Wat Bang Kung

Wat Bang Kung is a historic Buddhist temple in Bang Kung Subdistrict, Bang Khonthi District, Samut Songkhram Province, Thailand. It is famous for its old ubosot (ordination hall) completely enveloped by the roots of a large banyan tree. Built in the Ayutthaya period, the temple served as a military camp for King Taksin in 1768 and houses the revered Luang Pho Dam Buddha image.

Visitors can expect a small, atmospheric temple compound centered on the banyan-covered ubosot. The chapel is encased in intertwined roots and branches, with only the doorway and windows visible. Inside is a hall with Buddha images including Luang Pho Dam and wall murals. The grounds include statues commemorating King Taksin's camp, open courtyards, and small shrines. The setting is shaded and compact, suitable for sightseeing and photography.

Wat Bang Kung was built in the Ayutthaya period. In 1768, King Taksin established a naval camp at the temple during the defense against Burmese forces after the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767. The temple was later abandoned and became overgrown, with a banyan tree enveloping the ubosot, which helped preserve the structure. It was later restored and remains an important historic site in Samut Songkhram.

The temple is an active Buddhist religious site revered by locals and visitors for the Luang Pho Dam (Black Buddha) and Luang Pho Dam's association with protection and good fortune. The banyan-covered ubosot is considered a symbol of nature and faith intertwined and is a significant cultural landmark of Samut Songkhram Province.