Khao Luang Cave is one of the most famous and historically significant caves in Phetchaburi Province. It is located on Khao Luang, a small limestone hill rising approximately 92 meters above sea level. The cave itself is a large limestone cavern with a high, naturally open ceiling, creating a spacious, majestic, and sacred atmosphere. Inside the cave are numerous ancient Buddha images, with a large Buddha image in the Maravijaya posture as the central focus, symbolizing serenity and deep Buddhist devotion.

The most distinctive feature that has captivated visitors from around the world is the natural phenomenon known as the “beam of light,” where sunlight streams through an opening in the cave ceiling and illuminates the Buddha images and the cave floor below. This breathtaking scene resembles a heavenly light descending from above. The phenomenon is most visible in the morning and is the most popular time for tourists and photographers to visit the cave.

Khao Luang Cave also holds great historical significance. During the reign of King Rama IV, King Mongkut (1851–1868), the cave was a favored royal retreat, and he visited it on several occasions. The King graciously ordered the creation of royal Buddha images to dedicate as merit to the kings of the first three reigns of the Rattanakosin period. As a result, the cave became an important religious site reflecting the close relationship between the Thai monarchy and Buddhism.

The atmosphere inside the cave remains cool and pleasant throughout the year due to its limestone structure and natural ventilation. As visitors walk deeper into the cave, they will encounter several inner chambers adorned with uniquely shaped stalactites and stalagmites, along with replica Buddha footprints and Buddha images in various postures for worship. The quiet and tranquil environment encourages meditation and offers a profound sense of peace to all who enter.

For art lovers and photography enthusiasts, Khao Luang Cave is a dream destination. The golden beams of sunlight descending through the cave ceiling create dramatic light-and-shadow effects that cannot be found elsewhere. The harmonious combination of Buddhist art, ancient architecture, and natural surroundings makes the cave an ideal place to study history, art, culture, and the geographical landscape of Phetchaburi.

Khao Luang Cave is not only a natural attraction but also an important historical and spiritual heritage of Phetchaburi Province. Visitors are invited to experience the harmony between nature and faith and to appreciate one of the most treasured cultural landmarks that has been preserved for centuries.

Private Car:

• From Phetkasem Road, follow the signs to Khao Luang Cave. It is located about 5 km from Khao Wang, with a parking area available at the base of the hill.

Local Transport:

• You can easily hire a songthaew or a motorcycle taxi from the front of Khao Wang or the Phetchaburi Railway Station.

Shuttle Service:

• From the parking lot, a local shuttle service (small truck) is available to take visitors up the short but steep incline to the cave entrance.

Best Visiting Season:

• The best time to see the light beam is between 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM. Between April and May, the sun aligns perfectly to shine directly onto the main Buddha image.

Footwear and Gear:

• Wear comfortable shoes with good grip, as parts of the cave floor can be damp and slippery. Dress politely to show respect for the sacred site.

Photography:

• A tripod is recommended for low-light cave photography; however, be mindful of water droplets or dust that may affect your lens.

Wildlife Warning:

• Be very cautious of the monkeys at the parking area and cave entrance. Do not carry food or plastic bags, as they will attempt to snatch them.

Planning:

• Allow about 1 hour for the interior exploration and be prepared for walking up and down stairs at the cave mouth.

Admission Fee

• Local visitors: Free

• Foreign visitors: Free

• Note: Local shuttle service fee is approximately 15-20 THB per person. 

Opening Hours:

• Mon-Fri 09:00 – 16:00 and Sat-Sun 09:00 – 17:00