Wat Ek is an ancient temple in Southern Thailand’s river basin area, believed to date back to the Ayutthaya period. It reflects the traditional settlement pattern of “riverside community temples,” which once served as spiritual centers, community hubs, and resting points for people traveling by water and land.

The temple’s core attraction is “Luang Pho Doem,” the principal Buddha image enshrined in the ordination hall. According to local belief, it was not formally installed in the usual way but instead floated in on a bamboo raft from another temple. This legend reflects a blend of Buddhist belief and Southern Thai folk spirituality, where sacred Buddha images are believed to choose their own place of residence.

In terms of Buddhist art, Luang Pho Doem is made from coral stone, a rare and fragile material in Thai sculpture that requires specialized craftsmanship. It has later been covered with plaster for preservation, helping retain its ancient form beneath restoration layers.

Another important feature is the carved wooden Buddha footprint, a rare relic representing the Theravada Buddhist tradition of symbolically depicting the Buddha’s presence. Due to its wooden material, such artifacts are highly rare today and carry significant historical and spiritual value, serving as a focal point of local faith.

Socially, the temple functions beyond a religious site, acting as a community center for ceremonies, merit-making activities, and meditation practices. It is well maintained, peaceful, and widely recognized as a model temple in local development efforts.

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How to Get There

By car: From Songkhla city, take Highway 408 (Songkhla–Ranot) toward Krasae Sin District. Then turn onto the Krasae Sin–Choeng Sae road and continue for about 7–8 kilometers. You will see the temple entrance sign on the right-hand side.

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Travel Tips

• It is popular for prayers related to career, finances, and success.

• If wishes are granted, locals often fulfill vows by ordaining as Buddhist monks.

• Visitors should dress modestly, as it is a temple and meditation center.

• On Buddhist holy days and important religious occasions, many people come to practice meditation and participate in activities.

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Admission Fee:

• No admission fee (donations welcome)

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.