Phu Tham Phra

Phu Tham Phra is a cave system in the Yasothon province of northeastern Thailand. It is unique and interesting because it has natural beauty and religious importance. If you are going to Yasothon, you must visit Phu Tham Phra which is a combination of peace as a spiritual place and excitement as an adventurous cave.

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History of Phu Tham Phra

Phu Tham Phra, or the “Mountain Cave of the Buddha,” in Yasothon province has a long history with Buddhism and meditation. The cave contains images of Buddhas and religious objects, which suggests that it was used for worship and meditation by monks and laypeople throughout the ages.

It is possible that this cave was part of a wider religious tradition where people went to practice their spirituality in isolation. Because of this, Phu Tham Phra has become a legend among locals and holds great cultural significance.

History of Phu Tham Phra

Today, it is visited by many who wish to see its natural beauty such as stalactites and stalagmites while also feeling its spiritual atmosphere. Local authorities are working towards preserving both cultural and natural heritage of the cave so that it can be accessed by future generations without being harmed. Visitors can enjoy a unique combination of natural beauty and religious history at Phu Tham Phra.

About Phu Tham Phra

Phu Tham Phra is a big cave, around 3 wa wide and about 8 wa long, located on the southern slope of the mountain. There is an entrance along the rock niche which is majestically located around a tunnel; from the mouth of the cave to the north you can walk comfortably. 

Tham Phra Buddha Cave has 2 levels of nature as a place to be enshrined of Buddha statues, which are lined up in rows and there are 2 reclining Buddha images, Phra Kajjana Buddha images, built during the reign of Ajarn Dee Chano in this beautiful cave.

About Phu Tham Phra

Moreover, Phu Tham Phra is also a small mountainous area. The area is about 200 rai with mixed deciduous forests that are generally quite complete, providing shady cool weather. It is the watershed source of many creeks. The stone pillar looks like a tourist attraction of Phu Pha Thoep. 

About Phu Tham Phra

And there is a viewpoint as a beautiful natural source near the ascent, there will be a brick arch to be "Phu Ngo", the locals call Khong Gate which is located in the north of Phu Tham Phra about 1 kilometer away. Currently only ruins remain.

The sanctity of Phu Tham Phra that has been passed down from generation to generation is that if villagers in that area go out to find forest products; they must come to this cave to worship. Then there will be luck in making a living and escaping from all dangers.

Traveling cost in Phu Tham Phra

The cost of visiting Phu Tham Phra in Yasothon province, Thailand, varies according to travel arrangements and personal preferences. Here's a quick overview:

Transportation

• International flights to Thailand vary greatly based on your starting place. Once in Thailand, buses are the most cost-effective way to go to Yasothon, costing around THB 300-800 ($10-$25).
• Local Transportation: Getting about Yasothon by tuk-tuk or songthaew typically costs between THB 20 and 100 ($1 to $3).

Accommodation

• Budget Hotels/Guesthouses: These cost between THB 200 and 800 per night ($6 to $25), depending on the level of comfort and location.
• Mid-range hotels generally cost between THB 1,000 and THB 2,000 ($30 to $60).

Food & Drink

• Street Food/Markets: An economical choice, with lunches ranging from THB 30-100 ($1-$3).
• Mid-Range Restaurants: Expect to pay between THB 150 and 300 each dinner ($5 to $10).

Activities and Entry Fees

• Entrance Fees: Many caverns and attractions charge between THB 20 and 100 ($1 to $3).
• Guided Tours: The cost ranges from THB 300 to 1,000 ($10 to $30), depending on the time and inclusions.

Best time to visit Phu Tham Phra

Opening time: From 9:00 to 16:00 daily

The best time to go to Phu Tham Phra is from November to February. The temperature during these months is around 20°C to 30°C. Also, the chance of rain is very low which makes it safe for people who want to explore the cave and its surrounding areas.

Best time to visit Phu Tham Phra

This period falls under Thailand’s dry season so there are lesser chances of travel getting disrupted due to bad weather conditions. Although it is a peak tourist season, Phu Tham Phra usually does not get as crowded as other popular tourist destinations do at this time of year. Moreover, many local festivals and cultural events take place during this season which can make your trip more interesting.

How to get to Phu Tham Phra

To reach Phu Tham Phra in Yasothon province, Thailand, travel to Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi (BKK) or Don Mueang (DMK) airports. Then, take a domestic flight to Ubon Ratchathani Airport (UBP), which is around an hour away. From Ubon Ratchathani, take a bus or cab to Yasothon, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.

If going by land, you may take a direct bus from Bangkok's Mo Chit Bus Terminal to Yasothon, which takes 8-10 hours, or take a train to Ubon Ratchathani and then transfer to a bus or cab to Yasothon.

Phu Tham Phra is easily accessible from Yasothon via taxi, bus, or rental vehicle. Because the cave is in a rural location, having a map or GPS is useful.

Local guides or your lodging provider can also help with transportation arrangements. Hiring a guide can improve your visit. This quick guide will help you plan your trip to Phu Tham Phra.

Read more: Thailand Tours 25 days