Discover Tranquility at Wat Tham Pla: The Enchanting Fish Cave Temple
Experience the serene beauty and spiritual richness of Wat Tham Pla, the enchanting Fish Cave Temple in Chiang Rai, Thailand.
Nestled in the lush hills of Chiang Rai, Wat Tham Pla, also known as the Fish Cave Temple, offers a serene escape for tourists seeking a unique cultural experience. This Buddhist temple is renowned for its stunning natural surroundings and the vibrant fish that inhabit the caves, creating a picturesque setting perfect for reflection and exploration.
A brief summary to Wat Tham Pla (Fish Cave Temple)
- ถ้ำลิง วัด ถ้ำปลา, Mae Sai District, Pong Ngam, Chiang Rai, 57130, TH
- +66657181344
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and avoid crowds.
- Bring fish food to feed the sacred fish in the caves for a memorable experience.
- Dress modestly and respectfully, as this is a place of worship.
- Take your time exploring the temple grounds to fully appreciate the intricate details and serene surroundings.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are driving to Wat Tham Pla (Fish Cave Temple) from Chiang Rai city, take Route 1 (Phahonyothin Road) heading north. Continue for approximately 45 km until you reach Mae Sai District. Once in Mae Sai, follow signs to Pong Ngam. The temple is located at Pong Ngam, Mae Sai District. Look for the entrance, which is usually marked. Parking is available nearby, but be prepared for a small fee if applicable.
-
Public Transportation
To reach Wat Tham Pla using public transportation, take a bus from Chiang Rai bus station to Mae Sai. Buses run frequently and the journey takes about 1.5 hours. Once you arrive at Mae Sai bus station, you can take a local songthaew (shared taxi) to Pong Ngam. The fare for the songthaew is around 20-30 THB per person. Inform the driver that you want to go to Wat Tham Pla, and they will drop you off at the entrance.
-
Motorbike Rental
For a more adventurous route, consider renting a motorbike in Chiang Rai. Head north on Route 1 towards Mae Sai, following the same directions as for cars. The ride is scenic, taking approximately 1 hour. Ensure you wear a helmet and have a valid license. Rental costs are typically around 200-400 THB per day. Once you reach Mae Sai, follow the signs to Pong Ngam for the temple.
-
Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service
You can also opt for a taxi or a ride-hailing service like Grab from Chiang Rai to Wat Tham Pla. This is a more direct and comfortable option, especially if you are traveling in a group. The fare may range from 800 to 1200 THB depending on the time of day and demand. Ensure you confirm the price before starting your journey.
Discover more about Wat Tham Pla (Fish Cave Temple)
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Nich Hotel
13.1 km
Experience comfort and hospitality at The Nich Hotel in Tachileik, Myanmar, your gateway to explore local culture and stunning landscapes.
Mahar Golden Triangle Golf Resort
14.5 km
Experience a golfer's paradise at Mahar Golden Triangle Golf Resort, where nature's beauty meets exceptional golfing in Tachileik, Myanmar.
Ruak
16.5 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Ruak River, a hidden gem perfect for relaxation, outdoor adventures, and stunning natural scenery.
Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation
22.6 km
Discover the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation in Chiang Rai, where you can learn about elephant conservation and support rescued elephants in a beautiful setting.
Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort อนันตรา สามเหลี่ยมทองคำ แคมป์ช้าง แอนด์ รีสอร์ท
22.7 km
Experience luxury and adventure at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, where ethical elephant encounters and breathtaking views await in Thailand's Golden Triangle.
Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Thailand
22.8 km
Discover unparalleled luxury in the heart of Northern Thailand’s Golden Triangle at the Four Seasons Tented Camp.
The Golden Triangle Market
22.9 km
Explore the Golden Triangle Market in Chiang Saen District for an unforgettable shopping experience filled with local crafts, street food, and vibrant culture.
