Wat Sang Kratai

Wat Sang Kra Tai is an ancient temple located in Sala Daeng Subdistrict, Ang Thong Province. Formerly known as Wat Sam Kra Tai, this temple is situated just 2 kilometers from the center of Ang Thong town. What makes Wat Sang Kra Tai remarkable is its fascinating history and the old ordination hall, now covered by a large Bodhi tree, making it an extraordinary sight.

 

Wat Sang Kra Tai was established by Tuad Ti Chantanasewi, the mother of Phra Hatsa Kaan. The temple was once a thriving religious center where villagers came to make merit and practice Dhamma. However, as conflicts arose among the resident monks, causing a lack of unity, the villagers gradually lost faith in the temple. This led to the temple being abandoned, and there are no longer any monks residing here.

 

Although the temple is now abandoned, the ancient ordination hall remains, standing as a testament to its once-flourishing past. The hall is divided into three sections, with the central room housing the principal Buddha image, flanked by two smaller Buddha statues.

 

One of the most captivating aspects of this temple is the presence of four large Bodhi trees. These trees have grown and wrapped their roots around the walls of the ordination hall, firmly holding it in place. Remarkably, the roots have enveloped the structure in all four corners, creating a unique and natural architectural phenomenon that blends the beauty of nature with the sacredness of the temple.

 

A highlight of this temple is the view through one of the windows, which perfectly frames the principal Buddha image inside the hall. This serene sight, along with the walls embraced by the roots of the Bodhi trees, has become a symbol of the harmony between nature and religion, making it a must-see for visitors.

 

Getting to Wat Sang Kra Tai is quite straightforward. From the Asian Highway, turn into Ang Thong town and drive straight until you cross the Chao Phraya River Bridge. Continue through the first traffic light and head toward the second traffic light (the prison intersection). Turn right at this intersection, pass by the Ang Thong prison, and continue until you see a PTT gas station on your left. Make a U-turn and you will see the sign for Wat Sang Kra Tai on the left. Turn left into the Sala Daeng Subdistrict Municipality alley and drive for about 500 meters to reach the temple.

 

Wat Sang Kra Tai is a unique blend of natural beauty and religious architecture. Though it is now abandoned, the ordination hall, embraced by the roots of the Bodhi trees, remains a striking and serene landmark. For those interested in history, religion, or simply seeking an unseen, quiet corner of Thailand, this temple is a hidden gem worth visiting when in Ang Thong Province.