Wat Plak Khla is a historic temple in Khlong Hoi Khong District, Songkhla Province, with a long history dating back to around 1882. In the past, the area was low-lying land surrounded by canals, rice fields, and agricultural gardens. The name “Plak Khla” is derived from the original landscape, referring to wetland or swampy terrain commonly found in the area. The temple began as a small local community temple, serving as a spiritual center for nearby villagers, and gradually developed into a well-known and significant religious site at both the provincial and regional levels in southern Thailand.

The highlight that has made the temple widely recognized is Phra Phuttha Lap Damrong, also known as the “Big Buddha in the open air.” This large Buddha image, depicted in the Mara-Vijaya posture, is uniquely enshrined outdoors. The statue measures approximately 8 meters in width_ and 12 meters in height_, finished in a radiant golden color that reflects sunlight beautifully throughout the day, making it visible from afar and a prominent landmark of the area. The construction of this Buddha image was inspired by a vision of Phra Kru Wirakhemakhun (Luang Pho Klom), the temple’s abbot, who intended to create a spiritual center and a symbol of faith for the local community during times of social change.

In terms of belief, Phra Phuttha Lap Damrong is regarded as sacred, especially for blessings related to wealth, financial stability, career success, and health. Many visitors come to pay respect, make wishes, and fulfill vows, particularly during Buddhist holy days and long holidays. During these times, the temple attracts both Thai and international visitors, especially from Malaysia and Singapore, creating a lively yet still peaceful atmosphere typical of a religious site.

Architecturally, the temple is designed with the Big Buddha as the central focal point. The surrounding area features a spacious open courtyard that can accommodate large numbers of visitors. The main hall is designed to suit the southern climate, emphasizing openness and natural ventilation, while blending traditional southern Thai artistic elements with contemporary design. Decorative details reflect the simplicity and elegance characteristic of southern Thai craftsmanship.

Another distinctive feature that sets Wat Plak Khla apart from other temples is its role as a center for Thai traditional medicine, located beneath the base of the Big Buddha. This center is not only a place for treatments but also a learning institution offering comprehensive training in four major disciplines: Thai medicine, Thai pharmacy, Thai midwifery, and Thai massage. It serves as both a healthcare center and a hub for preserving and passing on traditional knowledge.

Health services available to visitors include traditional Thai massage for muscle relaxation, herbal treatments, body balance therapies, and consultations based on Thai medical principles. This aligns with the temple’s philosophy of being a place of refuge for both the body and the mind. Visiting the temple allows people to gain spiritual merit while also improving their physical well-being in a single location.

In terms of its role in the community, Wat Plak Khla continues to function as a center for religious and cultural activities, including annual festivals, merit-making events on important Buddhist days, and community development initiatives. It also plays a role in attracting tourists to the area, contributing to local income distribution and sustainable economic growth.

For visitors, the experience of coming to Wat Plak Khla includes enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of a traditional rural temple, admiring the grandeur of the unique open-air Buddha statue, and learning about Thai traditional medicine. The harmonious blend of spirituality, cultural heritage, and wellness makes this temple a distinctive destination and one of the notable cultural and health tourism sites in Songkhla Province today.

• By car: From Hat Yai, take the route toward Hat Yai International Airport, then continue to Khlong Hoi Khong. The journey takes approximately 30–40 minutes.