Krok Krak Temple is an ancient temple with a history of more than 200 years, located along the Tha Chin River in Mueang District, Samut Sakhon Province. The temple holds great significance in terms of history, religion, and the traditional way of life of people in the Tha Chin River basin. It has long been revered by fishermen and river travelers who depend on this important waterway. The most distinctive feature that has made Wat Krok Krak famous nationwide is “Luang Pho Pu,” a laterite Buddha image in the Mara-Vijaya posture wearing black sunglasses—an extraordinary sight that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

The origin of the black sunglasses is rooted in a legend of faith and vow fulfillment. In the past, the local community suffered from an outbreak of conjunctivitis. Villagers prayed to Luang Pho Pu, vowing that if they recovered, they would offer gold leaf to cover the Buddha’s eyes. After many people were cured, excessive gold leaf was applied, affecting the appearance of the Buddha image. To preserve its beauty, the abbot at that time decided to place black sunglasses over the eyes instead. This solution eventually became the temple’s unique identity and later evolved into the tradition of offering black sunglasses as vow offerings, with thousands of pairs donated over time.

The atmosphere within Krok Krak Temple is peaceful, green, and well maintained. Its riverside location along the Tha Chin River provides cool breezes throughout the day, along with scenic views of flowing water and passing boats. The new ordination hall is grand and elegant, enshrining a principal Buddha image that radiates compassion. The temple also preserves an old viharn and riverside areas where visitors can relax and observe the traditional riverside lifestyle of the local community.

For photography enthusiasts, Krok Krak Temple offers many fascinating angles, especially the iconic image of Luang Pho Pu wearing sunglasses, which is the temple’s most recognizable highlight. The site also features refined Thai architectural details and riverside scenery that changes beautifully with the light at different times of day. For couples and families, visiting the temple to make merit, stroll along the river embankment, and feed fish provides both relaxation and spiritual blessings.

Krok Krak Temple is a place where faith, history, and remarkable stories come together harmoniously. Visitors will experience the extraordinary charm of Luang Pho Pu and the warm hospitality of the Samut Sakhon community, making a visit to this temple a truly meaningful and unforgettable journey.

Private Car:

• From Bangkok, take Rama 2 Road towards Samut Sakhon. Upon reaching Mahachai, turn into Thammakhunakon Road and follow signs to Krok Krak subdistrict.

Public Transport:

• Take a Bangkok-Mahachai bus to the Mahachai terminal, then take a local songthaew directly to the temple.

By Train:

• Disembark at Mahachai Station, then use the ferry to cross to the Tha Chalom side or take local transport from Mahachai directly to the temple.

Best Season:

•  Visitable year-round. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to enjoy the river breeze and softer sunlight for photography.

Attire:

• As it is a sacred religious site, please dress politely (avoid sleeveless tops and short skirts/pants).

Offerings:

• It is recommended to bring black sunglasses to offer to Luang Pho Pu if you intend to make a vow or fulfill one.

Food & Souvenirs:

• The Mahachai area near the temple is famous for fresh and processed seafood. Don't miss the local Lod Chong dessert, a famous specialty of the province.

Admission Fee

• Local visitors: Adult Free, Child Free

• Foreign visitors: Adult Free, Child Free

Opening Hours

• Open Daily: 06:00 – 18:00

• Special note: The main hall may be briefly closed during morning or evening monk chanting sessions.