Tham Krabok Temple is internationally renowned as a drug rehabilitation center, recognized for its distinctive treatment approach based on herbal medicine and solemn vows, focusing on both physical recovery and mental discipline. The rehabilitation program was founded and developed by Luang Pho Chamrun Panjan, the former abbot of the temple, who was awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award for his long-standing contribution to social welfare and sustainable drug rehabilitation.

The temple is set amid a range of dramatic limestone mountains, surrounded by cliffs and natural caves, creating an atmosphere that is sacred, tranquil, and highly conducive to spiritual practice. Today, Tham Krabok Temple is also regarded as one of Thailand’s Unseen destinations, due to its rare and highly distinctive Buddhist art, unlike that found in any other temple in the world.

One of the temple’s most remarkable features is its collection of lava-stone Buddha statues, created through the collective efforts of monks and nuns. Stones from the surrounding mountains are subjected to intense heat until they take on lava-like characteristics, then cast into Buddha images in various postures. Their deep black color conveys a sense of solemnity, strength, and spiritual power. The temple also features a large lava sculpture of His Majesty King Rama IX, standing prominently, as well as an ordination hall encircled by pillars adorned with handcrafted Buddha figures, reflecting perseverance, devotion, and profound faith.

The overall atmosphere within the temple strongly reflects discipline and devotion. Much of the area lies under the shade of cliffs and natural caves. The beauty of Tham Krabok Temple s not limited to its physical appearance but is also felt as a transformative spiritual force. Visitors often experience a deep sense of calm that encourages meditation, self-reflection, and personal renewal, surrounded by a landscape that resembles a legendary ancient city.

For travelers and photographers, the temple offers striking visual contrasts between the dark lava-stone architecture, lush green mountains, and open sky. Meanwhile, devotees and those seeking inner peace visit to pay respects, make merit, and absorb the temple’s simple yet powerful atmosphere, as well as to learn about the long-standing use of traditional Thai herbal medicine in helping people rebuild their lives for over six decades.

Tham Krabok Temple ultimately stands as a testament to how faith, perseverance, and determination can shape extraordinary Buddhist art and provide genuine opportunities for healing and new beginnings.

Private Car:

• Take Phahonyothin Road towards Saraburi-Lopburi. Near Phra Phuttha Bat District (around KM 131-132), look for the sign for Tham Krabok Temple on the left. Follow the road to the end.

Public Transport:

• Take a Bangkok-Lopburi van, get off at the entrance to Wat Tham Krabok, and hire a motorcycle taxi into the temple.

• Recommended visiting time is morning (08:30 - 10:30 AM) to avoid the heat while exploring the open-air lava stone Buddha area.

• Please dress politely and remain quiet, as this is a site for both meditation and patient treatment.

• When taking photos near the rehabilitation zones, please be respectful and avoid infringing on the privacy of those receiving treatment.

• Don't miss learning about the temple's famous Thai herbs.

Admission Fee

• Local visitors: Free

• Foreign visitors: Free

Opening Hours

• Open daily: 08:30 AM – 04:30 PM