It stands out as a unique attraction that sets this temple apart from others.
Navigating the Steep Ascent and Monkey Encounters
A significant aspect of visiting Wat Khao Phra Khru is the presence of mischievous monkeys. These primates are known to be bold and will attempt to steal anything unsecured, from food to personal belongings. Visitors are urged to be vigilant and keep all items securely stored. Some accounts even mention monkeys damaging motorcycle seats in their attempts to snatch items.
Despite the challenges of the climb and the monkey encounters, the temple's serene atmosphere and stunning views make the effort worthwhile for many. The temple staff are aware of the monkey situation and may employ deterrents, but visitor caution remains the best defense.
A Sanctuary of Peace and Views
Visitors often highlight the cleanliness and calming atmosphere of the temple grounds. The monks are noted for being kind and welcoming, contributing to the overall positive and relaxing experience. The temple is a place where one can 'make merit' and receive blessings, adding a spiritual dimension to the visit.
The best times to visit are in the morning or evening, when the temperatures are cooler and the light is ideal for photography. These times also tend to be less crowded, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the temple's peaceful ambiance and breathtaking vistas.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit