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The Wat Pho is one of the largest and oldest Buddhist temples in Bangkok in Thailand.
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Description
Its official name is Wat Phra Chetuphon Vimolmangklararm Rajwaramahaviharn.
Construction of the present temple began in 1788, on the site of an older temple, the Wat Phodharam, Wat Phois a contraction of its former name.
It was extended, with major restorations, during the reign of Rama III (1824-1851) and was restored again in 1982.
Chedi Rai of Wat Pho
This 8-hectare temple is located east of the river Chao Phrayaimmediately south of the Royal Palace.
The temple complex houses the largest collection of images of Buddha in Thailand, including a 46 m long reclining Buddha.
The temple is considered the first public education centre in Thailand, and the marble illustrations and inscriptions placed in the temple for public instruction have been recognised by UNESCO in its Memory of the World programme.
The temple houses a Thai Medical School and is also known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage which is still taught and practiced in the temple.
See : Wat Pho massage school in Bangkok
The Reclining Buddha
This statue represents Buddha on his deathbed, about to enter the parinirvana. It is 45 metres long and 15 metres high.
The chapel and the reclining Buddha were built by Rama III in 1832.
The image of the reclining Buddha represents the Buddha's entry into Nirvana and the end of all reincarnations.
It is one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand.
Wat-Pho Reclining Buddha
The soles of the Buddha's feet are 3 m high and 4.5 m long and are inlaid with mother-of-pearl representing the 108 states of Buddha.
In the centre of each foot is a circle representing a chakra or energy point.
Foot of the Reclining Buddha
The Phra Ubosot
Phra Ubosot, main hall of Wat Pho
The Phra Ubosot or 'bot' is the main hall which is used to perform Buddhist rituals and is considered the holiest building in Wat Pho.
A golden Buddha statue on a pedestal made of gold and crystal is located inside the building.
Pictures of Wat Pho
Video on Wat-Pho
Useful information
The entrance fee is 100 baht for all visitors, except for children under 120 cm who are admitted free.
Opening hours: 08:00-17:00
Dress code
As with all Buddhist temples, you must be properly dressed to visit Wat PhoWomen's shorts must be short and above the knees, shoulders must be covered and shoes must be removed in order to enter the rooms.
Transport
1. Buses No. 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 25, 32, 43, 44, 47, 48, 51, 53, 82, 103.
2. Air-conditioned bus no. 1, 6, 7, 8, 12, 44
3. Chao Phraya Express Boat. Get off at Tha Chang Pier, Tha Tien Pier or Pak Klong Talad Pier
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