One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok, Wat Pho features the spectacular Reclining Buddha. Here Joy, from the Bangkok offices talks about why this temple is worth the visit …
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At 46 meters long and 15 meters high the Temple of the Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho is an amazing sight. This gold-plated Buddha statue depicts the Buddha’s passing into Nirvana, lying on his side head held up by his right hand. It is highly ornate and a genuine spectacle — definitely a Bangkok site worth visiting.
Though giant, the delicate details like Buddha statue’s eyes and feet which are decorated with mother-of-pearl, are remarkable intricate.
There are 108 bronze bowls in the corridor indicating the 108 auspicious characters of Buddha. People drop coins in these bowls as it is believed to bring good fortune. The donation given for the coins also helps the monks maintain the temple.
Wat Pho and the Reclining Buddha are an easy ten minute walk from the Grand Palace and while the Reclining Buddha attracts a crowd, the rest of the grounds are generally a calm and quiet.
Wat Pho, the temple that houses the Reclining Buddha, is also regarded as being Thailand’s first university — the first institution to provide education to the public. The temple is the birthplace of traditional Thai massages and in 1962 a traditional medicine and massage school were established here. Wat Pho Thai massages have become a recognized therapeutic and relaxing massage style, making it a great place to indulge in a massage.
Why not let our top Bangkok guides show you this classic site!