“An ancient temple built in 1915, covering a spacious area of over 22 rai, shaded by large trees. It features a well-maintained Ubosot and serves as the center for important merit-making ceremonies in the Chai Buri community.”
Wat Song Phraek is an important temple in Sai Thong Subdistrict, Chai Buri District, Surat Thani Province, and is considered a community hub in many aspects, including religious ceremonies and local tradition events. It is located at 125 Moo 2, Ban Song Phraek, in the midst of a peaceful natural area.
A Century of Faith:
Wat Song Phraek is an ancient temple with a long history, built in 1915 and granted Wisungkhamsima status in 1925. It was also certified as a temple by the National Office of Buddhism on October 1, 2012, reflecting its stability and importance in Buddhism. The temple is clean and orderly, showing the cooperation of the local villagers.
Community Architecture:
The temple consists of a well-maintained Ubosot and monastic buildings, built from the faith of local Buddhists. It is simple but elegant in the style of southern temples. The surrounding area is ideal for walking and practicing Dhamma, under the care of the Sangha. Phra Kru Kittithamchai is the abbot (holding the position since December 24, 2002), along with 7 resident monks and 2 nuns.
The temple area is spacious, with a total area of approximately 22 rai, 1 ngan, and 59 square wah, with clear title deeds (title deed number 2274, book 23, page 74, land number 12, survey page 423), allowing it to fully support religious and community activities.
Nature and Way of Life:
The temple is located amidst rubber plantations and agricultural areas, resulting in a peaceful atmosphere, fresh air, and shady trees, ideal for meditation, relaxation, and escaping the hustle and bustle. In addition, there are regular merit-making traditions on important religious days, which clearly reflects the way of life and unity of the Southern Thai community.
This temple is therefore suitable for those who want to worship, make merit, study Dhamma, or experience a peaceful atmosphere in a rural setting. It is also a source of Buddhist studies for the local people and a place that transmits religious and cultural values from generation to generation.
How to Get There
- By Car: From Surat Thani city, take Highway 401 heading west towards Kian Sa District, then enter Chai Buri District. When you reach Sai Thong Subdistrict, there will be a junction to Ban Song Phraek with clear temple signs.
Travel Tips
- It is recommended to come in the morning (07:30 - 09:30 AM) to offer alms or breakfast to the monks.
- Dress politely and maintain silence inside the temple.
- If you come during festival events such as the Tenth Lunar Month Festival, you will experience the local culture.
- There are resting spots under the big trees, suitable for relaxing the mind.
- Follow the temple's rules and respect the place.
Admission Fee:
- Free admission (donations to support the temple are welcome)
Opening Hours:
- Open daily: 06:00 AM – 6:00 PM