Khao Luang Cave Phetchaburi
A mystical cave temple where sunlight beams illuminate countless Buddha statues amidst stunning limestone formations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
For the best sunlight beams
Khao Luang Cave Phetchaburi
Best Time
For the best sunlight beams
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A mystical cave temple where sunlight beams illuminate countless Buddha statues amidst stunning limestone formations.
"The sunlight streaming through the cave looks amazing and is great for photos!"
🎯 Catch the Sunbeams
Visit in the morning for the iconic sunlight shafts illuminating the cave.
🐒 Monkey Alert!
Be cautious of monkeys near the entrance; they can be aggressive if you have food.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunlight Beams
Inside the cave
Sunlight streams through ceiling openings, illuminating Buddha statues and creating a mystical atmosphere.
Buddha Statues Galore
Throughout the cave
Numerous Buddha images, from small shrines to a striking 4-meter statue, adorn the cave's natural formations.
Limestone Formations
Cave walls and ceiling
Marvel at the natural beauty of stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over centuries within the cave.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for That Golden Light
Monkeys and More: Be Prepared
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Catch the Sunbeams
Visit in the morning for the iconic sunlight shafts illuminating the cave.
🐒 Monkey Alert!
Be cautious of monkeys near the entrance; they can be aggressive if you have food.
👟 Easy Access, Steep Descent
The walk down is short but steep. Suitable for most, but take care if mobility is an issue.
💰 Tiny Entrance Fee
Entry is very affordable at just 10 Baht per person.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Catch the Sunbeams
Visit in the morning for the iconic sunlight shafts illuminating the cave.
🐒 Monkey Alert!
Be cautious of monkeys near the entrance; they can be aggressive if you have food.
👟 Easy Access, Steep Descent
The walk down is short but steep. Suitable for most, but take care if mobility is an issue.
💰 Tiny Entrance Fee
Entry is very affordable at just 10 Baht per person.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The interplay of light and shadow makes it a photographer's dream.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the magical sunlight beams and the peaceful, unique atmosphere of Khao Luang Cave. It's praised for its affordability, historical significance, and stunning photo opportunities. Some note the steep descent and the presence of monkeys near the entrance as minor considerations.
"If you ask me whether it’s worth travelling for 3 hours from Bangkok to this cave I think it’s not worth it at all. Probably I have seen nicer and more majestic cave, but anyhow for those who still wish to come here can always do so as this is based on my personal view.
In the morning I took grab from the hotel to Mo Chit 2 / Chatuchak bus station. Went to the ticket counter to enquire for the bus ticket. From Mo Chit / Chatuchak bus station to Phetchaburi bus station and the ticket price is 246 baht.
Ticket counter will require you show them your passport if you are a foreigner.
Return from Petchaburi bus station to Mo Chit 2 / Chatuchak bus station is cheaper at 140 baht.
Entrance fee to the cave is only 10 baht."
Carol Yee
"It's nice, when you like caves and Buddha's.
The cave itself has mostly one relatively big "room" with a nice hole in the ceiling, where the sun shines through. It's a pretty sight.
Aside from that there are a lot of Buddha statues in the cave.
All around it is not super special, but since it is only 10 Baht, and really not far from the centre of Phetchaburi, I think you should give it a try, when you are around.
Oh there are apes here, too."
Robin Hüwener
"Tham Khao Luang is a hidden historic cave that beautifully blends natural wonder with cultural and spiritual significance. Located in the hills of Phetchaburi, the cave houses a serene temple filled with Buddha statues, including a large reclining Buddha, all illuminated by natural light streaming through a large cave’s opening above.
It’s a peaceful spot that appeals to a wide range of visitors — whether you're drawn by the natural cave formations, the historic royal connections, or the spiritual atmosphere. The site is well-maintained, and the walk down into the cave is manageable for most visitors.
Highly recommended for those looking to explore a lesser-known but deeply meaningful destination in Thailand."
