Tham Khao Prang Temple stands majestically on a hillside in Chai Badan District, Lopburi Province. It is a temple under the Dhammayut Nikaya, renowned for its outstanding Buddhist art and sacred architecture. Located in a prominent position visible from the main road, the temple serves as a spiritual landmark welcoming travelers along the route. The most striking feature is the enormous white Buddha image in the First Sermon posture (Dhammacakkappavattana Mudra), with a width_ of 32 meters and an overall height_ of 56 meters. This makes it the largest Buddha image in this posture in Thailand, inspiring deep faith and reverence at first sight.

At the base of the Buddha image stands the Navalokuttara Chedi, or the Nine-Spired Chedi, a graceful inverted-bell-shaped stupa in pristine white. Designed with profound Buddhist symbolism, the interior enshrines sacred relics of the Buddha as well as relics of revered meditation masters from the forest tradition, deeply respected by Buddhists nationwide. The path leading up to the chedi is highlighted by a magnificent seven-headed rainbow-colored Naga staircase, elegantly adorned with intricate details. Its vivid colors contrast beautifully with the white tones of the Buddha image and the chedi, making it a popular photo and check-in spot for visitors.

The atmosphere throughout the temple grounds is filled with tranquility, shade, and spiritual comfort, as the temple is surrounded by lush natural scenery on the hillside. Visitors may choose to drive up to the parking area near the top or walk up the Naga staircase as an act of devotion, enjoying the cool breeze along the way. From the upper area, panoramic views of Chai Badan District unfold, revealing expansive green landscapes and layered mountain ranges. On clear days, the scenery appears especially vivid and refreshing.

For merit-makers and cultural travelers, Wat Tham Khao Prang is more than just a stopover on the way to Phetchabun Province. It is also an important center for meditation practice. The temple area includes several sacred caves, such as Tham Phra (the Buddha Cave) and Tham Ruesi (the Hermit Cave), offering a quiet and contemplative environment ideal for meditation and inner reflection. In addition, a small museum displays ancient artifacts and antiquities discovered within the temple grounds, allowing visitors to learn about local history while engaging in religious activities.

Tham Khao Prang Temple is therefore a place where faith, art, and nature blend seamlessly. Visitors are warmly invited to pay respect to the great Buddha image, seek blessings for auspiciousness, and experience the refined beauty of Buddhist art on this serene hillside—a destination that leaves a lasting impression and a sense of peace in the heart.

---

How to Get There

Private Car:

• Take Highway 21 (Saraburi-Lomsak) toward Phetchabun. After passing Chai Badan district, the temple will be clearly visible on the left side of the road.

Public Transport:

• Take a van or bus from Bangkok bound for Phetchabun or those passing through Chai Badan, and ask to get off in front of the temple or take a local taxi.

---

Travel Tips

Best Season:

• Can be visited year-round. Morning or late afternoon is recommended for cooler temperatures and the best lighting for photography.

Footwear and Dress:

• As it is a religious site, please dress politely and modestly.

Photography:

• The rainbow Naga staircase with the Buddha statue in the background and the panoramic platform around the pagoda base are the most popular photo spots.

Planning:

• If you plan to climb the stairs, stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes. The climb is manageable but can be warm during midday.

Activities:

• Don't miss paying respects to the relics inside the Nawalokuttara Pagoda before exploring the surrounding caves.

---

Admission Fee

• Local visitors: Free

• Foreign visitors: Free

Opening Hours:

• Daily 07:00 – 17:00