Wat Ao Noi Temple has long been the spiritual heart of the Ao Noi sub-district community, situated in a scenic location along the coast of the Gulf of Thailand, offering a perfect blend of faith and natural beauty.

The Golden Teak Ubosot: A Symbol of Faith

The entirely teak ordination hall (Ubosot) is currently the most significant magnet for both tourists and devotees. This Ubosot was constructed through the devotion and leadership of the late Phra Khru Phromphanyaphon (Luang Pho Wira), the temple's former abbot, with construction commencing in the early 2000s (around 2004 AD / B.E. 2547).

• Source of Teak Wood: The structure is built using golden teak (mai sak thong), entirely sourced from donations by devotees and timber salvaged from old residential homes, emphasizing its status as a communal work of faith.

• Exquisite Carvings: Master Thai craftsmen meticulously carved intricate patterns across the walls, pillars, and ceilings. Notable are the detailed depictions of the Buddha’s Life (Phutthaprawat) and celestial beings (Thep Phanom). This ongoing carving project represents a continuous effort to create a piece of invaluable Buddhist artistry.

Tham Phra Non: The Historical Origin

Before the temple was officially established in 1987 AD (B.E. 2530), the site was already known locally as "Wat Tham Phra Non" (Reclining Buddha Cave Temple), underscoring that the cave was the community's original religious center.

• Age of the Reclining Buddha: The large Reclining Buddha image enshrined within the cave is estimated to be 300–500 years old, suggesting it may have been constructed during the Ayutthaya Kingdom or the early years of the local settlement.

• Artistic Features: The cave houses two distinct Reclining Buddha images, with the older one showcasing an artistic style that blends the U-Thong and early Rattanakosin periods.

• Historical Role: The cave historically served not only as a place for meditation but also as a vital shelter for local fishermen seeking refuge from storms in the Gulf of Thailand, linking the temple closely to the maritime way of life.

Cultural and Scenic Value

The temple's Ubosot features newly created murals that tell Buddhist stories, adding cultural depth. Coupled with its unique location overlooking Ao Noi Bay and its surrounding mountains, visitors can engage in merit-making while enjoying the scenic views and observing the daily activities of fishing boats, making it an ideal blend of pilgrimage and leisure travel.

Given its seaside location, visitors can enjoy views of Ao Noi Bay, the surrounding mountains, and the local fishing community's way of life from within the temple grounds. This blend of tranquility, artistic beauty, and natural scenery makes Wat Ao Noi a truly unique destination.

Private car:

• Drive from downtown Prachuap Khiri Khan toward Ao Noi, about 3 kilometers from the city center

Local transport:

• Songthaew or motorcycle taxis are available from town

Walking or cycling:

• Visitors staying near Ao Noi can easily walk or cycle along the beach road

• Dress respectfully when entering the temple area.

• Morning and evening are suitable times for photography.

• If you wish to enter the Reclining Buddha Cave, you should carry a small flashlight.

• Maintain good manners; do not make loud noises in the sacred area.

• Can be combined with a visit to the Ao Noi viewpoint for added value.

Admission Fee

General Public/Foreign Visitors:

• Free entry for everyone

Opening–Closing Hours

• Monday - Saturday: 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM

• Sunday: 08:00 AM – 05:30 PM