Wat Don Kai Dee

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08:30–20:30

 

Wat Don Kai Dee is an ancient temple located along the Tha Chin River in Talat Krathum Baen Subdistrict, Krathum Baen District, Samut Sakhon Province. It is one of the most culturally significant temples in the area, reflecting local history, traditional Thai craftsmanship, and deep-rooted community faith. The temple stands out for its rare and distinctive ubosot designed in the shape of a Chinese junk boat, a form that is rarely seen today.

 

The ubosot of Wat Don Kai Dee is constructed in the form of a junk boat, representing architectural styles from the middle Ayutthaya period. The structure is built on elevated land near the Tha Chin River, an area historically safe from flooding, making it suitable for temple construction. The temple was originally known as “Wat Don” before later becoming Wat Don Kai Dee.

 

The building structure follows traditional techniques, using large timber logs as the foundation supporting brick and mortar walls. Inside, octagonal lotus-style pillars are arranged in rows, while certain sections rely on horizontal wooden beams instead of columns to support the roof. This reflects the ingenuity and craftsmanship of Thai artisans in the past.

 

The roof has a slightly curved form known as “junk-belly style,” decorated with traditional Thai elements such as chofah, bai raka, and hang hong. It is covered with traditional clay tiles in a fish-scale pattern, preserving the authenticity of classic Thai architecture.

 

Inside the ubosot is a principal Buddha image in meditation posture, locally known as Luang Pho To, which has long been a spiritual center for the local community. Additional revered Buddha images are also enshrined within the temple, attracting visitors who come to pay respect and seek blessings.

 

The temple has long been connected to the riverside community along the Tha Chin River, which historically served as a major trade and transportation route. The junk-shaped ubosot symbolically reflects the prosperity of water-based commerce in earlier times.

 

Getting There From Bangkok, take Phetkasem Road toward Krathum Baen District. Continue into Talat Krathum Baen Subdistrict and follow local roads toward the Tha Chin River. The temple is located near the main community area and is easily accessible by both private vehicles and local transport.

 

 

A: The unique junk-shaped ubosot, which is rare in Thai temple architecture.

 

A: It dates back to the middle Ayutthaya period.

 

A: Yes, it is open daily during operating hours.

 

A: Yes, Luang Pho To is the principal Buddha image of the temple.

 

A: Yes, it is easily accessible by car from Bangkok.