Wat Maha That Wachiramongkol (Wat Bang Thong)

Wat Maha That Wachiramongkol — universally called Wat Bang Thong — is a temple in the Ao Luek district of Krabi, and its landmark is hard to miss: a 95-metre golden chedi modelled on the Mahabodhi temple at Bodh Gaya, the tallest pagoda in southern Thailand. Entry is a small fee for foreigners, and it sits about 70 km from Krabi town, out in the countryside toward Ao Luek.

The golden chedi

The Phra Mahathat Chedi is the reason to come. Its Indian-inspired form — stepped and spire-topped like Bodh Gaya rather than the usual Thai bell shape — rises above the surrounding fields, and covered galleries run around all four sides at the base, lined with Buddha images. The chedi was built from 2002 to honour the 50th birthday of the then-Crown Prince (now King Rama X), and it’s what put this otherwise rural temple on the map. Outside stand two large statues: a standing Buddha and the much-revered southern monk Luang Phu Thuat.

Insider Tip: Combine it with Ao Luek’s natural sights — Than Bokkharani National Park’s emerald pools are close by — so the drive out from Krabi earns a fuller day rather than a single stop.

Visiting

It’s an active monastery about an hour from Krabi town by car or motorbike, with free parking. Pay the small entry fee, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered), and remove your shoes before entering the buildings. Early morning coincides with the monks’ chanting and alms and is the calmest time.

Watch out: It’s well off the beach circuit — a genuine countryside temple, not a Krabi-town sight — so plan the drive. And don’t be thrown by listings that place it in Phang Nga; Ao Luek is firmly in Krabi.

Wat Bang Thong is at 46 Moo 3, Na Nuea, Ao Luek District, Krabi 81110. View on Google Maps.