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Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho)

2 Thanon Sanam Chai, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand

"Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) or Wat Phra Chetuphon, located right behind the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, this is a must-see for any visitor to Bangkok. It is one of the largest temple complexes in the region. The city is famous for its huge 46 m long, gold-plated reclining Buddha."

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) is not only one of the most visited Buddhist temples in Bangkok but it is also a place that combines history, medical science and educational institute. Officially named Wat Prachetuphon Vimon Mangkararam, Wat pho was built in the 16th century as one of the Royal Temples of King Rama I during the Chakri Dynasty.

Inside the main hall is a sacred reclining Buddha 15 meters high, 46 meters long, the feet of the Buddha are 5 meters long, beautifully inlaid with mother-of-pearl and carved with holy signs. Aside from the famous Reclining Buddha, the rest of the temple is well worth a visit. Sites such as the four chapels contain 394 gilded Buddha statues shipped from different parts of Thailand, sitting in full lotus position. Surrounding the aisles of the temple are murals with intricate motifs containing a treasure of historical and religious knowledge. Even if you don't fully understand the meaning and content at first glance, you can still enjoy the work of art by its subtlety to every detail.

Finally, in the courtyard of Wat Pho are a number of unique statues that were once used as ballasts on ships, and 91 stupas that are intricately decorated with colorful ceramics.

Wat Pho is considered the first public university in Thailand thanks to 1,360 marble inscriptions of medicine, history and science all around the temple. All visitors when coming here can read and study at any time. The marble inscriptions of medical science, anatomy, and orthopedics are the source of the traditional massage principles at Wat Pho today, which have made Wat Pho a popular spot. world. It is now better known as a center of massage and traditional medicine. In 2008, Wat Pho was recognized by UNESCO as a Documentary Heritage of the Asia Pacific Region.

After walking around the temple, nothing beats a relaxing massage. If you've never tried a traditional Thai massage, Wat Pho is the place to be.

Opening hours: Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) is open every day of the week from 08:30 - 18:30 (Massage service is open until 18:00)

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