World’s biggest Ganesha & Temple of Upside down BAT

If you’re after a day trip that mixes spirituality, striking sights, and a dash of local charm, this tour promises just that. Covering some of the most unusual temples in the Bangkok region — including the world’s largest Ganesha statue and a temple famous for its upside-down bats — it’s a full-day adventure that highlights the city’s eclectic spirit. But, as with many tours, it has its strengths and drawbacks that are worth understanding before booking.

What really sets this experience apart is the chance to see a variety of temples and natural sights in one day, all with a comfortable round-trip transfer. The authentic local food, laid-back atmosphere, and the chance to spot massive fruit bats make it stand out. However, the tour’s overall appeal hinges on the guide’s knowledge and the quality of the experience at each stop, which might not always hit the mark.

This tour is perfect for travelers craving a balanced mix of cultural sights, nature, and local flavor — especially if you’re interested in seeing some of Thailand’s more unusual religious sites and relaxing in scenic riverside spots. Keep in mind, though, that some reviewers have expressed disappointment about guide knowledge and the depth of historical explanations.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary featuring temples, markets, and natural sights in one day.
• Highlights include the giant reclining Ganesha and the upside-down BAT temple.
• Comfortable transport with air-conditioning ensures a relaxing day.
• Authentic local food and a laid-back atmosphere at Ban Mai Market.
• Mixed reviews about guide knowledge, which can impact the experience.
• A value-conscious tour at roughly $192 per person, offering several entry tickets and lunch.

A Practical Overview of the Tour

This full-day tour from Bangkok is designed for those wanting to tick off some of the region’s most extraordinary temples and scenic spots. With a duration of approximately 10 hours, it offers a whirlwind glimpse into religious, natural, and local life along the Bang Pakong River.

It starts at 9:30 am with pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point, with the convenience of round-trip transfers included. The group size is private, so it’s tailored for your personal comfort and flexibility. The tour is inclusive — all temple entry fees, a tasty lunch, and an English-speaking guide are part of the package.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Chachoengsao’s Riverside Temple

The journey begins with a visit to a beautiful riverside temple in Chachoengsao, built to enshrine the Luang Phor Sothon Buddha image. According to legend, this sacred image floated down the nearby Bang Pakong River, making it a significant spiritual site. The temple’s peaceful setting and scenic views make it a calming start to the day. While the admission here is free, it sets the tone for a day of cultural discovery.

Stop 2: Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan

Next, we visit this riverside temple, noted for its elegant, simple design with a white marble façade and gold accents. The upward-stretching spire offers a visual treat and the chance to enjoy the riverside landscape. It’s a place for reflection and admiration of Thai religious architecture. The guided commentary here might be limited, but the serene atmosphere compensates.

Stop 3: Lord Ganesha at Wat Saman Rattanaram

Perhaps the most colorful stop, this Ganesha temple is famous for its pink, giant statue of Lord Ganesha — a Hindu deity widely revered in Thailand. The temple’s vibrant, theme-park-like design makes it a fun, photo-worthy spot. The views of the Bang Pakong River add to the appeal. One reviewer described this as the “most memorable” part of the trip, although they also noted a lack of in-depth historical commentary from the guide, which might be disappointing for those seeking detailed background.

Stop 4: Wat Pho Bang Khla – the BAT Temple

This stop is a highlight for fans of natural oddities. The temple of bats is home to hundreds of large fruit bats hanging from the trees. It’s an impressive sight — a true natural spectacle. Expect to spend about an hour here, observing the bats and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The experience is both fascinating and somewhat quirky, especially for wildlife lovers or those curious about local biodiversity.

Stop 5: Bang Pakong River Viewpoint

A brief visit to this major river offers a scenic pause and a chance to understand its significance in Thailand’s geography. The river’s flow through the Central Basin and into the Gulf of Thailand makes it an important natural feature, and the views here are a simple but lovely addition to the day.

