🔄 Updated 21 Jun 2026
If you're in Chanthaburi and want a spot that gives you both merit and a view, Wat Khao Sukim delivers. The temple sits on a hillside in Khao Phloi Si subdistrict, Tha Mai district, about 30 km from Chanthaburi town — roughly a half-hour drive. What makes this temple stick in people's memory is the way its buildings stretch along the slope, with naga staircases climbing up in tiers, and an open view that looks out over distant ridgelines.
The temple was founded by Luang Por Somchai Thitaviriyo, a meditation master with devoted followers all over Thailand. He has since passed away, but the temple still keeps his body and belongings here for visitors to pay respects. The overall mood is quiet and still, better suited to people who want to sit and settle their mind than to anyone after a busy, crowded temple.
Take the Tram Up, or Climb the Naga Staircase
The temple is up on the hill, and there are two ways to get up. The first is to walk the naga staircase that climbs the slope in roughly 349 steps — anyone fit who wants the exercise and some photos along the way will enjoy it. If you can't manage the climb, or you're with older relatives, the temple runs an electric tram that ferries you up and down. It's very convenient and saves you the effort.
- Electric tram — shuttles you up and down the hill, good for older visitors, small children, or hot days
- Naga staircase ~349 steps — for people who like to walk, with nice photo angles along the way
- Dress modestly — it's a temple, so wear sleeved tops and trousers or a skirt that covers the knees
Tip
If you're with older relatives, take the tram up and walk the staircase down for photos — you get the comfort and the view both ways. The morning sun in Chanthaburi gets strong by mid-morning, so bring an umbrella or hat and some drinking water.
Want more out of Chanthaburi? 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.
Pay Respects and Honor Luang Por Somchai
Up at the temple there's an ordination hall, a viharn, and an enshrined Buddha relic to venerate. Most people who come up are here to pay respects to Luang Por Somchai's body, which the temple preserves, and to ask for blessings around mindfulness, work, and study. The atmosphere up top is quiet, the breeze is cool, and you look out at the mountains as a backdrop — a spot many people say genuinely calms them once they're up there.
Wat Khao Sukim's sacred amulets are popular among collectors, especially the coins and amulets from Luang Por Somchai's lineage. If you're interested you can make a donation to receive one at the temple — a meaningful thing to take home with you.
The Wat Khao Sukim Museum
The highlight that sets this temple apart from your typical hilltop temple is the museum, which gathers a large number of collectibles and antiques donated by devoted followers. It's an easy, enjoyable walk-through — almost like stepping into the temple's own small treasure room.
Antique Buddha images
Old Buddha images from many eras and in many postures, donated and collected by followers
Chinese ceramics
Old Chinese bowls and blue-and-white porcelain, plus gongs, jars, and antique everyday objects
Wax figures of revered monks
Wax models of revered monks, lifelike enough to catch many visitors off guard
Before you visit the museum
The museum's opening hours may not match the temple's exactly — at times it closes for breaks or only opens when someone is around to staff it. If you're coming specifically for the museum, ask the temple staff first or call ahead to be sure.
Chanthaburi Mountain Views & Photo Spots
The real charm of Wat Khao Sukim is the view, because the temple clings to the hillside. Once you reach the upper terrace you'll see green ridges stretching into the distance, dotted with villagers' orchards and farm plots. Early morning is cool and pleasant with lovely light, making it the best time for photos. The angle people love most is the naga staircase running down the slope, and the wide terrace that opens out onto the view.
- Early morning 07:00–10:00 — soft light, cool air, fewer people, great for photos
- Naga staircase — the most popular angle, shoot it running down the slope
- Upper viewpoint terrace — long mountain views, a good place to sit, catch the breeze, and rest
Getting to Wat Khao Sukim
The temple is in Khao Phloi Si subdistrict, Tha Mai district, about 30 km from Chanthaburi town — roughly a 30–40 minute drive. The roads are easy, and driving yourself is by far the best option, since public transport doesn't reach the area easily.
From Chanthaburi Town
Opening Hours
The temple is open daily, roughly 06:30–17:00. Morning to mid-morning is best — it's cooler and the light is good for photos. Allow about 1–2 hours to walk the museum and take in the views.
Wat Khao Sukim pairs easily with other stops along the Tha Mai route. You can add Phlio Waterfall, the sea at Laem Sing, or loop back into town for seafood and a walk through the Chanthaboon riverside community — it all fits neatly into one day.
Plan a full Chanthaburi trip with temples, sea, and food
See the Chanthaburi travel guide →