Krisana Varanyuwatana
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Khao Luang Cave is about a 2-hour drive south of Bangkok, making it a feasible day trip or a stop en route to Hua Hin. 
While driving is the most convenient, you can reach Phetchaburi by bus or train from Bangkok. From Phetchaburi town, you would likely need a local taxi or songthaew to reach the cave.
Khao Luang Cave is located approximately in the middle of the route between Bangkok and Hua Hin, making it a convenient stop for travelers heading to or from the popular beach resort town.
Many visitors combine a trip to Khao Luang Cave with other local attractions, such as coconut sugar factories, for a well-rounded experience of Phetchaburi province.
The cave is located just a few minutes from the main highway, making it relatively easy to find.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is very affordable, typically around 10 Baht per person.
No advance booking is usually required. You can pay the small entrance fee upon arrival.
While specific hours can vary, it's generally best to visit during daylight hours, especially in the morning to catch the sunlight beams.
Yes, the walk down is short and manageable for children, though they should be supervised.
Yes, there is a gift shop, a restaurant, and beverages available on-site.
📸 📸 Photography
The morning is ideal for photography as the sunlight beams through the cave's openings, creating dramatic and beautiful lighting conditions.
You can capture stunning shots of the natural light filtering through, the intricate limestone formations, and the numerous Buddha statues within the cave.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. The natural light is the main photographic element, so focus on capturing that.
Generally, photography is allowed, but it's always good practice to be respectful of the sacred nature of the site.
The primary subjects are the sunbeams, the Buddha statues, and the cave's natural geological features like stalactites and stalagmites.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The path involves a short walk down stairs, which can be steep. It's generally manageable for most visitors, including families.
The cave itself is not very large, so exploring it typically won't take much time, perhaps 30 minutes to an hour depending on how long you spend admiring the sights.
Yes, it is a significant historical and sacred site, housing numerous Buddha statues and shrines. Visitors should be respectful of its religious importance.
The cave is described as peaceful, calm, and unique, offering a different experience from typical temples.
Some visitors have noted the presence of a few bats perched on the ceiling.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The natural limestone formations also offer interesting textures and shapes to photograph. Remember to be respectful of the sacred nature of the site while you capture its beauty. 🧘 Spiritual Seekers & Culture Buffs
Experience the tranquility and the blend of nature and devotion that makes Khao Luang Cave a special place. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystical Light of Khao Luang Cave
This natural skylight effect is not just beautiful; it's a key element that draws visitors. The way the light filters down highlights the stalactites and stalagmites, adding to the cave's geological wonder.
The beams can vary in intensity and angle depending on the time of day and weather, so each visit can offer a slightly different visual spectacle. It's this unique atmospheric quality that sets Khao Luang Cave apart from other cave attractions. To best experience this, aim for an early morning visit.
A Sacred Space: History and Spirituality
It was developed by King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) to honor his father, King Mongkut (Rama IV), who was known for his interest in Buddhism and astronomy. This royal patronage underscores the cave's importance in Thai history and religious practice.Inside the cave, you'll find a multitude of Buddha statues and shrines, ranging from small, intricate figures to a notable 4-meter-tall statue.
These religious artifacts are strategically placed amidst the natural cave formations, creating a unique blend of nature and spirituality. The atmosphere is often described as peaceful and calm, offering a contemplative experience for visitors. While the cave is a place of worship, it's also a popular tourist destination. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful of the religious significance of the site.
The combination of its historical depth, spiritual ambiance, and natural beauty makes Khao Luang Cave a compelling destination for those interested in Thai culture and religious heritage. Navigating the Cave and Its Surroundings
Once inside, the cave is not extensive, meaning exploration is relatively quick, typically taking around 30 minutes to an hour.
It's also important to be aware of the local wildlife. Monkeys are often seen near the cave entrance and can be quite bold, especially if they detect food.
Social
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