The Sunken Temple, also known as Wat Saam Prasob, is a partially submerged temple located in Kanchanaburi, Thailand.
History and Backstory:
- Built in the 1950s by the Mon and Karen people [2].
- Originally served as the heart of a village on the Thai-Myanmar border [2].
- Submerged in 1968 due to the construction of the Vajiralongkorn Dam [2].
Visible Parts and Accessibility:
- During the rainy season, only the top half and steeple are visible above the water [1, 2].
- Boat rides are offered on the lake for a closer look at the temple [1, 3].
- During the dry season, water levels recede, allowing visitors to walk around and explore the exposed ruins [2, 3].
Things to Consider:
- The temple's accessibility depends on the water level, so plan your trip accordingly [1, 3].
- Boat rides to the temple can be negotiated and typically cost between 300-500 baht [1].
- There's another temple nearby, partially reclaimed by nature, that you might find interesting [1].
Overall, the Sunken Temple offers a unique glimpse into Thailand's history and culture. It's a perfect destination for those interested in historical sites and off-the-beaten-path adventures.