Golden Triangle in Myanmar
23.0 km
Discover the Golden Triangle in Myanmar, a captivating fusion of rich culture, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable experiences in Southeast Asia.
Golden Triangle Border Checkpoint
23.0 km
Explore the Golden Triangle Border Checkpoint, where Thailand meets Laos and Myanmar, offering a cultural crossroads and stunning river views.
Golden triangle special economic zone
23.5 km
Discover the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone: A hub of commerce and cultural fusion in Van Pak Len, showcasing Laos's vibrant economic growth.
Golden Triangle Immigration
23.7 km
Experience comfort and convenience at Golden Triangle Immigration, your perfect hotel base for exploring the rich culture of Myanmar.
Kings Romans Casino
24.4 km
Discover the thrill of gaming and vibrant entertainment at Kings Romans Casino in Van Pak Len, a unique cultural hub for tourists.
Laos Golden Triangle Tourism Culture and Agricultural
24.5 km
Experience the vibrant culture and agricultural heritage of Laos at the Golden Triangle, a stunning destination that showcases local traditions and breathtaking landscapes.
Kapok Star Hotel
24.5 km
Discover the epitome of luxury and comfort at Kapok Star Hotel in Van Pak Len, where exceptional service meets breathtaking views.
Phra Borommathat Buddhanimit Chedi
26.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Phra Borommathat Buddhanimit Chedi, a spiritual landmark in Chiang Rai, Thailand, offering breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Doi Tung
3.0 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Doi Tung, a majestic mountain peak in Chiang Rai, Thailand, rich in culture and stunning landscapes.
Wat Phra That Doi Tung Viewpoint
3.2 km
Experience the breathtaking vistas and spiritual serenity of Wat Phra That Doi Tung Viewpoint, a must-visit destination in Chiang Rai.
Phra That Doi Tung
3.2 km
Discover Phra That Doi Tung, a serene pagoda in Chiang Rai offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Thailand's rich cultural heritage.
Wat Phra That Doi Tung
3.9 km
Discover the majestic Wat Phra That Doi Tung, a stunning Buddhist temple in Chiang Rai, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views and rich cultural heritage.
Tham Luang Cave
5.7 km
Discover the breathtaking Tham Luang Cave in Chiang Rai, a stunning natural attraction rich in history and geological wonders.
Doi Tung Viewpoint Km 12
6.5 km
Discover the stunning natural beauty and serene atmosphere of Doi Tung Viewpoint in Chiang Rai, Thailand.
Mae Fah Luang Garden
7.1 km
Explore Mae Fah Luang Garden, a botanical paradise in Chiang Rai, showcasing stunning landscapes, rare flora, and cultural heritage.
Doi Tung Royal Villa, Mae Fah Luang
7.3 km
Experience the tranquility and royal heritage at Doi Tung Royal Villa in Chiang Rai, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Doi Pha Mi
7.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Doi Pha Mi, a mountain retreat in Chiang Rai, Thailand, offering stunning views and unique cultural experiences.
Akha Village
10.0 km
Experience the vibrant culture and traditions of the Akha people at Akha Village in Chiang Rai, a unique destination for cultural immersion and exploration.
Mae Sai Market
12.2 km
Discover local crafts and flavors at Mae Sai Market, a vibrant shopping destination near the Thai-Myanmar border.
Wat Tham Pha Chom
12.5 km
Explore the tranquility and breathtaking views of Wat Tham Pha Chom, a stunning Buddhist temple in Mae Sai, Chiang Rai, Thailand.
Wat Phra That Doi Wao
12.5 km
Experience the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking views at Wat Phra That Doi Wao, a serene Buddhist temple in Mae Sai, Chiang Rai.
The Northern Most of Thailand
12.8 km
Explore Mae Sai, Thailand's northernmost district, where lush landscapes meet vibrant culture and unforgettable experiences await every traveler.
