Ancient Ruined Vihara in Ang Thong Draws Visitors Seeking Luck

According to a report by Khaosod Online Thailand on August 10, 2026, the 'Wihan Klaep' (husk vihara) at the abandoned Wat Nong Tao in Pho Thong district, Ang Thong province, is attracting a steady stream of locals and tourists. The site, which is over 100 years old, is notable for being completely enveloped by a large Bodhi tree.

Visitors are drawn to the site to pray for good fortune, a practice fueled by reports from those who claim to have experienced success in previous lottery draws. Some individuals have returned to the site to fulfill vows of gratitude. During these visits, many participate in traditional rituals, such as drawing lots from a jar or observing incense sticks to interpret numbers. Recent reports indicate that visitors have identified the numbers 40 and 280.

The site is also steeped in local folklore. Residents have shared accounts of hearing traditional 'Pi Phat' music and witnessing figures dressed in traditional Thai attire dancing near the ruins on Buddhist holy nights. While the temple itself no longer functions as a religious institution—leaving behind only the 6-by-12-meter structure and the surrounding tree—it remains a point of cultural interest. Travelers should note that these activities are based on local beliefs and anecdotal experiences. Whether these sightings or the efficacy of the requested fortunes have any objective basis remains a matter of personal interpretation and local legend.