Wat Matchimawat, also known locally as “Wat Klang,” is an important ancient temple in Songkhla Province, located in the heart of the old town and serving as a long-standing spiritual and cultural center of the city. It was originally named “Wat Yai Sri Chan,” after its founder, a wealthy local benefactor from the early period of Songkhla. It later became known as Wat Klang because it is situated between two other major temples in the city.

The ordination hall is built in the royal craftsmanship style of the early Rattanakosin period, blending Thai, Chinese, and Western architectural influences in a harmonious way. It is distinguished by its beautifully decorated gable with gilded stucco and glass mosaic work. Inside the ordination hall are valuable murals depicting Jataka tales, the life of the Buddha, and scenes of traditional life in old Songkhla, including trade, maritime activities, and cultural diversity.

In addition, the temple houses a museum that collects ancient artifacts from the Songkhla Lake basin, such as Buddha images, ceramics, and porcelain, reflecting the region’s historical prosperity. There is also a Hermit Stretching Pavilion (Sala Rueksi Datton), featuring 40 traditional Thai medical posture illustrations with explanations of ancient healing wisdom.Overall, Wat Matchimawat is not only a place of worship but also an important center for history, art, and cultural learning in southern Thailand, continuing to serve as a spiritual heart of the Songkhla community to this day.

• By car: From Hat Yai, take Kanchanawanit Road toward Songkhla city. Continue onto Sai Buri Road. The temple is located along the main road with parking available inside the temple grounds.

• By public transport: Take a van or bus from Hat Yai–Songkhla route to Songkhla city center, then continue by shared taxi (songthaew) or motorcycle taxi to Wat Klang.

• Dress modestly, as this is a royal monastery.

• Plan your visit in advance, as the museum is open only Wednesday–Sunday, 09:00–16:00.

• Allow extra time to explore the ordination hall and its highly detailed murals.

• Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and crowds.

• After visiting the temple, you can continue to Songkhla Old Town (Nakhon Nai, Nakhon Nok, Nang Ngam Streets).

Admission Fee:

• Free of charge for both the temple and museum.

Opening Hours:

• Temple area: Daily, 06:00 – 18:00

• Museum / ordination hall: Wednesday – Sunday, 09:00 – 16:00