Wat Pho Bang Khla

📍 Location of Wat Pho Bang Khla 🚘 Directions to Wat Pho Bang Khla

About Wat Pho Bang Khla

Wat Pho Bang Khla in Thailand is a unique temple that stands out among the many temples in the country. It is home to a large colony of fruit bats, often referred to as flying foxes. The trees within the temple grounds are laden with these furry flying mammals, creating a spectacle that is both unusual and fascinating. Visitors are advised to be cautious as they explore, as the bats can sometimes cause unexpected precipitation from above. The temple is located alongside the serene Bang Pakong River, adding to the peaceful and attractive setting. For those who wish to get a closer look at the bats, a small tower just inside the temple gate allows visitors to climb up to tree top level and come eye-to-eye with some of the roosting bats. The temple grounds are open for exploration free of charge.

The temple is also known as the Flying Fox Sanctuary, housing a colony of Lyle's Flying Fox, a rare sight indeed. Hundreds of these giant bats can be seen hanging from the trees, their squabbles audible even before entering the temple grounds. Every so often, one of these bats will take flight, revealing their true size with a wingspan just under a meter. For the best views of these bats in flight, visitors are advised to head to the river steps and wait. These flights, while common, are quite brief, so having a camera ready is a must.

The temple is a bit further from Chachoengsao than one might expect, requiring a good portion of the afternoon and a 300 B return trip by tuk-tuk. Despite the distance, the charming and quiet Wat Po, with its unique setting by the river, is worth the journey. The main attraction here are the fruit bats, which fill the trees. While they may not do much during the day, save for hanging, preening, and squabbling, they may take flight to feed at other times of the day. A visit to Wat Pho can be combined with a visit to the Wat Saman Rattanaram Temple for a full day of exploration.

The area around the temple is a peaceful place to take a stroll, especially after a long day of sightseeing. Cats, dogs, and chickens roam the streets freely, adding to the relaxed atmosphere. In the late afternoon, visitors can watch as some bats hang high up in the trees, silhouetted against the bright sky, while others fly swiftly along the trees in the darker areas.

The temple is known for its peaceful atmosphere, with many visitors appreciating the tranquility it offers. In addition to the large population of giant bats, the temple also features a turtle pond. It is a must-visit for anyone in Chachoengsao.

The temple is not your usual tourist spot. It lacks the usual frenzy and souvenir markets found in other places. Instead, it offers a serene and old-world charm where time seems to move slower. The fruit bats are the main attraction, with hundreds of them hanging from the trees in and around the temple. A small tower at the entrance allows visitors to get a close look at the bats. The temple is about a two-hour drive from Bangkok and can be combined with other attractions in Chachoengsao for a great day out.

The temple offers a spiritual and reflective experience. It's not just about the temple of the reclining Buddha, as majestic as that is. It's about the chilled vibe, the calming music, the seductive smell of incense sticks, the irresistible Thai food, and the worshippers praying in silent contemplation. It's a potent, alluring brew that invites visitors to take a moment to sit and take in the sights and sounds. The temple offers a serene and zen-like experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.