Tham Rong Temple is an ancient temple of historical and spiritual significance to the Ban Lat community in Phetchaburi Province. It is believed to have been established during the middle Ayutthaya period, around the 22nd Buddhist century (approximately 1557–1656 AD), when riverside settlements in the Phetchaburi area were flourishing. The temple’s most distinctive feature is a small limestone cave within the temple grounds, which enshrines Luang Pho Dam, a sandstone Buddha image from the Ayutthaya period that has long been revered as the guardian Buddha of the local community. The temple atmosphere is shaded by large and small trees, set against a backdrop of limestone mountains, creating a sense of tranquility and faith from the moment visitors arrive.

Luang Pho Dam is believed to have been created during the late Ayutthaya period, around 1607–1657 AD. The Buddha image reflects a simple yet sacred style characteristic of Ayutthaya Buddhist art and aligns with the traditional practice of enshrining Buddha images in caves, which were once used as meditation retreats and sacred spaces. The peaceful surroundings of the cave further enhance the spiritual experience for worshippers.

A unique highlight of Tham Rong Temple is its stucco decorations in the Phetchaburi artistic style, adorning the viharn and ubosot. These decorative works were mostly restored and added during the early to mid-Rattanakosin period, approximately 1807–1907 AD, showcasing the refined craftsmanship and artistic heritage of local artisans. The temple is also surrounded by dense groves of palmyra palm trees, a defining symbol of Tham Rong Subdistrict and nearby tamarind plantations, where visitors can observe traditional palm-sap harvesting and palm sugar production.

A must-do activity is walking up to the cave to pay respect and pray to Luang Pho Dam, who is widely believed to possess sacred power in granting blessings related to good fortune, protection, and safety. On weekends and holidays, visitors may also encounter a small community market, where local residents sell palm-based products such as fresh palm sap, palm cakes, and candied palm fruit at affordable prices, along with warm and friendly smiles.

For photography enthusiasts, Wat Tham Rong is a paradise for both lifestyle and landscape photography. In the late afternoon, sunlight filtering through the palm trees creates striking shadows, while the ancient temple architecture set against lush green mountains offers visually balanced compositions that blend cultural heritage with natural beauty.

Tham Rong Temple is therefore not only a place of religious practice, but also a living historical site and a spiritual center with a legacy spanning more than 400 years, reflecting the deep connection between Buddhism, community life, and the natural landscape of Phetchaburi.

Private Car:

• From Bangkok, take Phetkasem Road toward Phetchaburi, turn right into Ban Lat District, and follow the signs to Tham Rong.

Local Transport:

• Hire a songthaew (local pickup truck taxi) from Phetchaburi city center; the temple is located a short drive from the main town.

• The best time to visit is from January to April, the peak season for toddy palm harvesting and fresh palm sugar production.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as there are stairs to climb to reach the Buddha cave.

• Bring a camera to capture the "Sea of Palms" at sunset, which is considered one of Phetchaburi's most iconic viewpoints.

• Support the local economy by trying the fresh palm nectar and traditional Thai desserts handmade by the villagers.

Admission Fee

• Local Visitors: Adult Free

• Child: Free

• Foreign Visitors: Adult Free

• Child: Free

Opening Hours

• Open Daily: 08:00 – 17:00