Why should you go there and how do you do it right?

Hidden away in the village of Ban Tha Daeng in Tambon Na Toei lies Wat Thettharamnawa – commonly known as Wat Tha Sai – a traditional Buddhist temple serving the local communities of Phang-nga province. Located not far from the more popular tourist centers of Khao Lak, it offers travelers a quieter and more authentic encounter with Thai religious culture away from the crowds.

Visitors can expect a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere, typical of an active community temple. The grounds reflect the religious life of the surrounding villages, with shrines, Buddha statues, and an authentic, vibrant character that distinguishes a place of genuine devotion from a tourist attraction. The consistently positive visitor reviews suggest that those who make the effort to visit the temple find a quiet enrichment there.

As with all Buddhist temples in Thailand, visitors should dress respectfully – shoulders and knees should be covered – and remove their shoes before entering the buildings or shrines. There are no official opening hours; therefore, visiting on a weekday morning during daylight hours is usually the best option. The temple does not have a website, so it is best to ask for directions locally or at your accommodation in Khao Lak, as the address is in a rural area where signage may not be optimal.