Sunken Temple

The Sunken Temple, also known as Wat Phra That, is a unique and fascinating historical site located in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. The temple has become an iconic symbol of the region due to its submerged ruins, which can only be fully viewed when the water level of the nearby reservoir is low. The Sunken Temple has intrigued both locals and tourists for its mysterious appearance and its connection to the construction of the Vajiralongkorn Dam, which resulted in the flooding of the area. Despite being partially submerged, the temple stands as a reminder of Kanchanaburi's rich history and offers visitors a chance to experience a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

How to Reach the Sunken Temple, Kanchanaburi

Getting to the Sunken Temple in Kanchanaburi is relatively straightforward, though it may require some planning depending on your mode of transportation. Here are the main options:

• By Car: The Sunken Temple is located about 40 kilometers from Kanchanaburi town center, near the Vajiralongkorn Dam. If you’re driving, you’ll need to take Route 323, which will lead you towards the dam area. The journey takes about 1-1.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Make sure to use a map or GPS to guide you as the temple is a bit off the main roads.
• By Taxi: If you prefer not to drive, you can hire a taxi from Kanchanaburi to take you directly to the Sunken Temple. This option is convenient but can be more expensive, costing anywhere between 500 to 800 THB (15-25 USD) for a one-way trip.
• By Tour Group: Many travel agencies in Kanchanaburi offer guided tours that include the Sunken Temple as part of a day trip to the surrounding areas, including the Vajiralongkorn Dam and other natural attractions. This is a good option for visitors who want a guided experience and transportation included.
• By Motorbike: For the more adventurous traveler, renting a motorbike in Kanchanaburi is another popular way to reach the temple. It provides flexibility and allows you to explore the surrounding area at your own pace.

Weather in Kanchanaburi

The weather in Kanchanaburi is tropical, with three distinct seasons that influence the best time to visit the Sunken Temple:

• Cool Season (November to February): The cool season is the most favorable time to visit Kanchanaburi and the Sunken Temple. Temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F), with lower humidity and less rainfall. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities, as the weather is more comfortable for walking and exploring.
• Hot Season (March to May): The hot season can bring high temperatures, sometimes exceeding 35°C (95°F). If you visit during this period, it’s best to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the temperatures are more manageable. Wearing sunscreen, a hat, and light clothing is recommended.
• Rainy Season (June to October): The rainy season brings frequent downpours and high humidity, which could make outdoor activities less pleasant. The Sunken Temple, however, is still accessible during this period, but the water levels may rise, affecting visibility of the submerged ruins. If you don’t mind the rain, this is a quieter time to visit.

Timing of the Sunken Temple

The Sunken Temple can be visited year-round, but the best time to explore the temple is during the dry season when the water levels in the reservoir are lower, allowing the temple’s ruins to emerge. The ideal months for visiting are between November and February. During this time, the weather is cooler, and the chances of seeing the full remains of the temple are higher.

The temple is accessible throughout the day, and since it is an outdoor site, it’s recommended to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and to enjoy the site with fewer visitors. The timing is especially important if you’re hoping to photograph the temple in the best light.

Why Famous for Sunken Temple, Kanchanaburi?

The Sunken Temple in Kanchanaburi is famous for its unique and dramatic appearance. When the Vajiralongkorn Dam was constructed in the 1980s, the area around the temple was submerged to create the dam’s reservoir. Over time, the temple was partially flooded, and the waters would occasionally recede, revealing its ruined structures. The temple’s occasional emergence from the water, coupled with its historical significance, has made it an intriguing landmark and a must-visit destination for history and nature lovers alike.

One of the primary reasons the temple is famous is its symbolism of the cultural and environmental changes brought about by the construction of the Vajiralongkorn Dam. It stands as a reminder of how human progress can alter natural landscapes, leaving behind traces of the past submerged beneath the waters. The temple's story has drawn people from all over the world who want to witness this historical phenomenon.

Entry and Visit Details About the Sunken Temple

Visiting the Sunken Temple is free of charge, and there are no strict entry requirements. The temple site is located in an open area near the Vajiralongkorn Dam, so visitors are free to explore on their own. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Access to the Temple: The Sunken Temple is best visited during the dry season, when the water level is low enough to expose the temple ruins. Visitors can walk around the temple's submerged remains and observe the impressive structure from different angles. The temple is located in a remote area, so there are no formal paths leading directly to the ruins. It’s important to wear appropriate footwear and be cautious when navigating the site, as some parts may be slippery or uneven.
• Guided Tours: Although the Sunken Temple is not a traditional tourist attraction with facilities, some tour operators in Kanchanaburi offer guided visits to the temple. These tours typically include transportation, a guide to explain the history of the temple, and a visit to other nearby attractions, such as the Vajiralongkorn Dam.
• Photography: The Sunken Temple is a popular spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset, when the lighting enhances the dramatic effect of the submerged ruins. Visitors are encouraged to bring cameras and take photos, but they should also be respectful of the site’s historical significance and refrain from disturbing the temple remains.

History and Architecture of the Sunken Temple

Wat Phra That, also known as the Sunken Temple, was originally built during the Ayutthaya period, and it served as a place of worship for the local people. However, in the 1980s, when the Vajiralongkorn Dam was constructed to provide hydroelectric power to the region, the surrounding area was flooded. As a result, the temple was submerged underwater, and only parts of its structure were visible above the surface.

The architecture of the Sunken Temple is typical of traditional Thai religious buildings, featuring a central chedi (stupa) surrounded by smaller structures and Buddhist statues. The temple was originally built using local materials, including wood and stone, and its design reflects the grandeur and reverence associated with religious architecture in Thailand. Though the temple is now partially submerged, the remains that are visible provide an excellent example of Thai religious architecture from centuries past.

The temple's history is closely tied to the environmental and social changes brought about by the construction of the dam. The flooding of the area left a lasting impact on the local communities, and the temple’s ruins now stand as a poignant reminder of this transformation.

Things to Do at the Sunken Temple

While visiting the Sunken Temple, there are several things you can do to fully experience this unique site:

• Explore the Ruins: Take a walk around the submerged remains of the temple, which are visible when the water level is low. Examine the architecture and imagine what the temple would have looked like before it was partially flooded.
• Photography: The Sunken Temple offers incredible photographic opportunities, especially during the early morning or late afternoon light. Capture the beauty of the ruins against the backdrop of the reservoir and the surrounding mountains.
• Visit the Vajiralongkorn Dam: After exploring the Sunken Temple, you can visit the nearby Vajiralongkorn Dam, which is one of the largest dams in Thailand. The dam offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the reservoir.
• Relax and Enjoy Nature: The area around the Sunken Temple is peaceful and surrounded by natural beauty. You can spend time by the water, enjoy the tranquility of the area, and take in the scenic views.

Facts and Tips About the Sunken Temple

• The Sunken Temple is best visited during the dry season (November to February) when the water level in the reservoir is low, revealing the temple ruins.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking around the ruins. The terrain may be uneven, and some areas could be muddy.
• Since the Sunken Temple is located in a remote area, it’s recommended to bring some snacks, water, and sun protection if you plan to spend a long time exploring the site.
• Be mindful of the environment and the historical significance of the site. Avoid touching or disturbing the temple remains.
• There are no official facilities at the Sunken Temple, so visitors should plan accordingly and be prepared for a more rustic experience.