The staircase leading to the cave consists of 269 steps. From the head of the Naga to the dragon, there are 114 steps, and from the mouth of the dragon to its tail, there are 105 steps. Continuing into the cave adds 50 more steps, making this journey perfect for travelers eager to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Wat Ban Tham is one of the most significant ancient Buddhist sites in Kanchanaburi province. It was registered with the Department of Religious Affairs in the year 1782 (B.E. 2325) and currently spans an area of 25 rai, 3 ngan, and 38 square wa. The Fine Arts Department conducted a survey of the site in 1949 (B.E. 2492), where Phra Ya Anuman Ratchathan, the then Director-General, hypothesized that this temple was built during the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya periods due to the Sukhothai-era Buddha statues found inside the cave and the ancient sermon hall. The sandstone Buddha statues date back to the Ayutthaya period. The path leading into the cave is a staircase that extends deep into the mouth of the large dragon. Inside the cave, one can find the impressive Phra Phuttha Yai Chin Rat and various ancient artifacts, as well as a stalagmite that resembles a woman, believed to be Nang Bua Klee, the wife of Khun Phan, based on the historical legend of Khun Chang Khun Phan. At the summit, there are also several other caves adorned with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.
Wat Ban Tham
Province: Kanchanaburi