Religious site
Wat Tham Khao Tao
วัดถ้ำเขาเต่า
Visiting essentials
Admission
TAT lists free entry with an optional temple donationUpper hill
Long staircase; wear comfortable walking footwearArea
Beside Khao Tao Beach, south of central Hua HinAbout this place
Wat Tham Khao Tao is the cave temple beside the coastal hill at Khao Tao, in Nong Kae south of central Hua Hin. Its name is associated with the turtle hill, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand describes a golden turtle enshrined at the temple and a golden Buddha higher on the hill.
The climb to the upper viewpoint involves a long staircase. Wear footwear suited to steps and allow enough time for the climb and descent; the upper Buddha and coastal outlook are a different part of the visit from the lower cave-temple area. Khao Tao Beach lies by the foot of the hill, while the reservoir is a separate nearby feature.
TAT lists admission as free, with optional donations through the temple donation box. Some parts of the adjoining hill are restricted under a royal wildlife-protection project: stay within the visitor areas and follow signs. The site reference pin does not establish the location of an accessible entrance.
Location map
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Choose the part of the temple to visit
The lower cave-temple area and the golden Buddha on the hill involve different amounts of climbing. Consider the stairs before including the upper viewpoint in your visit.
Keep the neighbouring places distinct
The beach is at the hill’s foot and Khao Tao reservoir is nearby. Use the temple’s own map point for this visit rather than the railway station or a beach accommodation address.
Respect visitor boundaries
TAT notes restricted areas on the hill associated with a royal wildlife-protection project. Follow the signed visitor route and avoid entering closed areas.
Sources & review
Content owner: Thailand Navigator Editorial Team
Last reviewed
Check official information for details that may change.