Khao Luang Cave, an ancient tourist attraction | Phetchaburi

Khao Luang Cave, another must-see attraction. Located on Khao Luang Mountain, Thongchai Subdistrict, Mueang District, Phetchaburi Province, the cave houses beautiful Buddha images. A highlight is the wide opening inside the cave where sunlight streams in, illuminating the rock formations and creating stunning vistas. The best time for sunlight is between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM. The amount of light varies depending on the weather. Another local name for this cave is Tham Viman Chakri (Chakri's Palace Cave). It's believed that Khun Chan Chai Chak, a former governor of Phetchaburi, requested this name from King Rama IV, although there's no definitive evidence. It's speculated that Khao Luang Cave may have been transformed into a Buddhist or sacred site since the early Ayutthaya period, as evidenced by the Buddha images, stupas, Buddha footprints, and various written records. Khao Luang Cave in Phetchaburi is considered the largest and most important cave in the province and is home to Wat Tham Khao Luang (Khao Luang Cave Temple). Built during the reign of King Rama V. His Majesty intended to build a temple on the mountaintop as a tribute to King Rama IV, who once visited this cave. Inside the cave, there are three main chambers. The first chamber contains a replica of the Buddha's footprint and a rock formation resembling a turtle, created by dripping water. This chamber also features beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. The second chamber has Buddha statues arranged around it, with a light shaft allowing sunlight to illuminate the cave floor. Besides its beauty, it also provides ample light. Importantly, it houses a reclining Buddha and a large, sacred Buddha statue called Luang Pho To. Information for tourists: Opening Hours: Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday - Sunday and Public Holidays: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Transportation and Parking: Tourists must park their vehicles at the parking lot near the visitor center (at the foot of the mountain). From there, take a local shared taxi to the cave entrance. (Takes less than 5 minutes, round trip fee approximately 15 baht)
Caution: There are many local monkeys living around the cave entrance and the stairs leading down. Keep valuables such as hats, glasses, and snack bags securely hidden to prevent them from being snatched by the monkeys.