Gplace > Thailand > Saraburi > Kaeng Khoi > Tham Phra Phothisat Temple

“Witness 1,000-year-old Dvaravati-style bas-relief carvings inside Phra Phothisat Cave and visit the "Jor Por Ror" waterfall, featuring King Rama V’s royal initials carved into the cliffside.”

Tham Phra Phothisat Temple is a Vipassana meditation temple located amid mountain valleys surrounded on three sides, creating an atmosphere of profound tranquility and lush natural serenity. The secluded setting separates the temple from external disturbances, making it an ideal place for meditation practice, spiritual retreat, and mental relaxation in a well-preserved natural environment.

The most significant highlight of the temple is Tham Phra Bodhisattva Cave, situated on a hillside that requires visitors to climb approximately 300–400 steps to reach. Inside the cave lies a remarkable ancient artifact: a Dvaravati-period bas-relief carving depicting the Buddha in the Pralambapada posture, or seated with legs hanging down. The Buddha is surrounded by Bodhisattvas and Hindu deities, namely Shiva and Vishnu. This artwork represents an invaluable historical and religious record and remains in relatively well-preserved condition, reflecting the religious syncretism and beliefs of the Dvaravati era.

Beyond the main cave, the temple complex includes several other notable caves, each offering unique natural beauty and spiritual ambiance. These include Tham Thammatat, suitable for meditation and admiring stalactite and stalagmite formations; Tham Lumbini Suan Hin, a long cave featuring an underground stream that adds a refreshing atmosphere throughout the passage; and Tham Sangat Chedi, a quiet cave true to its name, ideal for deep contemplation and meditation practice.

Another important site within the temple grounds is Chor Por Ror Waterfall, also known as Thammarot Waterfall, located at the foot of the hill leading up to the cave. Although the waterfall may dry up during the dry season, it holds significant historical value, as King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) visited the site in 1896. His royal monogram, “Chor Por Ror 115,” was carved into the rock face above the waterfall and remains visible today.

One of the temple’s most striking architectural features is the white Bodhi leaf-shaped ordination hall, standing gracefully against a backdrop of towering limestone mountains. The temple grounds also feature a large Buddha image and a serene white statue of Guan Yin, enhancing the sense of compassion and inner peace. Altogether, Wat Tham Phra Bodhisattva offers a harmonious blend of spiritual depth, historical significance, and natural beauty.

How to Get There

Private Car:

From Bangkok, take Mittraphap Road towards Saraburi. Near Thap Kwang Subdistrict (KM 131-132), look for signs for Wat Tham Phra Phothisat on the right. Make a U-turn and drive down the paved local road for about 11 km.

Public Transport:

Take a van or bus towards Nakhon Ratchasima and get off at the entrance to Wat Tham Phra Phothisat in Thap Kwang. From there, hire a local motorcycle taxi or taxi to reach the temple.

Travel Tips

Prepare for the climb to the cave by wearing comfortable walking shoes and carrying water.
Be cautious of monkeys; avoid holding food or opening snack bags in their presence.
As this is a meditation temple, please keep noise to a minimum and dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered).
Recommended visiting time is 08:30 AM - 04:00 PM for optimal natural light to see the carvings and explore the surroundings.

Admission Fee