Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)

About this Place

Wat Pho is one of Bangkok's oldest and largest temple complexes, predating the founding of the city itself. Its centerpiece is the breathtaking Reclining Buddha — 46 metres long and 15 metres high, covered in gold leaf, with mother-of-pearl inlays on the soles of its feet depicting the 108 auspicious characteristics of the Buddha. The temple grounds span over 80,000 square metres and house more than 1,000 Buddha images across dozens of ornate buildings. Beyond the Reclining Buddha, don't miss the covered cloister galleries lining the perimeter — 394 seated gilded Buddha images look down from tiered platforms in a meditative procession that takes a good 20 minutes to walk. Wat Pho also holds the distinction of being Thailand's first public university, with stone inscriptions on the walls covering traditional medicine, literature, and massage techniques. The renowned Traditional Thai Massage School operates within the complex — a post-temple massage here is a Bangkok ritual. Practical tips: Entry costs 200 THB (includes a cold bottle of water). Arrive before 09:00 or after 15:00 to avoid tour-bus crowds. Dress modestly — sarong wraps are provided at the gate. Located just south of the Grand Palace, the two sites pair naturally into a half-day Rattanakosin itinerary.