The Sacred Holy Well, Koh Yai, is located in Koh Yai Subdistrict, Krasaesin District, Songkhla Province, on an island within Songkhla Lake, the largest brackish-water lake in Thailand with a complex ecosystem of freshwater and seawater. The surrounding area is an old community closely connected to fishing livelihoods and Buddhist traditions. Inside Wat Koh Yai lies an ancient well that is revered as a sacred water source. Its uniqueness is that, although it is situated very close to the brackish waters of Songkhla Lake, the well contains naturally flowing freshwater throughout the year without drying up or becoming salty even during the dry season. This phenomenon has long inspired strong local belief that the well possesses sacred and supernatural power.

According to local legend, the well is associated with Luang Pu Thuat, a highly respected southern Thai monk known for the legend of walking on seawater that turned fresh. It is believed that he once passed through Koh Yai and used this water source during his spiritual journey or temporary stay, which further strengthened the site’s sacred reputation as a place of purity and blessing.

From a geological perspective, the well is a natural rock formation fed by underground water layers that collect and filter rainwater through rock strata, creating a stable freshwater source. This prevents mixing with the surrounding brackish water, making it a rare natural phenomenon that attracts both scientific interest and local spiritual belief.

In religious and ceremonial contexts, the Sacred Holy Well is recognized as one of Thailand’s important holy water sources used in royal purification ceremonies, including the coronation-related water consecration rituals. This elevates its significance to a national level. It is also a place where people come to pay respect, make offerings, collect holy water for blessings, and seek spiritual comfort.

The surrounding area has been developed with wooden pavilions, walkways, and scenic viewpoints along Songkhla Lake, creating a peaceful and natural atmosphere suitable for religious practice and cultural tourism. Visitors are able to experience both the spiritual heritage and the local way of life, making the Sacred Holy Well, Koh Yai a place where nature, faith, history, and community life are deeply intertwined and continuously preserved to this day.

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How to Get There

• By car: From Songkhla city, take Lpburiramesuan Road toward Singhanakhon District, then continue onto Highway 408 (Singhanakhon–Ranot). At the Krasaesin intersection, turn left into Krasaesin District and follow the signs to Koh Yai Subdistrict. The temple is located next to Songkhla Lake.

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Travel Tips

• Visit in the morning or evening when the weather is cooler and the lighting is beautiful, ideal for photography.

• Allow extra time to explore the temple area and viewpoints around Songkhla Lake.

• Dress modestly, as this is a religious and respected sacred site.

• Bring drinking water and sun protection, since some areas can be quite hot and sunny.

• If collecting holy water, use a clean container and do so with respect and mindfulness. 

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Admission Fee:

• No admission fee (donations are welcome)

Opening Hours:

• 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Open daily)