Wat Bang Thong (Wat Mahathat Wachiramongkol)
Tinnawut Kaewnikhom
Last updated: 5 Sept 2025
18 Views
Wat Bang Thong, officially known as Wat Mahathat Wachiramongkol, is an ancient temple and a spiritual center for Buddhists in Krabi Province. Here is a summary of its history.
History of Construction and Development
Establishment (1940): The temple, originally named "Wat Bang Thong," was founded in approximately 1940 on a plot of over 100 rai (about 40 acres) of land donated by three local residents: Mr. Plao Thongsiri, Mr. Man Phengkit, and Mr. Nuam Damphan. Phra Samut Seng Yanapalo served as its first abbot.
Revival Period (2002): The temple fell into disrepair over time. In 2002, a project was initiated to construct a new Buddhist sanctuary and a royal pagoda (Phra Mahathat Chedi) to honor His Majesty the King (then the Crown Prince) on the occasion of his 50th birthday.
Royal Name Bestowal: Later, His Majesty the King graciously bestowed the new name "Wat Mahathat Wachiramongkol," a name that signifies great auspiciousness.
Highlights and Significance
The Royal Commemorative Pagoda (Phra Mahathat Chedi): This is a massive golden pagoda with a height of 95 meters, making it the tallest pagoda in Southern Thailand. Its design is influenced by the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, India. The interior is decorated with beautiful murals depicting the life of the Buddha.
Status as a Royal Temple: On March 23, 2025, Wat Mahathat Wachiramongkol was elevated to the status of a third-class royal temple (Phra Aram Luang Chan Tri, Chan Saman) to commemorate His Majesty the Kings birthday on July 28, 2024.
As a Tourist Destination: In addition to its role as a religious center, the temple's magnificent architecture has made it a major cultural and tourist destination in Krabi Province, attracting both Thai and international visitors who come to pay respect and admire its beauty.
History of Construction and Development
Establishment (1940): The temple, originally named "Wat Bang Thong," was founded in approximately 1940 on a plot of over 100 rai (about 40 acres) of land donated by three local residents: Mr. Plao Thongsiri, Mr. Man Phengkit, and Mr. Nuam Damphan. Phra Samut Seng Yanapalo served as its first abbot.
Revival Period (2002): The temple fell into disrepair over time. In 2002, a project was initiated to construct a new Buddhist sanctuary and a royal pagoda (Phra Mahathat Chedi) to honor His Majesty the King (then the Crown Prince) on the occasion of his 50th birthday.
Royal Name Bestowal: Later, His Majesty the King graciously bestowed the new name "Wat Mahathat Wachiramongkol," a name that signifies great auspiciousness.
Highlights and Significance
The Royal Commemorative Pagoda (Phra Mahathat Chedi): This is a massive golden pagoda with a height of 95 meters, making it the tallest pagoda in Southern Thailand. Its design is influenced by the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, India. The interior is decorated with beautiful murals depicting the life of the Buddha.
Status as a Royal Temple: On March 23, 2025, Wat Mahathat Wachiramongkol was elevated to the status of a third-class royal temple (Phra Aram Luang Chan Tri, Chan Saman) to commemorate His Majesty the Kings birthday on July 28, 2024.
As a Tourist Destination: In addition to its role as a religious center, the temple's magnificent architecture has made it a major cultural and tourist destination in Krabi Province, attracting both Thai and international visitors who come to pay respect and admire its beauty.