City of the Golden Triangle
13.1 km
Explore the City of the Golden Triangle, where Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos meet in a vibrant cultural tapestry rich in history and natural beauty.
Essential places to dine
Phingpha Café & Restaurant
13.8 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Phingpha Café & Restaurant in Tachileik - where flavor meets hospitality in a charming setting.
BAAN MAI cafe & Restaurant : บ้านไม้ คาเฟ่
14.7 km
Experience authentic Northern Thai cuisine at Baan Mai Cafe & Restaurant in Mae Chan District - a must-visit culinary gem!
Somkid Restaurant&Cafe
16.1 km
Discover authentic Thai flavors at Somkid Restaurant & Cafe in Chiang Saen District - A must-visit for food lovers!
Baan Kid Ngern Restaurant Chiang Saen
17.5 km
Discover authentic Thai cuisine at Baan Kid Ngern Restaurant in Chiang Saen, where delicious flavors meet breathtaking views.
โกรัตน์ / Gorath Restaurant & Private Local Museum
20.2 km
Discover authentic Thai flavors and local culture at Gorath Restaurant & Private Museum in Mae Chan.
Samsarn Restuarant
22.7 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine amidst serene landscapes at Samsarn Restaurant in Chiang Saen, Chiang Rai.
Sala Mae Nam Restaurant
22.7 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine with breathtaking riverside views at Sala Mae Nam Restaurant in Chiang Rai.
RESTAURANT The Imperial Golden Triangle Resort
22.8 km
Discover authentic Thai cuisine amidst breathtaking landscapes at The Imperial Golden Triangle Resort in Chiang Rai.
The Border View Restaurant
22.8 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine fused with modern flavors at The Border View Restaurant in Chiang Saen.
Sriwan Coffee & Restaurant
22.9 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Sriwan Coffee & Restaurant in Chiang Rai's Golden Triangle - where flavor meets culture.
Golden View Restaurant
22.9 km
Discover authentic Thai cuisine at Golden View Restaurant with stunning views in Chiang Rai's enchanting landscape.
ร้านอาหารป้าหลง Aunt Long Restaurant
22.9 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Aunt Long Restaurant in Chiang Saen with stunning views of the Golden Triangle.
Mekong Pizza
22.9 km
Savor delicious pizzas and local flavors at Mekong Pizza in Chiang Saen - where culinary tradition meets creativity.
เวลาใต้ร่มไม้ Cafe' & Eatery - waylatairommai
22.9 km
Discover authentic Thai cuisine at เวลาใต้ร่มไม้ Cafe' & Eatery in Chiang Rai—where every bite tells a story amidst serene surroundings.
MADOO BAR by Rimkhong มาดูบาร์ บาย ริมโขง
23.5 km
Discover MADOO BAR by Rimkhong: A riverside haven for authentic Thai cuisine and stunning views in Chiang Saen.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Star Doi Coffee
16.7 km
Discover the perfect blend of coffee and breathtaking views at Star Doi Coffee in Chiang Saen.
Golden Triangle Shopping Center
23.0 km
Discover a vibrant shopping experience at Golden Triangle Shopping Center in Chiang Rai, where culture and modern commerce meet.
Doi Chiang Coffee
23.0 km
Experience the essence of Chiang Rai's coffee culture at Doi Chiang Coffee, where every cup tells a story of the local hills.
Mekong Life Café
23.0 km
Discover tranquility at Mekong Life Café, where delicious coffee meets stunning views along the Mekong River in Chiang Saen, Thailand.
Wet Market
24.4 km
Experience the authentic flavors and vibrant culture at the Wet Market in Van Pak Len, a must-visit destination for all food lovers and culture enthusiasts.
Tang Ren International Shopping Mall
24.5 km
Uncover a shopping paradise in Van Pak Len at Tang Ren International Shopping Mall, where local culture meets modern retail.
最黑的物业-东方美食街
24.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Dongfang Food Street in the Lao Golden Triangle, where every dish tells a story of culture and tradition.
