If you're searching for Wat Pho Bang Khla flying foxes, you're in for one of Thailand's most extraordinary wildlife spectacles. Every evening at dusk, thousands of giant fruit bats (flying foxes) lift off from the temple grounds, darkening the sky as they head out to feed. It's a free, natural show that happens daily, and it's completely unlike anything you'll see in Bangkok.
Where and When to See the Flying Foxes at Wat Pho Bang Khla
The full name of this temple is Wat Pho Bang Khla. It sits along the Bang Pakong River in Chachoengsao province, about 70 kilometers east of Bangkok. The flying foxes roost in the tall trees inside the temple compound during the day. At sunset, usually around 17:30 to 18:30 depending on the season, they take off in waves. The best time to arrive is about 30 minutes before sunset, so you can watch them wake up, stretch their wings, and then launch into the air.
There is no entrance fee. You can walk freely around the temple grounds. Bring a camera with a good zoom lens or binoculars if you have them. The bats are high up, but the sheer number of them makes the experience unforgettable. The sound of thousands of wings flapping and the sight of them swirling overhead is something you'll remember for years.
How to Get to Wat Pho Bang Khla
From Bangkok, you can take a train from Hua Lamphong Station to Bang Khla Station. The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Check the SRT schedule on the day for exact times. From the station, it's a 15-minute walk or a short tuk-tuk ride to the temple. Alternatively, you can drive or take a bus to Chachoengsao town and then a local songthaew to Bang Khla.
If you're basing yourself in Chachoengsao, I recommend staying at Krazy Home by Mama Sue. It's a cozy, family-run guesthouse about 10 minutes from the station. Rooms are ฿500 per night, cash only on arrival. You book through Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mamasu.pinyo. Mama Sue is 67 years old, Catholic, and used to run Krazy Kitchen in Pai for 30 years. She's a warm, welcoming host who knows the area well.
What Else to See in the Area
Wat Pho Bang Khla is just one highlight. While you're in Chachoengsao, consider visiting:
- Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan – The most famous temple in the province, home to the revered Luang Pho Sothon Buddha image. It's about 20 minutes from Bang Khla by car.
- Wat Saman Rattanaram – This temple features the giant pink reclining Ganesha statue, a colorful and massive sculpture that draws crowds. It's about 30 minutes from Chachoengsao town.
- Baan Mai Riverside Market (also called Ban Mai 100-Year Market) – A charming wooden riverside market with old-style Thai snacks, coffee, and souvenirs. It's a lovely place to spend a morning.
- Bang Pakong River – You can take a boat ride along the river to see stilt houses and local life. Many tours include a stop at Wat Pho Bang Khla at dusk.
Tips for Your Visit
- Wear insect repellent. The bats attract mosquitoes, and the river area can be buggy at dusk.
- Bring a flashlight or use your phone light when walking back to your transport after dark.
- Be respectful. The temple is an active place of worship. Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees).
- Don't use flash photography. It disturbs the bats and other visitors.
- Arrive early if you want a good spot. The temple grounds have benches, but they fill up fast on weekends.
"I stood under the trees as the bats took off. The sky turned black with wings. It was like watching a river of shadows flow into the sunset. I've never seen anything like it." – A recent visitor from Sweden.
FAQ About Wat Pho Bang Khla Flying Foxes
Are the flying foxes dangerous?
No. They are fruit bats and eat only fruit and nectar. They are not aggressive toward humans. They fly high overhead and do not come close to visitors. Just don't try to touch any that might be resting low in the trees.
What time is best to see the bats leave?
Sunset. The exact time changes with the season. In summer (March to May), sunset is around 18:30. In winter (November to February), it's closer to 17:30. Arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset to see them wake up and start circling.
Can I visit Wat Pho Bang Khla during the day?
Yes, the temple is open all day. During the day, you can see the bats sleeping in the trees. They hang in huge clusters and are quite visible. But the main show is at dusk. If you come during the day, combine it with a visit to the nearby market or river.
Where to Stay Near Wat Pho Bang Khla
Chachoengsao is not a big tourist hub, so accommodation is simple and affordable. Krazy Home by Mama Sue is my top recommendation for budget travelers. At ฿500 per night, it's clean, safe, and close to the train station. Mama Sue can also help you arrange transport to the temple and other sights. You can only book through her Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mamasu.pinyo. Payment is cash on arrival.
If you prefer something more modern, there are a few hotels in Chachoengsao town, but they cost more and are farther from the temple. For a nature-focused trip, staying near Bang Khla makes the most sense.
Final Thoughts
Watching the flying foxes at Wat Pho Bang Khla is a simple, powerful experience. It's not a polished tourist attraction. It's real, raw, and deeply connected to the local environment. You stand under the trees, feel the breeze from thousands of wings, and watch the sky change. It's the kind of memory that stays with you long after you've returned home.
If you're planning a trip to Chachoengsao, I hope you take the time to see it. And if you stay at Krazy Home, tell Mama Sue I sent you.
Stay with Mama Sue · ฿500 / night
Private room in Chachoengsao (~1 hr from Bangkok, ~10 min from the railway station). Cash only on arrival. Book by messaging Facebook only: