Wat Ban Na Muang

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About Wat Ban Na Muang

The Boat Temple is a unique and fascinating destination that offers a blend of cultural richness and architectural grandeur. The journey to the temple begins with a drive under the belly of a massive elephant statue, a guardian that welcomes visitors to this impressive site. The temple is situated a short distance from the city, on the outskirts of town, making it a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life.

The temple complex is home to a large boat adorned with intricate craftsmanship. The boat is a sight to behold, with its detailed work and grandeur. Further back, there is a concrete boat where visitors can engage in the delightful activity of feeding fish. Vendors around the area provide bread for this purpose. The lake surrounding the boat is home to some large fish, adding to the unique charm of the place.

However, visitors should be aware of the large number of pigeons that inhabit the temple. These birds, often referred to as 'flying rats', can be a bit of a nuisance due to their droppings. It is advisable not to remove your shoes when entering the temple due to this. Despite this minor inconvenience, the temple remains a great spot for photography enthusiasts.

The Boat Temple is not just a single structure but a complex of various structures, each showcasing remarkable workmanship. It is worth taking the time to study and appreciate the details of these structures. The temple complex also includes a large working temple for making merit, a very ornate bell tower, and a large seated Buddha temple. There is also a large foundation being poured for a new building, adding to the anticipation of what's to come.

One of the highlights of the Boat Temple is the pair of temples built on barges styled like the Royal Barges. These temples are unique and offer a different perspective on Thai temple architecture. The first barge temple is very ornate and features statues of rowers in place. The second barge temple, larger than the first, is under construction on the lake and promises to be an exciting addition to the complex.

Children, in particular, will enjoy the Boat Temple as they can feed the huge catfish in the lake. This activity, coupled with the sight of the differently designed Thai temples, makes the Boat Temple a must-visit for families.

In conclusion, the Boat Temple is a unique and impressive destination that offers a different experience from the usual temple visits. Its unique features, such as the boat temples and the massive elephant statue at the entrance, make it a standout among the many temples in Thailand. Whether you are a resident or a visitor in Ubon Ratchathani, the Boat Temple is a special place that should not be missed.