Wat Klang Kret, Bangkok

Ancient Mon architecture meets modern Bangkok at Wat Klang Kret, a Buddhist temple that stands as one of the few remaining examples of Mon cultural heritage in Thailand. This centuries-old temple occupies the center of Ko Kret island in the Chao Phraya River, where Mon people settled and built their community. The temple’s distinctive leaning chedi (pagoda) has become an iconic symbol of the island, its weathered brick structure telling stories of monsoons and time that have gradually shifted its foundation.

The temple complex features traditional Mon-style buildings with intricate wooden carvings and classic Thai temple elements blended with Mon influences. Walk through the main prayer hall to admire the principal Buddha image, surrounded by smaller statues and offerings from devoted locals. The famous tilting chedi dominates the courtyard, where you can observe its remarkable lean while monks in saffron robes go about their daily routines. Incense smoke drifts through the air, mixing with sounds of chanted prayers and temple bells. Local pottery workshops operate nearby, as Ko Kret is renowned for its traditional ceramic crafts, and you’ll often hear the rhythmic sounds of pottery wheels spinning.

Serenity pervades this riverside temple, enhanced by its island setting away from Bangkok’s traffic chaos. The pace here moves slowly, matching the gentle flow of the Chao Phraya around the island. Elderly Mon residents come to make merit and chat with neighbors, while monks welcome visitors with warm smiles. The combination of spiritual devotion and cultural preservation creates a deeply authentic atmosphere that feels worlds away from the bustling metropolis just across the water.

Visit during early morning or late afternoon to witness monks’ prayer sessions and avoid midday heat. Take a boat from Wat Sanam Neua pier in Pak Kret to reach Ko Kret island, then walk or rent a bicycle to explore. Dress modestly with covered shoulders and knees, remove shoes before entering buildings, and maintain respectful silence during prayer times. The temple visit pairs perfectly with exploring the island’s pottery villages and Mon cultural sites, making for a rich cultural experience just outside Bangkok.