Wat Pho Bang Khla is an ancient temple located on the banks of the Bang Pakong River in Bang Khla District, Chachoengsao Province. It is believed to have been built during the late Ayutthaya period and early Thonburi period. The temple still retains many preserved aspects of ancient Thai architecture, most notably the four-sided vihara (main chapel), a significant feature of the temple. The building has a traditional Thai tiled roof and is surrounded by a low glass wall, typical of ancient temples. Inside, it houses a principal Buddha image and several other ancient Buddha statues reflecting late Ayutthaya period art. The atmosphere within the temple is serene and peaceful, retaining the charm of a traditional riverside community in Chachoengsao Province.

What makes Wat Pho Bang Khla known throughout the country is that it is home to the "Lile's Flying Fox," a large fruit-eating bat species found only in Thailand. Tens of thousands of these bats can be seen resting on large trees within the temple grounds during the day, particularly around the Bodhi trees, rain trees, and other large trees along the Bang Pakong River. The sight of these massive flocks of bats covering the trees is a rare and unique spectacle in Thailand. This has led to the temple being recognized as an important natural and cultural tourist attraction in Chachoengsao Province. Many tourists prefer to visit to see the bats in the late morning to afternoon, as this is when the bats rest in the trees and are clearly visible from within the temple.

The fruit bats living at Wat Pho Bang Khla exhibit interesting behavior. During the day, they gather to rest in large trees and rarely fly away. As evening approaches and sunset, they begin to fly out of the temple in large flocks to forage for fruit and nectar in agricultural areas and natural forests, before returning to rest within the temple again in the early morning. This behavior has been an integral part of the Bang Khla community's ecosystem for a long time. Locals believe that these bats have been with the temple for generations, contributing to the unique identity of Bang Khla district and becoming one of the area's important symbols.

In addition to its natural attractions, Wat Pho Bang Khla is also a place of historical and religious value. The temple houses many ancient Buddha statues and structures reflecting traditional Thai architecture. Tourists visiting here often enjoy both paying respects to the Buddha, making merit, and admiring the beauty of the surrounding area. From the temple grounds, visitors can also see the Bang Pakong River flowing through Bang Khla district. The Bang Pakong River, a vital waterway that has sustained communities in Chachoengsao Province for centuries, makes a visit to Wat Pho Bang Khla more than just a nature-based tourism experience. It's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the lifestyle, culture, and history of the eastern riverside community.

Currently, Wat Pho Bang Khla is considered one of Chachoengsao's most famous tourist destinations and is often included in itineraries that combine Bang Khla Floating Market, Wat Saman Rattanaram, and other attractions along the Bang Pakong River. It's easily accessible from Bangkok in about 1-2 hours, making it ideal for day trips. Within the temple grounds, there are areas for observing bats, taking photos, and relaxing in the shade of large trees. However, the temple requests that visitors avoid making loud noises, using flash photography, or directly disturbing the bats to help conserve wildlife and preserve the natural environment for the future.

• From Chachoengsao town, take Mahachakkraphat Road (Highway 304) toward Kabin Buri. At the Bang Khla junction, turn left onto Highway 3121. Drive straight until you reach the Bang Khla District Office, then turn left onto Rabiap Kit Road for about 500 meters to reach the temple entrance.

• Visit in the morning or afternoon for the clearest view of the bats.

• Avoid using flash photography directly toward the bats.

• Dress respectfully as the temple is a sacred religious site.

• Bring a zoom camera or telephoto lens for better bat photography.

Admission Fees:

• Free admission.

Opening Hours:

• 08:00 – 17:00 (Bats can be seen all day)