The temple was abandoned roughly 400 years ago during the late Ayutthaya period.
The structure is physically supported and bound together by the trunks and roots of ancient Bodhi trees.
There are four separate room chambers, each containing original Buddha statues.
The site has never undergone formal structural restoration, preserving its 'natural ruin' appearance.
It is considered one of the 'Unseen Thailand' attractions due to its unique integration with nature.
Wat Sang Kratai is an ancient, abandoned temple in Ang Thong characterized by its brick structure being held together solely by the intertwined roots of several massive Bodhi trees. The temple consists of four distinct rooms that remain standing without a roof, with Buddha images housed within the hollows of the ruins. The site is a popular example of a 'temple in a tree,' demonstrating the natural reclamation of architecture by the forest. It remains an active site for locals to pay respects despite its weathered, un-restored state. The structure reflects traditional Ayutthaya-era brickwork techniques. It is located in the Sala Daeng sub-district, set amidst a rural landscape.
From the front entrance of the main brick chamber, framing the Buddha statue through the natural archway created by the tree roots.
Wear mosquito repellent, as the site is surrounded by dense trees and vegetation.
Use sturdy, closed-toe footwear as the ground can be uneven and covered with loose bricks or roots.
Bring a wide-angle lens if you are a photographer, as the trees grow closely around the ruins.
Do not attempt to climb or sit on the root structures, as they are fragile and considered sacred by locals.
Maintain a respectful silence, dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees, and remove hats while near the Buddha images.
