Wat Satthatham is located in Bang Chao Khang Subdistrict, Mueang Samut Songkhram District. It is an ancient temple of the Mon community who migrated and settled in the area near the mouth of the Mae Klong River around 1883. The temple has long served as the spiritual center of the local community, playing an important role in religious practices, cultural traditions, and daily life up to the present day.The surrounding area was originally a coastal fishing community with diverse cultural influences. The Mon settlers brought with them their beliefs, traditions, and way of life, which gradually blended with the local Thai culture, forming a unique identity that is still clearly visible in the temple and community today.The most outstanding feature of the temple is its ordination hall, built entirely from golden teak wood, which is a rare architectural style in Thailand. The structure was designed to withstand the humid climate and salty sea air of the estuary region of the Mae Klong Bay, ensuring both durability and aesthetic beauty.

Both the interior and exterior of the ordination hall are exquisitely decorated with mother-of-pearl inlay work, a highly skilled traditional craft requiring great precision. The designs depict scenes from the life of the Buddha, important episodes from the Ramakien epic, as well as traditional Thai motifs such as floral patterns and celestial figures.When sunlight reflects off the mother-of-pearl surfaces, the entire building shimmers beautifully, creating a living, changing visual effect throughout the day. This makes the ordination hall a remarkable artistic landmark and a major attraction for visitors and architecture enthusiasts.Inside the hall is a replica of Phra Phuttha Chinnarat as the principal Buddha image, along with highly revered statues such as Luang Pho Ban Laem and Luang Pu Thuat. These sacred images are deeply respected by local people who come to pay respects for blessings, protection, and success in life.

Beyond its architectural beauty, the temple is also enriched by its natural surroundings. Located near the estuary of the Mae Klong River, it enjoys cool sea breezes throughout the day. The surrounding area reflects the traditional lifestyle of local fishermen, including small boats, aquaculture activities, and seafood trade.In front of the temple, there are community stalls selling local products, especially “Kalamae Raman,” a traditional Mon dessert made from coconut milk and palm sugar, slowly cooked until thick and wrapped in palm leaves, giving it a distinctive aroma and taste. It is considered one of the signature souvenirs of the area.Overall, Wat Satthatham is not only a place of worship but also a living cultural site that preserves the history, art, and traditions of the Mon community along the coastal estuary, reflecting a harmonious blend of architecture, belief, and local way of life.

• By car: From Bangkok, take Rama II Road (Highway 35) toward Samut Songkhram. Before reaching King Rama II Bridge (around km 64), turn left toward Don Hoi Lot. Continue about 1 km, then follow small local signs into the temple.

• Visit in the late afternoon when sunlight reflects off the golden teak and mother-of-pearl ordination hall, creating a beautiful shimmering effect.

• Walk slowly around the ordination hall to appreciate the detailed mother-of-pearl inlay and hidden artistic patterns on the walls.

• Dress modestly, as this is an active temple where local people regularly come to worship.

• Don’t miss trying “Kalamae Raman” sold in front of the temple, a famous local Mon dessert with a distinctive palm-leaf aroma.

• Suitable for both photography lovers and those seeking a peaceful atmosphere by the quiet and natural Mae Klong Bay area.

Admission Fee:

• Free

Opening Hours:

• Daily: 06:00 – 20:00