We’ll start your adventure with a warm welcome! Around 8:30 AM, your friendly guide and driver will pick you up right at your hotel lobby in a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus. Pick-up times may vary slightly depending on your location, but don’t worry—we’ll confirm everything with you at the time of booking to ensure a smooth and relaxed start to your day.

Visiting Wat Tham Phaya Nakarad, also known as the Dragon Cave or Naga Cave Temple, is a rewarding experience for those who enjoy nature, spirituality, and a bit of adventure. The walk to the top may take some effort, but the peaceful surroundings and breathtaking views make it more than worthwhile.

Unlike traditional Thai temples with golden spires and red roofs, this unique site is set within a network of limestone caves and karst formations. These natural caverns once served as a secluded retreat for a monk who used the quiet space for deep meditation. In Thailand, caves are often seen as ideal places for reflection and spiritual practice, offering cool shelter from the heat and rain.

During his lifetime, the monk became known for preparing a special herbal remedy said to help with high blood pressure. People from near and far came not only to seek healing but to experience the tranquil atmosphere of this sacred site. Today, the temple continues to inspire visitors with its peaceful energy, fascinating history, and the mystical allure of the dragon spirit believed to guard the cave.

Wat Bang Riang is one of the most striking temples in Phang Nga Province, both for its spiritual significance and panoramic views. As you arrive, your attention is immediately drawn to the grand staircase guarded by intricately sculpted Nagas—mythical serpent-like beings. In Buddhist tradition, the Naga represents Mucalinda, the serpent who protected the Buddha from the rain as he meditated. These symbolic figures lead the way up the hill to this sacred Theravada Buddhist temple.

The short climb rewards you with breathtaking vistas across a wide, peaceful valley surrounded by limestone mountains. From the hilltop, two towering statues dominate the landscape below. One is the Buddha, seated calmly under a protective multi-headed Naga. The other is Guanyin, often recognized as the goddess of compassion and mercy.

Though Guanyin is widely referred to as a goddess, many believe she represents a mortal being who attained complete enlightenment. In Buddhist belief, Guanyin listens to the cries of the world and offers guidance. Some followers even say that upon death, she places the soul within a lotus flower and carries it to Sukhāvatī—the Pure Land of ultimate bliss.

Wat Bang Riang is not only a place of worship, but also a place of peace, reflection, and deep cultural symbolism. It’s a must-visit site for anyone interested in the spiritual and artistic richness of Thailand.

Take a well-deserved break and enjoy a tasty Thai lunch at a charming local restaurant surrounded by natural beauty. It’s the perfect way to recharge, soak in the peaceful atmosphere, and savor the flavors of authentic Thai cuisine before continuing your adventure.

Wat Manee Sri Mahathat is a deeply spiritual and historically significant temple dedicated to Phor Than Khlai, one of southern Thailand’s most revered monks. The temple was built by Suraksak Manisii, who felt an overwhelming spiritual calling to honor the monk’s legacy. He invested around 80 million Baht of his own funds, with further contributions from family and friends, bringing the total project cost to approximately 100 million Baht.

At the heart of the temple is a majestic statue of Phor Than Khlai, whose life continues to inspire countless people across Thailand and Southeast Asia. Known for his wisdom and foresight, Phor Than Khlai was also admired by King Rama IX. Despite suffering a serious leg injury in his youth, he never sought medical help and eventually amputated his own foot to relieve the pain. His strength, resilience, and commitment to spiritual life led him to become a monk at just 15 and an abbot by 25.

The temple grounds also include an air-conditioned building housing a wax museum that features lifelike statues of famous Thai monks, adding an educational and reflective dimension to the visit.

Even after his passing in 1970 at the age of 94, Phor Than Khlai’s influence endures. Attempts to cremate his body failed multiple times, and it was ultimately preserved. Today, his mummified body remains on display at Wat That Noi in Nakhon Si Thammarat, serving as a powerful reminder of his extraordinary life and spiritual legacy. Wat Manee Sri Mahathat stands as a peaceful, respectful tribute to a truly remarkable figure in Thai Buddhism.

We’ll bring you back to your hotel in Khao Lak just in time to enjoy one of the region’s famous sunsets—a perfect end to an enriching day. Before stepping off the minibus, please double-check that you have all your personal belongings with you. Thank you for choosing to explore with us! We hope you had a memorable experience and look forward to welcoming you again on your next adventure.