Wat Simalai Songtham is an extraordinary, surreal Buddhist temple built on a hill in the Pak Chong District of Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand.
It is hard for a normal person to comprehend how someone came up with all the things on display in this temple, including many live peacocks on the upper floors.
The hike up is very steep and dangerous, so please take your time.
Located roughly 12 kilometers from the northern entrance of Khao Yai National Park, this hidden gem stands out for its highly intricate, eclectic architecture that seamlessly blends Buddhist, Hindu, and animist traditions into a fairy-tale-like setting.
Key Features & What to See
The architecture and stucco sculptures combine Thai, Khmer, Chinese, Indian, and Tibetan artistic styles. Every surface is highly detailed, featuring everything from traditional Buddha images to structures decorated with coins.
Phra Borommathat Chedi: A spectacular pagoda towering over the hill. You can ascend to the top via a 227-step Naga staircase to enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the Khao Yai countryside.
Deep Caves.
Originally a monastery where monks practiced dharma, the site retains deep caves with stalactites that remain popular for peaceful meditation.
Massive Statues:
The temple grounds feature immense statues of revered Thai monks, including an 11-meter-high statue of Luang Por Koon.
Visitor Information
Admission: Free.
Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (some sources note up to 6:00 PM).
Getting to the Top: The climb up the hill can be quite steep and physically demanding. If you prefer not to walk, local open-air trucks provide a shuttle service to the summit for 30 THB per person.
Address: 149 Moo 15, Tambon Mu Si, Amphoe Pak Chong, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130.
Transportation:
There is limited public transit directly to the gates, so the easiest way to arrive is via personal car or motorbike.
If using public transport, travelers typically take a bus or minivan to Pak Chong, followed by a local songthaew (shared taxi) to the Mu Si area Located roughly 12 kilometers from the northern entrance of Khao Yai National Park.
See the full temple tour here on Youtube
