Huay Mongkol Temple, originally named "Wat Huay Khot," is located approximately 15 kilometers to the west of Hua Hin town. It is a temple that commands immense devotion from Buddhists nationwide. The temple is royally patronized by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother and is best known as the site of the largest statue of Luang Pu Thuat in the world, a revered monk believed to possess protective powers against danger. Visiting this temple is thus considered auspicious and is a primary destination for spiritual tourists.

The most outstanding feature of Wat Huay Mongkol is the colossal cement statue of Luang Pu Thuat, which has a base width_ of 9.9 meters and a height_ of 11.5 meters, standing majestically on a hill visible from afar. This enormous statue was built on the auspicious occasion of the 72nd birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. Beneath the main statue, there is a smaller, revered statue of Luang Pu Thuat where Buddhists can go inside to pay closer homage. The temple grounds also feature other sacred objects, such as the statue of King Naresuan the Great and a large three-headed elephant (Erawan), which people traditionally walk under for good fortune and blessings.

Huay Mongkol Temple can be visited all year round, though it attracts a large number of pilgrims, especially on important religious holidays or long weekends. The overall atmosphere is peaceful, orderly, and devotional, suitable for meditation and prayer. Visitors experience paying respect to the sacred image in a clean and well-managed environment. The main activities include paying homage to Luang Pu Thuat, offering flowers and incense, and praying for good luck and success in life. The temple grounds feature a large courtyard and beautifully landscaped gardens, allowing people to relax and make merit.

Huay Mongkol Temple is appealing to photographers who wish to capture large-scale religious architecture, particularly the image of Luang Pu Thuat against the backdrop of the sky and mountains. Families and the elderly often visit to make merit and seek spiritual peace in the calm surroundings. The temple area offers local products and food for sale, as well as amulets and sacred objects related to Luang Pu Thuat. Access to the temple is convenient and there is a spacious parking lot to accommodate many visitors.

We invite you to visit Wat Huay Mongkol to pay respects to the largest statue of Luang Pu Thuat in the world and take home blessings for an auspicious life, amidst an atmosphere full of faith and tranquility.

Private Car:

• Drive out of Hua Hin town center, heading west on the road leading toward Hua Hin Sam Phan Nam Floating Market/Pa La-U Waterfall. Signs pointing to Wat Huay Mongkol are clearly visible along the route.

Taxi/Hired Songthaew:

• As the temple is located some distance from the town, hiring a taxi or a chartered Songthaew from Hua Hin is the most convenient way to reach the temple.

Best Time to Visit:

• All year round. It is best to go in the morning before the crowds gather and the weather becomes too hot.

Dress Code:

• As it is a sacred temple, visitors should wear polite and respectful attire, avoiding sleeveless shirts, shorts, or skirts above the knee.

Activities:

• Don't forget to walk around the base of the Luang Pu Thuat statue and walk under the belly of the three-headed elephant for added blessings.

Souvenirs:

• The temple area has many shops selling souvenirs and local products to choose from.

Conduct:

• Maintain cleanliness and refrain from making loud noises on the temple grounds for a peaceful atmosphere.

Admission Fee

• No admission fee (Buddhist temple).

Opening Hours

• Open Daily: Approximately 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM

• Note: Shops and other services may have different operating hours.