Tham Dao Khao Kaew Temple is a sacred temple and meditation retreat nestled in the tranquil mountains of Muak Lek District, Saraburi Province. Renowned for its peaceful and secluded atmosphere, the temple is ideal for those seeking to make merit, pray, and practice meditation. The cave itself is large, spacious, and majestic, with its natural condition well preserved. Clean and well maintained, the interior creates an immediate sense of serenity and sacredness upon entering.

The temple also holds significant historical and spiritual importance as it was once a place where Luang Pho Koon Parisuttho, one of Thailand’s most revered monks, stayed during his monastic journeys and practiced ascetic meditation. This association has elevated the site as a place deeply rooted in faith, discipline, and spiritual cultivation.

One of the most distinctive and rare features of the cave is the natural sparkling phenomenon on its walls. When illuminated by artificial light, countless glittering points appear, resembling millions of stars scattered across the cave surface—giving rise to the name “Tham Dao,” or “Star Cave.” Inside, visitors will find impressive stalactites and stalagmites with unusual shapes that continue to grow naturally. The cave is divided into several chambers, including a remarkable central hall approximately 15 meters wide, evoking a sense of grandeur, reverence, and meditative power.

According to local beliefs, Tham Dao Khao Kaew Temple is regarded as a mystical hidden realm and the land of the Naga serpent. Statues of the Naga King and revered ancestral figures are enshrined within the cave, allowing devotees to pay respect and seek blessings. The cave remains cool throughout the year, and it is believed that praying or meditating here helps calm the mind and accelerate spiritual insight, due to the sacred energy passed down over generations.

For explorers and nature enthusiasts, the temple has established well-organized walking paths inside the cave, complete with wooden stairways and guiding lights. Although visitors can walk as deep as approximately 500 meters into the cave, ventilation remains excellent throughout. Another highlight is the natural skylight shaft, where daylight and the sky can be seen from within the cave. Visitors may also climb a staircase to the hilltop to worship the large statue of Brahma, from where expansive panoramic views of surrounding forests and mountains can be enjoyed.

Tham Dao Khao Kaew Temple beautifully blends faith, tranquility, and natural wonder into a single destination. It stands as a hidden spiritual gem of Saraburi, offering profound inner peace and a meaningful experience to all who visit.

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How to Get There

Private Car:

• From Muak Lek, follow the route to Chet Sao Noi Waterfall (Highway 2224), continue about 30 km past the waterfall toward Lam Phaya Klang. Signs for the temple are clearly visible.

Public Transport:

• It is recommended to reach Muak Lek town first and then hire a local vehicle, as the temple is located deep within the rural hills.

Road Note:

• The access road is mostly paved but has some gravel sections; please drive with caution.

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Travel Tips

Best Season:

• Accessible year-round, though the winter months offer the most pleasant weather for climbing the hill for views.

Dress Code:

• As this is a temple and meditation site, please dress modestly and wear sneakers for safety while walking inside the cave.

Photography:

• Bring a flashlight or a low-light camera to best capture the sparkling effect of the cave walls.

Conduct:

• Please remain quiet inside the cave and avoid touching the rock formations to preserve the natural environment and sanctity.

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Admission Fee

• Local visitors: Free (Donations welcome)

• Foreign visitors: Free (Donations welcome)

Opening Hours

• Open daily: 10:00 – 17:00

• Note: Arrive before 16:00 to ensure enough time to explore the entire cave system.