A sacred and solemn realm    A must-visit "Wat Pho" on your trip to Thailand

▲ Wat Pho is a must-visit destination for travelers to Thailand

▲ The majestic and sacred giant reclining Buddha statue

Reported and photographed by Chongjue Zhi / Bangkok, Thailand

In Bangkok, Thailand, Wat Pho is the largest temple with the highest number of Buddha statues. It is also one of the most popular tourist attractions among both locals and international visitors. Wat Pho is so famous for housing a gigantic reclining Buddha statue and boasting an unrivaled number of Buddha images.

Wat Pho was built during the Ayutthaya period and constructed in the late 18th century under King Rama I. The temple complex houses 99 stupas of various sizes, including 71 stupas that are 7 meters high, earning it the nickname "Forest of Stupas." There are also four large Mahachat stupas, each 41 meters tall, dedicated to Kings Rama I to IV. The pillars, walls, and various shrine halls and pavilions within the main hall corridor of Wat Pho are inscribed with numerous stone inscriptions.

▲ Large Mahachat stupa

▲ The reclining Buddha statue is 46 meters long

When you enter the main hall housing the 46-meter-long reclining Buddha, you can exchange money to place coins into 108 bronze bowls to pray for peace and good fortune, representing the 108 auspicious qualities of the Buddha. The resting golden Buddha symbolizes the Buddha’s attainment of nirvana. The soles of the massive Buddha’s feet are inlaid with mother-of-pearl, creating a breathtaking sight. The temple grounds are expansive, and if you get tired from exploring, you can visit the nearby massage parlors to experience an authentic traditional Thai massage for just 420 Thai baht per hour—comfortable and great value.

▲ The vibrant and ornate exterior attracts foreign visitors to pay homage

▲ Decorative carvings on the exterior of the shrine hall

Wat Pho shares the same dress code requirements as the nearby Grand Palace for all visitors. Before entering, please ensure your shoulders and legs are covered. There is an admission fee for entry, and guided tour services are available. Wat Pho is open daily. When visiting, pay attention to your attire: sandals and shorts are acceptable, but women must not have bare shoulders, otherwise, you will need to rent a shawl at the ticket booth at the entrance.

▲ Stone statues outside the shrine hall

Wat Pho
Admission: 100 Thai Baht (B) for Wat Pho
Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00
Transportation: Take the BTS Skytrain to Taksin Station, exit at Exit 2, go to Central Pier, take a boat heading to the right, alight at Pier 8, then walk out and turn right at the alley entrance.
Address: Ta-Sahakon Building, 392/25-28 Soi Pen Phat 1, Maharaj Road,