Thailand is home to numerous Buddhist temples, each with its own distinct charm. Among these, Wat Bang Kung stands out as a unique and fascinating destination.

Wat Bang Kung is a famous Buddhist temple located in the Amphawa district of Samut Songkhram province in Thailand. The temple holds historical and cultural significance and is a popular tourist attraction.

History of Wat Bang Kung

Wat Bang Kung dates back to the Ayutthaya kingdom. The small temple served as a spiritual center for the soldiers of this naval fort near the Mae Khlong River. General Taksin, who later became King Taksin of the kingdom of Thonburi, led the Siamese army from Bang Kung into battle with Burmese forces, and the area was part of the battlefield. The Burmese then withdrew in 1768.

After the war, when General Taksin and his troops left the camp, banyan trees flourished in the area and consumed the small temple of Bang Kung. In 1967, as part of the bicentenary celebrations, the site was restored by the Thai government and statues of King Taksin and the soldiers were erected in the area.

Attractions of Wat Bang Kung

Temple beneath tree

Located just beyond the entrance to Wat Bang Kung is the iconic Shrine hidden beneath the branches and roots of the trees. The room, not surprisingly, is widely known as Bot Prok Pho (meaning Shrine covered by the Bodhi tree). Inside, the famous golden statue of Buddha Nila Manee is enshrined. It’s not unusual that in such a peaceful spot, many Thais visit the shrine daily to venerate the figure. And if you have a little time, don’t forget to gild the gold leaf on the statue for good luck, as the locals do!

Muay Thai figures

Male figures in pairs, shirtless and wearing blue shorts, line both sides of the small street inside the enclosure. Apparently, these statues displayed the different positions of Muay Thai. Thai boxing is part of Thai history and culture, and played a crucial role in the Burmese-Siamese war.

General Taksin and the roosters

There are a few statues on the site, but the one that catches the tourist’s eye is the huge building with the statue of a seated general Taksin with his sword in his lap, who seems to be looking out over a veranda. In front of him are statues of roosters of various sizes.

Mini-zoo

Walking further, you may find it a little random when you discover a vintage aircraft exhibition and the zoo. Here, there are stables and goats. You can even find camels, ostriches, crocodiles and black bears!

How to get there

Wat Khai Bang Kung is located on the road along the west bank of the Mae Khlong River, six kilometers north of Amphawa. You can cycle there or hire a tuk tuk or motorboat in Amphawa to take you there and back, or you can make it part of a day trip that could also include some attractions of Samut Songkhram.

Opening Hours

Wat Bang Kung is open daily from 7 AM to 5 PM.

Overall, Wat Bang Kung is not only a place of religious significance but also a testament to the resilience of nature. The banyan trees that have grown around the temple over time have become an integral part of its allure, creating a harmonious blend of architecture and natural elements. Feel free to contact Thai Unika Travel for more information about a trip to the Land of Smile.