Within the territory of Phang Nga National Park lies an extraordinary Buddhist temple in Thailand—the Monkey Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suwan Khuha). This place attracts not only pilgrims but also tourists who visit during park excursions. The temple combines the natural beauty of a cave, ancient religious artifacts, and playful monkeys that have become its symbols.
The exact founding date of the temple is unknown, but it is believed to be at least 300–400 years old. Since ancient times, the cave has been used as a meditation site by Buddhist monks, and later, the first shrines appeared here. The main part of the temple complex was developed in the 19th–20th centuries, when local residents and monks began creating Buddha statues and decorating the cave.
Main Shrine: The Reclining Buddha
In the central hall of the cave stands a majestic sculpture of the Reclining Buddha (Parinirvana Buddha), reaching 15 meters in length. The statue is gilded and depicts the Buddha at the moment of entering Nirvana. Although the exact age of the sculpture is unknown, its style suggests it dates back to the late 19th or early 20th century.
Above the Reclining Buddha is a shrine with two statues, installed in the 20th century, which attract many worshippers:
• Buddha in a meditative pose—symbolizing enlightenment.
• Statue of the Bodhisattva Guanyin—the goddess of mercy, revered in Mahayana Buddhism.
Visitors to the temple can participate in a traditional blessing ritual. A monk sprinkles them with holy water, recites prayers, and ties a white or orange sacred thread (sai sin) around their wrist—a symbol of protection and good luck. Tourists often leave donations and make wishes at the foot of the statues.
From the main hall, a narrow staircase leads to the upper part of the cave, where dim lighting and bizarre stalactites hang from the ceiling. Some of them resemble animal or deity figures. There are also small altars and meditation niches here.
In front of the cave entrance grows an old sacred fig tree (Ficus religiosa), considered holy in Buddhism. Under its shade, monks sometimes hold ceremonies, and tourists tie ribbons on its branches for good luck.
The Monkeys: Former Lords of the Cave
In the past, macaques freely roamed inside the temple, but due to their aggressive behavior (stealing belongings, attempting to bite visitors), authorities banned feeding them near the shrines. Now, a special feeding zone is set up 50 meters from the entrance, where tourists can buy fruit and interact with the monkeys.
The Monkey Cave Temple is a fascinating blend of natural wonder, ancient spirituality, and exotic wildlife. Visiting this place leaves unforgettable impressions, allowing travelers to touch the mysteries of Buddhism and enjoy the beauty of Thai nature.
