Wat Bang Thong
A Spectacular Buddhist Temple in Krabi Province
Wat Bang Thong, officially known as Wat Mahathat Wachiramongkol, is one of the most spectacular Buddhist temples in Krabi Province.
Located in Na Nuea, in the Ao Luek District, the temple sits in a rural setting surrounded by plantations and countryside, about 70 km from Krabi Town. Its most impressive feature is the enormous golden Phra Mahathat Chedi, inspired by the Mahabodhi Temple at Bodh Gaya in India and rising about 95 metres above the temple grounds.
The dazzling pagoda has made Wat Bang Thong one of Krabi's most recognisable landmarks, but there is much more to see around the extensive complex. With its ornate buildings, Buddha images, colourful decorations and peaceful surroundings, the temple is well worth visiting for anyone interested in Thai Buddhist architecture and culture.
History of Wat Bang Thong
Wat Bang Thong was established in 1940 on land donated by three local residents, and was originally named after the nearby village. For many years it was a relatively modest local temple, surrounded by rubber and palm plantations.
Its transformation began in 2002, when a major project was launched to create a Buddhist centre and construct the magnificent Phra Mahathat Chedi in honour of the 50th birthday of Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, who later became King Rama X. The golden chedi was inspired by the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, where Buddha is traditionally believed to have attained enlightenment.
In 2006, the temple was officially given its present name, Wat Mahathat Wachiramongkol. The modern complex has since become one of Krabi's most important religious and cultural attractions.
What to Expect at Wat Bang Thong
The huge golden chedi is naturally the first thing that catches your eye, but take time to explore the rest of the temple grounds. The Phra Mahathat Chedi is surrounded on all four sides by covered galleries lined with numerous Buddha images, while its interior features a large central Buddha image and beautifully decorated walls. The main ubosot, or ordination hall, is another impressive building, with elaborate Thai decoration and the royal initials displayed on its gable.
Around the complex you will find additional Buddhist shrines, statues and smaller buildings, including large images of the Buddha and the revered monk Luang Pu Thuat. The combination of Thai and Indian-inspired architecture makes the temple particularly photogenic, while the spacious grounds give you plenty of time to wander around and appreciate the details.
Summary
Wat Bang Thong is one of those places that makes you appreciate how much there is to discover away from Krabi's famous beaches and islands. The enormous golden chedi is the obvious highlight, but the scale of the complex, its beautifully decorated buildings, numerous Buddha images and peaceful rural surroundings make a visit worthwhile even if you are not particularly interested in religious architecture.
The temple is around an hour's drive from Krabi Town and Ao Nang, making it easy to combine with other attractions in the area. It can also be visited on a day trip from Phuket by car, although the drive is considerably longer and you should allow several hours for the round trip. If you are exploring Krabi by road, however, Wat Bang Thong is a memorable stop and one of the province's most impressive temples.
Wat Bang Thong Photos
Wat Bang Thong Map
Passionate about photography since the mid-2000s, I’ve spent years capturing the beauty of Phuket and southern Thailand — from beaches and islands to festivals and daily life. My work reflects a lasting love for the region and its ever-changing light.
Last visit & photos: Wat Bang Thong — 6 January 2019
