Things to do
in Ban Krut
Wat Thang Sai – Built in 1996 for King Bhumibol
Constructed in 1996 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of King Bhumibol's accession to the throne, Wat Thang Sai sits on Thong Chai mountain and is topped by 9 golden chedis (one for each decade of the reign). It is considered one of the most beautiful temples in Thailand, though rarely visited by foreign tourists as it is off the beaten track. Open daily from 9:00 am, free entry. Dress modestly. Especially stunning at night on Thai holidays when it is lit up.
Phraphut Kiti Sirichai – The Golden Luang Por Yai
The massive golden Luang Por Yai statue (Phraphut Kiti Sirichai) was built alongside Wat Thang Sai. It sits on a wide terrace facing directly out to sea, giving one of the most iconic panoramic views of the bay. Drive or ride a scooter to the statue — from there it is about 100 metres on foot to the main temple. Most beautiful at sunrise and late afternoon when the gold catches the light.
Ban Krut Beach – 12 km, Two Sections, No Vendors
The beach splits into Ban Krut Nuea (north) and Ban Krut Tai (south) around Thong Chai hill. At 12 km long, it is shaded by coconut and casuarina trees. You will find a few sun loungers at some resorts but above all there is one thing here: peace. No water sports, no vendors, no noise. Bike rental is about 100 baht per day.
Bo Thong Lang Bay – Snorkelling & Sandbar
Located 18 km south of Ban Krut along the beach road, Bo Thong Lang Bay (Ao Bo Thong Lang) is 4 km wide with fine sand and shallow, clear water — known for snorkelling and exploring the underwater world. At low tide a sandbar appears, allowing you to walk out towards a small offshore islet. A few relaxed restaurants overlook the bay. Easy half-day trip by scooter or bicycle.
Wat Khao Tham Ma Rong – Bats & Buddhas
A short drive inland from Bo Thong Lang Bay is this cave temple. Steps lead up to caves filled with multiple Buddha images and — for part of the year — a colony of bats. The eerie atmosphere and the contrast between the jungle outside and the glowing figures inside make it a genuinely memorable stop on a scooter day.
Wat Tham Kiriwong – Double Cave, Few Visitors
Hidden in small hills north of Wat Thang Sai, Wat Tham Kiriwong hides two cave chambers with Buddha images and a reclining golden Buddha. Very few foreign visitors make it here. Take care on steps, bring a phone light for the dimly lit interior areas.
Cycling & Scootering – 20 km of Coastal Road
With very little traffic, Ban Krut is perfect for two-wheeled exploration. Bike rental is around 100 baht/day. The coast road gives access to fishing villages, estuaries, coconut farms and empty beaches north of Ban Krut. Morning rides are especially scenic. For longer trips south towards Bo Thong Lang Bay (18 km) a scooter is more practical.
Wat Ang Thong – Golden Chedi on AH2
If driving from Bangkok or Hua Hin along AH2 (Asian Highway 2), a large golden chedi catches the eye from the main road. Still under construction as of late 2022 and continuing, this newer temple makes a simple stop to stretch your legs before the final stretch to Ban Krut.