Dragon Cave Temple Wat Praya Nakarach - Phang Nga Town
Discover this unique stunning natural wonder, an impressive limestone cave set high up in a rocky hill with an otherworldly interior which will capture your imagination. Dragon Cave Temple is a monastery and a place for meditation with a very special atmosphere. Its fascinating history and cultural significance, makes it a must-see destination for anyone who loves exploring unique and beautiful places.
THAILAND: PHANG NGA
Dragon Cave Temple (Wat Praya Nakarach) in Phang Nga is a stunning natural wonder that has captured the imagination of many visitors. Its beautiful and otherworldly interior, coupled with its fascinating history and cultural significance, makes it a must-see destination for anyone who loves exploring unique and beautiful places.
Dragon Cave Temple is a monastery and a place for meditation. It features an impressive limestone cave with huge stalactites built high up into a rocky limestone hill and you’ll find a very special atmosphere that is perfect for meditation and reflection.
Dragon Cave Temple is best known for the local herbal medicine (to lower blood cholesterol) made by the resident monks.
Dragon Cave Temple is a hidden gem in the Phang Nga province. It is off the beaten track of mainstream tourism and receives substantially fewer visitors than other temples such as the Monkey Cave Temple (Wat Suwan Khuha).
On leaving Highway 4 we followed a narrow road heading south for about 1km through palm plantations. On arrival at Dragon Cave Temple we found the parking area easily with rather unimpressive concrete buildings around. There was nobody around and no signposts however, we easily found a stairway heading up the cliff. The cave site has had extensive work done in developing it for safe access and sightseeing. There are solid metal stairways up the cliff face to the main platform area.
Following an overnight stay in Phang Nga town we set out by car. Dragon Cave Temple is approximately 22km from Phang Nga town, on the road aptly named “The Road of 100 Bends” – Highway 4 which connects Phang Nga, Khao Lak and Krabi. As the road wound its way through the lush, mountainous terrain we enjoyed some beautiful scenic views.
We took the stairway that led further up and into the cave and passed various other levels, shrines and meditation areas. Once deep inside the cave, as far in as we could can get, we were amazed at how silent it was, all external noises had disappeared creating a very special atmosphere and it was easy to see why this is a special place dedicated to meditation.
The first stairway was lined with bells and at the top of this stairway we were required to remove our shoes. Up a few more steps we found a Buddhist shrine and we were welcomed by a staff member who pointed out two further stairways heading in different directions. Here there is a donation box and temple items for sale. The temple is free to visit however donations are welcome.
We came back down and then took the other stairway heading up the cliffside. We recommend that you pause and look all around you as you climb as you will discover huge stalactites hanging down and see the jungle growing up into the cave. On this higher level you start to get some views across the valley. The floor here has been tiled in some areas or covered with sand.
As we proceeded along the path we passed a small chedi and then emerged onto a wonderful ‘balcony’ with another shrine and collection of Buddha statues. The view from the ‘balcony’ was stunning and we rested here for a while absorbing the atmosphere whilst enjoying the view.
Here we found a giant snake-like creature, which could maybe be mistaken for a dragon (maybe why some tour companies say 'dragon cave temple'), but this is Paya Naga, the king of the snakes, leading to the name of this temple/cave. The Naga is part of Hindu myth and also Buddhism (which is related to Hinduism). So this is the cave of the king of the snakes.
Sadly this was the end of our adventure and we climbed back down the stair cases.
Visiting Wat Tham Praya Nakarach
Opening times generally 08.30 - 18.00 Entry is free although donations are appreciated.
When visiting a Buddhist temple, it's essential to dress modestly and respectfully. This means covering your shoulders, knees and midriff.
There is a small shop selling snacks and drinks and there are some basic toilets.
Wat Tham Praya Nakarach is a one-of-a-kind temple that's well worth a visit, simply due to its setting in the limestone cliff and the atmosphere. It is an easy drive from Phang Nga town centre and you can self guide, you will only need about an hour. Hire a local guide if you want to learn about the various concepts represented at the temple, which has touches of Buddhism and Hinduism.
You can visit this temple on an organised tour from Kaho Lak including Wat Suwan Khuha and Wat Rat Uppatham (Wat Bang Riang) - Reserve your tour now and pay later, with free cancellation - click here
Khao Nang Hong Viewpoint is only a short distance from Dragon Cave Temple on Highway 4. Be sure to check this out (The tower is closed but you can still enjoy the lush mountainous terrain).
Where to stay in
Phang Nga
Phang Nga Town itself may not be as popular as some of the nearby tourist destinations, but it provides a convenient budget friendly base for exploring the surrounding attractions.
Phang Nga town is mainly built up along the main highway running North / South. There are plenty of accommodation options ranging from simple guest houses right inside the town to 5* resorts and villas on the outskirts.
We stayed at the budget friendly TP Place Hotel which had onsite parking and was easy walking distance from the attractions we visited in the town. We stayed in two rooms next to each other and they accommodated our request for one double bed and two single beds. The rooms were basic but had everything we needed for a quick sleepover in-between exploring the area. There were shops and restaurants within walking distance.
We also stayed at Rachawadee House which had onsite parking directly in front of your room and was easy walking distance to the attractions in town. The nightmarket is next to the guesthouse and breakfast can be located along the main road. There is a washing machine onsite. We stayed in two rooms, one with a double bed and one with twin beds. The rooms were basic but had everything you need for a sleepover after a long day exploring.
You may choose to stay at the mid-range priced 4* Le Erawan Phang Nga Hotel located just outside the main town with large, comfortable and clean rooms.
There is a great selection of inexpensive Thai restaurants dotted along the main highway. If you are looking for western style food there are great restaurants at the lakeside on Thetsaban Bamrung. We can highly recommend Raruen Bar and Bistro which serves Thai and European favourites with live music and great drinks.
The view from our balcony
Note: This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you.
SUBSCRIBE
Subscribe to our newsletter to always be the first to hear about recent Blogs and adventures.
