Wherever you travel in Thailand, you will see large signs over the road with suggested places to visit. There was one in Rayong that we drove past most days and on it were three temples, Wat Lahan Yai and Wat Lahan Rai, which we had been to before, and Wat Nong Krap. Because I have the sense of humour of a 13 year old, that one always made me chuckle. Since we were going to be leaving Rayong, I suggested we actually go visit it and see what the fuss was all about.

Wat Nong Krap is located north of Muang Rayong and Ban Khai and is well off the beaten track, which is actually a good thing as the Wat is quiet and not overflowing with tourists.

The Walls, entrance and buildings are decorated in white and gold and they look stunning. The interior of the main Viharn is dark wood and a great contrast to the exterior walls. Surrounding the viharn are a number of Yaksha guardians standing watch around the building and you can place coins in boxes at their feet for a variety of blessings such as money, love, happiness, peace and luck.

There are a number of smaller buildings – a smaller viharn being repaired, bohts and pagodas and a cross-eyed buddha – spread out over quite a large site, along with the usual collection of Garuda, Naga, Yaksha and Pixiu that you often see around Buddhist wats.

It’s not the grandest or busiest or most popular wat, but I have to say, so far, it’s my favourite. The white and gold looks special without being overly grandiose and the atmosphere was so peaceful – perfect for quiet contemplation. The people volunteering there were also really nice.

It’s defintely out of the way, but if you ever find yourself in Rayong province and wondering what temple to visit, You won’t regret placing this top of your list.