A sacred cave temple in Nan Province, Thailand
Na Noi District, Nan — a sanctuary shaped by devotion
Wat Tham Chetawan — locally known as Wat Kruba Noi — lies in a valley at Ban Chetawan, Tambon San Tha, in the Na Noi District of Nan Province. Once a neglected cave site, it was opened up and built into a temple by Kruba Noi Yanwichai around 2012–2013, and has since become a place of pilgrimage.
It was formally established on 28 February 2023 as a non-royal temple (wat rat) of the Maha Nikaya order, and received its consecrated boundary (visungkhamasima) on 25 March 2025. Its buildings blend Lanna and Burmese styles.
Two caves. The small one, always open, holds ancient Lanna inscriptions; the large cave, where Kruba Noi kept his three-year retreat, is now tiled and lit, with easy steps down among the stalactites.
The large cave is gated at night — visit during the day.
The temple’s principal reliquary stupa, built in 2023 — a focal point for prayer and meditation.
A white reclining Buddha about 15 metres long, robed in gold, set on the hillside and visible from afar.
A replica of Myanmar’s Golden Rock, reflecting the temple’s Lanna–Burmese lineage.
A white naga stairway rising to the sacred precinct — a favourite spot for photographs.
Kruba Noi’s requisites and personal effects — including his bicycle — with old coins, silverware and a sword. Free admission.
The temple sits in a valley about 30 km from Na Noi town. The road is paved but winds through the hills — please drive carefully.
Location: Ban Chetawan, Moo 1, Tambon San Tha, Na Noi District, Nan 55150
