"Wat Pho: The Sacred Heart of Thai Heritage and Healing"

#watphobangkok
Wat Pho, also known as Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan, is one of Bangkok's most famous and historic temples. It is located near the Grand Palace and is one of the oldest temples in Thailand, dating back to the Ayutthaya period before being rebuilt and expanded by King Rama I in the late 18th century.

Key Highlights of Wat Pho:
1. Reclining Buddha – The temple is most famous for its 46-meter-long and 15-meter-high golden Reclining Buddha, which represents the passing of Buddha into Nirvana.
2. Traditional Thai Massage – Wat Pho is considered the birthplace of traditional Thai massage, and it still houses a renowned massage school.
3. Largest Collection of Buddha Images – The temple has the largest number of Buddha images in Thailand, many collected from various parts of the country.
4. Beautiful Architecture – The temple complex features intricate murals, colorful stupas (chedis), and detailed carvings, reflecting Thai and Chinese artistic influences.
5. Phra Maha Chedi Si Rajakarn – A group of four large stupas, each built by different kings of the Chakri dynasty, symbolizing different phases of Buddhism.
6. Giant Stone Guardians – The entrance gates are flanked by large Chinese stone statues, which were originally used as ballast on trading ships.

Visiting Wat Pho
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Entrance Fee: Around 200 THB (includes a free bottle of water)
Dress Code: Modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered)
Location: Near the Grand Palace and Wat Arun, making it easy to visit all three in one trip.

Post by TravelwithAGE | Mar 26, 2025