Is it possible that the name Wat Krachang rings a bell? Perhaps not. Let me share its story with you. Wat Krachang is a temple that whispers tales from the early Ayutthaya period.
Wat Krachang is named after the Boesenbergia rotunda. It is also known as Chinese keys or fingerroot. This herb is used for both medicine and cooking. Many temples are named after important plants and trees. Wat Krachang is no exception.
The temple’s exact founding date remains a mystery. Historians believe it dates back to the early Ayutthaya period between 1351 and 1488 CE. The original builders constructed the first structures on a raised mound. This was to protect them from the frequent floods. Sadly only a few artifacts from this time have been discovered.
In the middle of the Ayutthaya period between 1488 and 1629 CE Wat Krachang was restored. It was also expanded at this time. A tall stupa was added similar in style to Wat Sam Pluem. Other temples with similar stupas include Wat Suwannawat and Wat Nang Kham. Wat Jong Krom and Wat Langkha Khao also share this style. Even Wat Phra Ram was constructed similarly.
These stupas were all made using brick and mortar. They feature an octagonal base. A bell-shaped dome sits atop the base. An octagonal harmika crowns the dome. In front of Wat Krachang’s main chedi a vihara was built. It faces east. The principal chedi was surrounded by four smaller chedis. They form a quincunx pattern. The entire complex aligns on an east-west axis.
Wat Krachang stands in the middle of rice fields. Flooding is common here. The temple remained secluded until recently. In Ayutthaya canals were important for transport. There must have been one near Wat Krachang. Today this waterway is no longer in use.
You can reach Wat Krachang via Road No 3409. It is also visible from Road No 347.
Wat Krachang offers a glimpse into Ayutthaya’s past. Its architecture reflects different periods of restoration and expansion. The name itself connects the temple to local flora. Imagine this temple in its prime. Visualize the canals bustling with activity. Picture monks walking through the rice fields. Wat Krachang connects us to a rich and fascinating history.