SONGKHLA: Crawling under the belly of the Naga at Khao Bo Temple offers a unique experience in Thailand. Wat Khao Bo, located in Ko Yo Subdistrict, Mueang District, Songkhla Province, is the only place in the country where visitors can walk beneath a large naga and ascend a hill to pay homage to sacred objects, enhancing their auspiciousness according to personal beliefs.

According to Thai News Agency, Wat Khao Bo, situated on the shores of Songkhla Lake, features a high hill offering wide-angle views. The temple has constructed a large Naga statue in a reclining position with an open mouth, allowing people to walk through its belly. Inside, a staircase with 138 steps leads to the hilltop where a large Buddha image and relics are enshrined. The construction is currently over 80 percent complete, with only decorative work remaining.

Phra Sammut Phem Sirirat, the abbot of Wat Khao Bo, explained that the Naga statue, approximately 100 meters long, was designed to include a protective roof for the staircase. Th
e project began in early 2020, initiated by the faith and efforts of local devotees who donated materials and labor for its construction. This Naga statue, unique in Thailand for allowing visitors to walk underneath, has drawn many to visit and make merit.

Mr. Sompit Songphayom, a local villager, expressed happiness at the temple’s development into a significant tourist attraction. The community is considering further enhancements, such as building a waterfall from the mountain, a project undertaken jointly by the abbot and the local community. This development is seen as a source of local pride.

The Naga statue at Khao Bo Temple has attracted numerous visitors and tourists, who crawl under its belly, hoping for good fortune. Additionally, visitors can explore a magical cave and pay homage to statues of famous monks before continuing to other destinations.