Wat Pho, Buddhist temple complex in Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok, Thailand
Wat Pho is a sprawling temple complex filled with pavilions, cloisters, and smaller shrines spread across a large compound. The most striking feature is an enormous reclining Buddha covered in gold leaf that stretches nearly 46 meters, though the grounds also hold over 1,000 additional Buddha images of varying sizes and styles throughout the site.
The temple was founded in the 16th century but underwent major renovation in 1788 under King Rama I, who had just moved the capital to Bangkok and built the Grand Palace nearby. This transformation established it as a key religious center during the founding of the new kingdom.
The temple serves as the heart of traditional Thai massage and healing practices, with dedicated schools where students learn these ancient techniques from experienced practitioners. Visitors often observe healers at work, preserving knowledge that has been passed down through families and generations.
The temple is open to visitors daily, but you should dress appropriately with long pants and sleeved clothing, and remove your shoes before entering buildings. There is much ground to cover, so allow plenty of time and be prepared for uneven surfaces and stairs throughout the complex.
The soles of the reclining Buddha are inlaid with mother-of-pearl depicting 108 different characteristics of Buddha, a number of spiritual significance in Buddhism. Behind the statue sit 108 bronze bowls where visitors can place coins, creating an interactive connection to this sacred number.
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