Wat Tham Khao Noi is located in Ban Nong Tao Poon, Moo 7, Kui Nuea Subdistrict, Kui Buri District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. It is affiliated with the Thammayut Nikaya order. Set across an expansive area of 62 rai and 2 ngan, this temple has a long and storied history. It was first established as a temple in 1940 (B.E. 2483). Before that, Wat Tham Khao Noi had been abandoned, but in 1937 (B.E. 2480), a wandering monk arrived at the site. The residents of Nong Tao Poon village invited him to stay, leading to the revitalization of the temple. A pavilion for merit-making was then built inside the cave in 1940. Wat Tham Khao Noi officially received its consecrated boundaries on August 22, 2014.

 

The temple comprises several significant structures and buildings, including:

- Sermon Hall: This wooden building measures 10 meters wide by 20 meters long and was built in 1940. It serves as a venue for religious ceremonies and important community events.

 

- Monks’ Residences: There are five half-wooden, half-concrete buildings that provide living quarters for the monks.

 

- Multi-Purpose Pavilion: A large wooden structure, 18 meters wide and 30 meters long, used for various community and temple activities.

 

- Prayer Hall: Constructed in 1990, this reinforced concrete building measures 18 meters wide by 36 meters long and serves as a place for prayer and religious ceremonies.

 

- Merit-Making Pavilion: A wooden pavilion that is used for merit-making ceremonies and other religious events.

 

- Vihara of Luang Pho Si Mek: This vihara houses the revered statue of Luang Pho Si Mek, a significant object of worship within the temple.

 

- Kitchen: Used for preparing meals during merit-making events and religious ceremonies.

 

Wat Tham Khao Noi is home to ancient artifacts and important religious items, such as Buddha statues from the Lopburi and U-Thong periods, preserving the beauty and history of these artistic eras. These statues, displayed within the cave, are a testament to the spread of Buddhism in ancient times and continue to be objects of reverence for both locals and visitors.

 

This temple offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for meditation and exploring historical religious sites amidst a serene natural setting. Visitors are welcome to explore the temple’s history, make merit, pay homage to the ancient Buddha statues, and appreciate the scenic and spiritual surroundings. Wat Tham Khao Noi is thus an essential historical and religious attraction in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province.