Wat Huay Mongkol is a must see temple in Hua Hin, originally called "Wat Huay Khot". The temple is situated in Ban Huay Khot area, about 15 km from Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan.
Wat Huay Mongkol temple has the largest statue of the Buddhist monk called "Luang Phor Thuad", who lived from 1582 to 1682. The holy monk is very well known in Southern Thailand for converting sea water to fresh water by foot.
The magnificent statue, which is about 11.5 meters height and 9.9 meters width, is set on a large mound. There is an equestrian monument for King Taksin the Great in front of the huge statue of the monk.
There are two huge wooden 3-headed elephants on each side of the statue. Local people like walking in circles 3 times underneath the elephant's belly wishing for good fortune.
Guide for praying procedures at Wat Huay Mongkol temple
Let’s do it like locals do at Wat Huay Mongkol temple.
You can get the "donation kit" which includes flowers, gold and incense sticks for just a small donation at Wat Huay Mongkol temple. Then join the locals and walk 3 times under the big wooden elephant for your wish to come true. After that you can climb up the steep steps to the top and pay homage to the Buddhist monk by kneeling down, praying and putting the flowers in front of the statue.
In a short walk, Wat Huay Mongkol has decorated temple surroundings with a lovely lake and beautiful garden, where you can feed the fish and have a picnic.
It also has an artificial waterfall and cave called "Than Mongkol Cave" (th:ถ้ำธารมงคล)
There is a Buddhist temple and stalls selling offerings and snacks in the complex of Wat Huay Mongkol. In case you are interested, the Buddhist amulets can be bought here, but you should remember that they are only for religious purpose so you should respect the amulets you bought.
The place is really interesting, even if it is more intended for locals than tourists as Wat Huay Mongkol is one of the most popular and sacred places for many Thais from all over the country.
Wat Huay Mongkol is good for a short visit, if you are staying in Hua Hin. We spent about one hour there but you can stay longer. There is no entry fee. The temple is open daily from 5 am to 9 pm.
How to get there
Private car
From Hua Hin, take the Nong Plub - Pa La Ou route (Highway 3218). It's about 14 km to Tabtai sub-district, turn left at Nong Taphao Intersection, then go straight all the way until arrive at Wat Huay Mongkol Temple.
Public Transport
There is no public transport to access Wat Huay Mongkol. You have to hire a songtaew or tuk-tuk from Hua Hin. Renting a motorbike and driving there by yourself can be worth it. The temple is quite far from the town.
Tips
- Please read Etiquette for Visiting Temples in Thailand - Thai Temple Rules
- Try to avoid weekend and holiday crowds.
- Be prepared for a hot and humid day.
- Put on sunscreen and dress appropriately.
- Wear comfortable shoes because you need to take them off.
About Hua Hin
Hua Hin, meaning ‘stone head’, is a seaside resort city in Thailand, only about 200 km south of Bangkok. It’s the oldest and most traditional holiday resort in Thailand. Here you can find the comfort and attractions of a modern travel destination mixed with the charm of still active fishing port. Hua Hin is popular not only with foreigners but with Thais too, especially Bangkok residents.