Wat Khongkha Liap is an ancient temple located in the Khlong U-Taphao river basin in Songkhla Province, an area that has long held historical importance for Southern Thai communities. In the past, this region served as a major water transportation route used for travel and goods transportation before modern road networks were developed, making the temple a central part of riverside community life.

Historically, the Khlong U-Taphao area functioned as a vital waterway for the community, serving as a pier, a resting point for trading boats, and a connection route between Hat Yai and surrounding districts. As a result, settlements grew densely along the canal, and Wat Khongkha Liap became a spiritual center for local people from its early days.

The temple has long played an important role in both religious and community life. It has been continuously used for merit-making activities, ceremonies, and local traditions. It also served as a resting point for monks traveling along waterways in the past, strengthening its connection to Buddhist practice and the spread of Buddhism in the region.

One of the key highlights of Wat Khongkha Liap is its association with the legend of Luang Pu Thuat, a highly revered monk in Southern Thailand known as “Luang Pu Thuat who walked on seawater that turned fresh.” According to local belief, he once passed through this area and briefly rested here, which led to the establishment of a shrine for people to pay respect and seek blessings.

Today, Wat Khongkha Liap continues to play an important role as a community temple. It remains a place for merit-making, meditation, and religious ceremonies, as well as a spiritual tourism destination visited by both locals and visitors from other provinces seeking blessings and peace of mind.

The temple is located directly beside Khlong U-Taphao, giving it a peaceful and shady atmosphere throughout the day. A large Buddha statue stands prominently by the canal, serving as the temple’s main landmark. Visitors often come to relax, meditate, and enjoy the natural scenery where water, greenery, and religious structures blend harmoniously.

The surrounding environment still reflects the traditional riverside lifestyle, allowing visitors to experience a simple and unhurried way of life. It is especially suitable for those looking to escape the busy city and find a peaceful place to rest their mind.

With its historical, cultural, religious, and community value, Wat Khongkha Liap is not only a tourist attraction but also a reflection of the riverside heritage of Songkhla. It continues to be a spiritual center that remains meaningful to people to this day.

• By car: From Hat Yai city, take Airport Road (Route 4135) heading toward Khlong Hoi Khong District. The journey takes about 15–20 minutes. Then follow the signs to the temple and turn into Ban Tha Sae village road until reaching the canal-side area.

• Visit in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cool and not too hot.

• The lighting is beautiful and ideal for photographing the riverside Buddha statue.

• Dress modestly and appropriately for entering a temple.

• It is suitable for meditation or relaxing by the riverside.

• Walk slowly around the temple to fully enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.