Khao Somphot Temple is a well-known Buddhist temple renowned for its meditation and spiritual practice. It is located in Chai Badan District, Lopburi Province, and is surrounded by uniquely shaped limestone mountains and rich natural scenery. The temple offers a peaceful and secluded atmosphere, making it an ideal place for those who wish to retreat from daily distractions and cultivate inner calm. As a result, it has become an important destination for Buddhists from all over the country.

The temple is widely recognized as the birthplace and center of the “Dhamma Open World” practice, a teaching passed down by Luang Pho Khong Jattamalo, the former abbot known for his compassion and deep wisdom. This approach to practice emphasizes mental purification, the expansion of spiritual understanding, and insight into the true nature of life. These teachings have drawn countless practitioners who seek genuine spiritual growth and inner transformation.

One of the most distinctive features of Khao Somphot Temple is its landscape, which consists of numerous caves and rocky shelters that have been adapted into sacred spaces and accommodation for meditation practitioners. Within the temple grounds are several important caves, such as Phra Kiao Cave and Arahant Cave. Each cave is naturally cool, quiet, and serene, making them especially suitable for meditation and Vipassana practice. In addition, a large and majestic Buddha image in the “Open World” posture stands as a symbol of liberation from defilements and the attainment of enlightened wisdom.

The overall atmosphere of the temple is calm, secluded, and contemplative. Visitors can observe the simple way of life of monks and meditation practitioners, accompanied by the natural sounds of birds and insects in the surrounding forest. The beauty of the temple lies not in luxurious architecture, but in its complete harmony with nature. This is especially evident along the long stairways leading up the mountains, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views and gradually let go of mental restlessness.

For merit-makers and those seeking inner peace, Khao Somphot Temple is a destination not to be missed. Whether one comes to participate seriously in meditation retreats or simply to pay respect to the statue of Luang Pho Khong and other sacred objects within the temple, every visitor can take home a sense of positivity, tranquility, and peace of mind. The temple also offers the opportunity to admire the delicate beauty of stalactites and stalagmites formed naturally within its caves.

Khao Somphot Temple can therefore be seen as a gateway to serenity and an understanding of life’s truths. It is a place where faith, nature, and the Dhamma blend seamlessly, helping to cleanse the mind and guide visitors toward genuine happiness that arises from within.

---

How to Get There

Private Car:

• From Chai Badan (Lam Narai), take the route toward Bua Chum. Signs for Wat Khao Somphot are clearly visible along the road.

Public Transport:

• Take a bus to the Lam Narai transport station, then hire a local taxi or motorcycle taxi to reach the temple.

---

Travel Tips

Best Season:

• Can be visited year-round. For those wishing to join a meditation retreat, it is recommended to contact the temple in advance.

Clothing:

• As it is a strict meditation site, please wear polite and modest clothing (white attire for practitioners) and remove shoes before entering caves or shrines.

Preparation:

• If you plan to explore the mountain caves, be physically prepared and wear secure footwear, as some sections involve steep stairs.

Conduct:

• Please remain quiet and respect the temple's rules to avoid disturbing those in meditation.

Souvenirs:

• Local agricultural products and Dhamma books are often available for purchase near the temple entrance.

---

Admission Fee

• Local visitors: Free

• Foreign visitors: Free

Opening Hours

• Daily 05:00 – 17:00 (For general visitors)

• For practitioners: According to retreat schedules.