The Majestic Reclining Buddha and the Seat of Thai Traditional Massage
Travel Like The Wind : Suchart Choolee
Wat Phra Chetuphon Vimolmangklararm Rajwaramahaviharn, commonly known as Wat Pho, ranks among the highest class of royal temples in Bangkok. Located near the Grand Palace in the Phra Nakhon district, the temple serves not only as a revered center of Buddhist worship, but also as the “Seat of Thai Traditional Massage,” gaining recognition both nationally and internationally.
The temple’s origins trace back to the Ayutthaya period, when it was originally named Wat Photharam. During the reign of King Rama I of the Rattanakosin period, a major restoration was ordered, and the temple was elevated to the status of a royal monastery. Later, under King Rama III, further expansions took place with the goal of making the temple a hub of Thai wisdom and education. These developments earned Wat Pho the title “Thailand’s First University.”
Wat Pho’s art and architecture display a remarkable blend of Thai and Chinese styles. Notable highlights include the four royal pagodas (chedis), intricately carved stone courtyards, and the world-renowned Reclining Buddha (Phra Buddha Saiyas), the temple’s most celebrated feature. This statue measures over 46 meters in length and 15 meters in height, entirely covered in gold leaf. The reclining posture represents the Buddha’s entry into Nirvana. The soles of the feet are inlaid with mother-of-pearl, featuring 108 auspicious symbols. Visitors from all over the world come to admire this masterpiece of Thai sculpture, considered one of the most beautiful reclining Buddhas in the country.
Another unique element of Wat Pho is the Thai Traditional Medical and Massage School, recognized as the first institution of its kind in Thailand. The school serves as a center for preserving and teaching knowledge on herbal medicine, traditional Thai healing practices, and therapeutic massage. UNESCO has recognized Thai massage as part of the world’s intangible cultural heritage, further enhancing the temple’s global significance.
Visiting Hours
Wat Pho is open daily from 08:00 to 19:30
Entrance Fee
300 Thai Baht per adult, which includes a complimentary bottle of water
Free admission for children under 120 cm (4 ft)
Dress Code & Entry Tips
Modest attire is required: cover shoulders and knees. Shorts above the knee aren’t allowed, though trousers can be purchased at the entrance if needed .
Remove shoes before entering temple buildings.
Be mindful of common tourist scams: some touts may falsely claim the temple is closed to direct you elsewhere. Ignore unsolicited offers and head straight for the official entrance by the river.
Best Time to Visit
Early morning or late afternoon is ideal. These times are cooler and less crowded Time Travel TurtleAgoda.
Gates are regularly locked at closing time and entry is enforced strictly
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