🔄 Updated 21 Jun 2026
Khao Takiab sits about 7 km south of central Hua Hin — a rocky hill roughly 270 m high that juts out into the sea. From the beach it looks like a green knoll at the far end, with a golden standing Buddha facing the water. Locals usually call it Monkey Mountain because crab-eating macaques live all over it. Free to visit, no entry fee.
What's up on the hill
- Standing Buddha by the sea — a golden image around 20 m tall near the foot of the hill, facing out over Hua Hin bay. It's the landmark you can spot from down on the beach.
- Wat Khao Takiab (Wat Khao Lat) — the temple on top, with a chedi and pavilions where people pray and make merit. Some call it the monkey temple because of all the macaques.
- Guanyin shrine — a blue, red and gold Chinese shrine with a thousand-armed Guanyin. A favourite stop for those who come to pray for luck.
- Viewpoint — looks north along the full sweep of Hua Hin beach. On a clear day you can see all the way to Cha-am.
Want more out of Prachuap Khiri Khan? Book tours & activities
Booking online ahead on Klook or GetYourGuide is usually cheaper than the gate and skips the queue. Pick only the experiences you actually want — prices and availability are shown live on each site.
Walk up or take a ride?
There are two ways up. The first is to climb the stairs from the parking area at the base. The steepest stretch is about 80 steps — not long, but the midday sun is harsh. The other option is to drive or take a tuk-tuk / motorbike up the road that winds through a small fishing village and parks right at the top. If you'd rather not climb, or you're bringing older folks along, the ride is the easier call.
- Climb the stairs — free, and you get the slow-build-up-to-the-view feeling, but it's tiring and hot in the middle of the day.
- Songthaew (shared truck) — from Hua Hin market to the foot of the hill, around ฿20 per person.
- Drive / tuk-tuk to the top — skips the stairs, good for families or anyone who can't manage the climb.
Watch the monkeys (this one really matters)
The macaques here are used to people and very quick with their hands. Don't hold food, sweet drinks, or brightly coloured plastic bags — the monkeys read those as snacks and will snatch them. Keep your phone, sunglasses and water bottle in a zipped bag worn close to your body. Don't stare them in the eye, don't reach out toward them, and don't feed them — the more they're fed, the bolder they get.
When to go
The nicest times are early morning and just before sunset — softer sun, a cool sea breeze, and good light from every angle. At midday the hill is open and exposed and the sun is brutal, so skip it if you can. The temple is open daily from morning until around 6 pm.
More to do nearby
Khao Takiab village
A small fishing village at the foot of the hill with several seafront seafood spots at fair prices — a good stop once you're back down.
Khao Takiab beach
A quieter stretch of sand than the main Hua Hin beach, easy for a relaxed walk along the water.
Cicada Market
An evening craft-and-food market about 3 km away, open Friday to Sunday.
Before you go
- Dress modestly enough for the temple — shoulders and knees covered.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to take the stairs.
- Bring water but keep it in your bag — don't hold it where the monkeys can see.
- Go early or late to dodge the sun and get the better views.
Plan the rest of your Hua Hin–Prachuap trip
See the Prachuap Khiri Khan guide →