Tribal colors hand made
37.5 km
Discover the beauty of Chiang Rai through handcrafted treasures at Tribal Colors Hand Made, where artistry meets tradition.
Big C Supercenter Chiang Rai 2 Airport
41.2 km
Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Big C Supercenter Chiang Rai, where local flavors meet global goods in a family-friendly atmosphere.
European Antique and Vintage Chiang Rai
44.3 km
Explore a unique collection of vintage items and antiques at European Antique and Vintage in Chiang Rai, a treasure trove of history and charm.
Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, Bistro & Bar
45.4 km
Experience the charm of Chiang Rai at Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, Bistro & Bar, where exquisite flavors meet serene surroundings.
Riva Vista Riverfront Chiang Rai
45.5 km
Experience serene luxury at Riva Vista Riverfront Chiang Rai, where stunning river views and exquisite comfort create unforgettable memories.
Imperial River House Resort
45.6 km
Discover unparalleled comfort and stunning riverside views at the Imperial River House Resort in Chiang Rai, Thailand.
Vanali vanilla
46.0 km
Experience the enchanting world of vanilla at Vanali Vanilla, a charming farm shop in Chiang Rai blending local culture with delightful flavors.
Greenbandicoot weed
46.2 km
Discover premium cannabis offerings at Greenbandicoot Weed in Chiang Rai, where quality meets a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Romantic Restaurants
14.8 km
Discover the romantic restaurants of Tachileik, where exquisite cuisine and enchanting ambiance create unforgettable dining experiences for couples.
Viang Yonok Hotel
20.9 km
Experience the tranquility of Viang Yonok Hotel by Chiang Saen Lake, where comfort meets the beauty of nature.
Burma Bar
22.8 km
Discover the elegance of Burma Bar in Chiang Saen, where exquisite wines and a serene ambiance create an unforgettable experience.
Imperial Golden Triangle Resort
22.8 km
Discover the tranquility and cultural richness of the Golden Triangle at the Imperial Golden Triangle Resort, Chiang Rai's serene getaway.
酒肆餐饮服务有限公司
24.5 km
Discover the local bar culture at 酒肆餐饮服务有限公司 in Laos' Golden Triangle, where vibrant nightlife and unique drinks await.
i เหลียน
24.7 km
Discover the lively bar scene at i เหลียน in Van Pak Len, where great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await every visitor.
TAOKAE BINGSU CAFE
24.9 km
Experience the refreshing flavors of Taokae Bingsu Cafe in Tonpheung, where delightful shaved ice desserts meet a cozy bar atmosphere.
띤빼
25.0 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Tonpheung at 띤빼, a lively bar offering a blend of local culture and refreshing drinks.
พับ
25.1 km
Discover the lively nightlife at พับ in Tonpheung, where local culture and vibrant drinks create an unforgettable experience.
Yieminsoe
25.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tonpheung at Yieminsoe, a charming bar offering a taste of local culture and delicious drinks.
金钻酒吧
25.4 km
Discover the lively nightlife of 金钻酒吧 in Laos' Golden Triangle, where local culture meets modern vibes for an unforgettable experience.
ໂຮງານນ້ຳດື່ມວັງຄຳ
25.5 km
Explore Tonpheung's vibrant nightlife at ໂຮງານນ້ຳດື່ມວັງຄຳ, a lively bar offering refreshing drinks and a warm atmosphere for travelers.
ຮ້ານອາຫານ ເດິຄີງ the khing
26.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at ຮ້ານອາຫານ ເດິຄີງ the khing, a must-visit bar in Tonpheung, Laos.
Vinyl & Wine
45.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of music and fine wine at Vinyl & Wine, a unique bar experience in the heart of Chiang Rai.
Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort, Thailand
45.4 km
Discover the luxury and tranquility of Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort, set amidst breathtaking landscapes and rich Thai culture.
