Wat Sang Kratai

Wat Sang Kratai is an abandoned Buddhist temple in Sala Daeng Subdistrict, Mueang Ang Thong District, Ang Thong Province, central Thailand. Estimated to be over 400 years old from the late Ayutthaya period, it is notable for its roofless chapel enveloped by the roots and trunks of four large Bodhi trees. The atmospheric ruin preserves Buddha images inside and is a distinctive example of nature reclaiming historic architecture.

Visitors can expect a small, roofless historic chapel whose walls and entrance are covered and supported by the dense roots, trunks and branches of four mature Bodhi trees. Inside the open-air hall are three Buddha images, including a principal seated image. The site is set in a quiet rural temple compound with open grounds, mature trees and minimal modern structures, offering a tranquil, photogenic setting focused on the tree-encased ruin.

Believed to have been built over 400 years ago in the late Ayutthaya period, Wat Sang Kratai was abandoned after the village was deserted, likely during the Burmese-Siamese wars. Left without maintenance, the chapel became enveloped by four Bodhi trees whose roots now support the remaining walls. The site preserves Ayutthaya-era architecture and Buddha images and is maintained as a historic ruin.

A revered Buddhist site where Bodhi trees, associated with the Buddha's enlightenment, are considered sacred. The tree-encased chapel is respected by local communities and visitors as a symbol of the endurance of Buddhism and the harmony between nature and religious heritage. Visitors observe traditional temple customs when viewing the Buddha images.