Stop 6: Ban Mai Market

The last stop is a hidden gem — a cozy riverside market perfect for unwinding and sampling authentic Thai snacks and dishes. The relaxed atmosphere provides a nice contrast to the more structured temple visits, and this is often appreciated by travelers looking to experience local life. Here, travelers can enjoy the gentle breezes, friendly staff, and a peaceful view of the calm river.

What’s Good and What’s Not

The Positives

The tour’s main strength lies in its varied itinerary. You get a taste of religious architecture, natural wildlife, and genuine local markets, making it a well-rounded experience. The inclusion of all entrance fees and a tasty lunch adds value, especially given the $192.37 price tag per person. The round-trip transfer and private group format ensure comfort and flexibility.

The Drawbacks

On the other hand, the guide’s knowledge appears to be a bit inconsistent. One reviewer specifically mentioned that their guide was not very well-versed in the history, which can diminish the educational aspect of the trip. This was a disappointment, especially at stops like the Ganesha temple or Wat Sothon, where some background could enrich your experience.

Plus, some visitors found the overall experience somewhat superficial, with limited insights into the significance of the sites beyond surface-level descriptions. The short time spent at each stop means you might not get a deep understanding but rather a quick glimpse.

The Value Equation

Considering the price, this tour offers good value for those wanting a broad snapshot of Bangkok’s surroundings. The combination of scenic views, cultural landmarks, wildlife, and authentic food makes it worthwhile. However, if you’re looking for an in-depth exploration or expert-guided history, you may find this tour a bit shallow.

Our Takeaway: Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is best suited for curious travelers eager to see a variety of sights in one day — especially those who appreciate quirky temples, wildlife spotting, and relaxed markets. It’s ideal if you’re after a comfortable, all-in-one experience without the hassle of planning multiple visits.

However, if you’re someone who values detailed historical information or expects guides to be experts, you might want to set your expectations accordingly. The lack of extensive commentary could be a downside for those wanting to learn deeply about each site.

For wildlife lovers, the bat temple will be a highlight. Foodies will enjoy the authentic local lunch and market atmosphere. And for those who enjoy scenic river views, the stops along the Bang Pakong River add a calming, picturesque touch.

Final Words: Is It Worth Your Time?

This tour offers a fun, varied day out that captures some of Bangkok’s more unusual sights and local flavors. It’s a good way to see diverse temples, natural wildlife, and riverside markets without the stress of organizing separate visits. If you’re okay with a less detailed guide and a quick-paced itinerary, you’ll find this experience satisfying and memorable.

That said, it’s not perfect. Expect a light touch on history and context, and don’t anticipate an in-depth guided tour. But if you’re after authentic moments, interesting visuals, and a relaxed pace, this could be just what you need for a different kind of Bangkok adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does the tour include pickup and drop-off?
Yes, the tour offers round-trip transfer, making it easy to start and end at your hotel or a designated meeting point.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 9:30 am.

Are all entrance tickets included?
Yes, all temples and sites listed in the itinerary include entrance fees, so you won’t need to pay extra at each stop.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a meal is included, giving you a chance to enjoy authentic Thai food during the day.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s especially good for those interested in cultural sights, wildlife, and local markets.

What should I expect at the Bat Temple?
You’ll see hundreds of large fruit bats hanging from the trees, creating a fascinating natural spectacle.

What’s the highlight of this tour?
Many travelers find the Ganesha statue and the wildlife at the Bat Temple to be the most memorable parts.

Is guide commentary detailed?
Based on reviews, guide knowledge varies. Some guides are less informative, so don’t expect in-depth historical explanations at every site.

In the end, this tour offers a quirky, scenic, and culturally diverse snapshot of a part of Thailand not often covered in typical Bangkok sightseeing. It appeals most to those looking for a relaxed, varied day with plenty of photo opportunities, wildlife encounters, and authentic local flavors.