Khao Kao Seng (Wat Khao Kao Saen)

Photo Credit: ททท.สำนักงานสงขลา

Khao Kao Seng (Wat Khao Kao Saen)

The Elephant Sculpture in Songkhla

Khao Khao Seang (Wat Khao Khao Saen) is a small stone hill located by the sea, on the southern side of Chao La Thas Beach. The surrounding area is a fishing community. There is a local legend associated with this hill, which is known in the local dialect as "Hua Nai Reng." It recounts that once, the city of Nakhon Si Thammarat planned to enshrine the relics of the Buddha in a stupa. Twelve southern cities brought gold and valuables to contribute to this purpose. The city governed by Nai Reng was also a vassal of Nakhon Si Thammarat. Nai Reng, a man of profound faith in Buddhism, transported a vast amount of gold, totaling nine hundred thousand, onto a ship along with his retinue and set sail for Nakhon Si Thammarat. During the journey, a storm damaged their ship, forcing them to dock at a certain shore for repairs. When Nai Reng learned that the relics had already been enshrined in Nakhon Si Thammarat, he felt great sorrow. He instructed his retinue to deposit the precious items at the top of a hill and commanded them to sever his own head and place it there as well. Nai Reng then held his breath and died. Reluctantly, the crew complied with their lord’s command. This hill later became known as "Khao Khao Saen," which eventually morphed into "Khao Seang." The stone that rests on top of the hill is referred to as "Hua Nai Reng." The locals believe that the spirit of Nai Reng still guards the treasures to this day. On Khao Seang, there is also the Wat Khao Khao Saen. Inside the temple stands the "Vihara of the Buddha Mother," which houses a statue of the Buddha in the posture of birth. In the temple courtyard, there is a large statue known as "Phra Phuttha Metta," representing the Buddha in the Mara Victory posture. From the temple, stone steps lead up to a nearby hill. At the top of this hill stands the "Stupa of Khao Seang," a brick and mortar bell-shaped structure that showcases early Rattanakosin architectural style. To reach this site from Songkhla city, take Chao La Thas Road heading south until you reach a bend intersecting with Khao Saen Road. There is a turn to the left; continue straight and cross the concrete bridge until you arrive at the Songkhla National Coastal Aquaculture Institute. The entrance to Khao Seang is on your left-hand side, just 5 kilometers from the city center.

Province: Songkhla

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ลลิตา วันลาไม่เคยพอ

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