Wat Long Ruins is an important historical and archaeological site in Chaiya District, Surat Thani Province. It reflects the prosperity of the Srivijaya civilization in the past. Today, it is an abandoned temple with only the pagoda base and ancient brick structures remaining.

This archaeological site is located on a plain, bisected by a road. To the south, about 86 meters away, the Chaiya Canal flows into the Gulf of Thailand to the east. To the west, it is adjacent to Chaiya Witthaya School and is approximately 1,379 meters from the Chaiya District Office, reflecting its location as a significant community center in the past.

A prominent feature is the brick pagoda without mortar, with a cross-shaped plan, with arches in all 4 directions and only one entrance on the east side leading to the central chamber. The interior has brick walls on all 4 sides with the following dimensions:

• East: 3.50 meters wide
• West: 3.49 meters wide
• North: 3.46 meters wide
• South: 3.50 meters wide
  and an average depth of approximately 2.59 meters

Based on archaeological evidence, it is assumed that this pagoda was built during the 14th–15th centuries Buddhist Era, contemporary with Phra Borommathat Chaiya and Wat Kaeo. It was once an important religious center before deteriorating and being abandoned, eventually becoming “Wat Long” as it is known today.

Originally, this area was covered with thick soil and trees before the Fine Arts Department declared it a national ancient monument in 1936 and carried out excavation and restoration during 1981–1984 with a budget of 1,650,000 baht for detailed archaeological study.

During the excavation, many important artifacts were found, such as:

• Unbaked clay stupas dating back to around the 14th century Buddhist Era
• Unbaked clay Buddha images in the meditation posture
• Both complete and damaged unbaked clay votive tablets
• Containers for cremated bones from the Sukhothai period
• Porcelain from the Song, Ming, and Qing dynasties
• Ancient vases and fragments of grinding stones

These artifacts are now displayed at the Chaiya National Museum for education and conservation.

Although only the pagoda base remains, the brick arrangement and architectural plan clearly reflect the high skill of Srivijaya craftsmen. The surrounding atmosphere is peaceful and surrounded by nature, ideal for those who want to learn about history and experience the true essence of the past.

• By car: From Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya, drive west (towards Chaiya Market) for about 1 kilometer. Wat Long will be on the left, with a clear historical site sign.

• It is recommended to visit in the morning or evening to reduce the heat.

• The area is an open space, so prepare a hat or umbrella.

• Suitable for history and archaeology enthusiasts.

• Should be visited in conjunction with Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya and Wat Kaeo.

• It is recommended to visit the Chaiya National Museum to see real artifacts.

Admission Fee:

• Free admission

Opening Hours:

• Open daily 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM (approximately)