About Tham Khao Yoi
Tham Khao Yoi is a Buddhist cave temple located on Khao Yoi hill in Khao Yoi District, Phetchaburi Province, central Thailand. The limestone cave complex houses multiple chambers with Buddha images, including a large reclining Buddha, stalactites and stalagmites. Historically linked to Thai kings including Rama IV, it serves as an active religious site and local landmark. Accessible via stairs from the hill base, it is noted for its natural formations and religious art.
Visitors guide
Visitors climb stairs to the hillside entrance and enter a series of interconnected limestone chambers illuminated with artificial lighting. Inside are numerous Buddha images including a prominent reclining Buddha, stalactites and stalagmites, shrines and religious offerings. The cave is an active temple with monks and worshippers, surrounded by the forested hill landscape. Expect uneven floors, low ceilings in places, and small shrines and viewpoints around the hill base.
Key highlights
- 01
Large reclining Buddha image inside the main cave chamber
- 02
Natural stalactite and stalagmite formations throughout the cave
- 03
Historic royal association with King Rama IV and later kings
- 04
Multiple connected cave chambers with shrines and Buddha statues
- 05
Hilltop setting with views over Khao Yoi town and surrounding plains
History of Tham Khao Yoi
The cave has been used as a meditation site since the Ayutthaya period. It is historically associated with King Rama IV (King Mongkut) who meditated there during his monkhood before ascending the throne, with later visits by King Rama V and King Rama VI commemorated by inscriptions and royal emblems within the cave.
Culture & Context
Active Theravada Buddhist temple and pilgrimage site housing sacred Buddha images including a reclining Buddha. Used for prayer, merit-making and local religious ceremonies, it exemplifies the Thai tradition of cave temples as sacred retreats.
Route
| By air |
|---|