In Thailand, the predominant religion is Buddhism, which means that temples, or wats, abound. Because there are so many temples, it cn be hard for visitors to know which ones to visit. The largest and oldest temples in Bangkok, Wat Pho, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is one of these temples.
The Temple
Located directly behind the Grand Palace, Wat Pho is an easy walk for those visiting the palace. Once you enter, visit the temple in which one of the largest reclining buddhas is housed. For those not dressed properly, shawls are available for use to cover up shoulders and legs.
I was unprepared for the sheer size of the statue, and couldn't believe how large it was. The buddha reaches a length of 160 feet from head to toe! It is quite impressive, and several areas in the temple allow for some great pictures. Just make sure to include a person so others understand just how big it is!
On the soles of the buddha's feet are mother-of-pearl illustrations of Buddha characteristics. The feet are huge as well and quite beautiful. On the back side of the buddha, 108 bowls line the wall, each one symbolizing one of the symbols or actions that led Buddha to perfection. You can purchase pennies for about 20 baht that can be dropped into each bowl along the wall toward the exit. All the money goes towards restoration of the temple.
The Grounds
In addition to the temple, the surrounding grounds of Wat Pho are also quite impressive. There are over one thousand images of Buddha, which is very apparent once you start to walk around. The Wat Pho grounds tend to be less crowded than the Gand Palace, which means visitors can meander in a much more relaxed manner.
As you stroll, you might notice the 91 chedis (or stupas) that are decorated in many colors and flower ceramics and sit all around the grounds. Make sure to visit the chapels where long rows of gilded buddhas sit in the lotus position along the walls, one of the iconic images of Wat Pho. There are also funny statues all around that depict different thai massage positions, and resemble yoga.
Toward the back of the grounds, visitors can find the famous massage school. This school is recommended by many Thai people as the best place to get a thai massage, and many of the best masseuses have trained in the school there. There is nothing more relaxing after a long day of walking than a Thai massage. I would recommend checking in early to book a spot before exploring the temple or you may encounter long waits.
Cost
The entrance fee to the temple and grounds for foreigners is 200 baht (as of January 1, 2015 and onward). At the time of my visit, this included a coupon for a free water which could be redeemed to the left of the entrance of the temple. In the Bangkok heat, a free water is an amazing treat to have!
Children under 4 feet (120 cm) are free!
Prices for the Thai Medical School Massages are as follows:
- Thai massage 30 minutes, 260 baht
- Thai masage 1 hour, 420 baht
- Foot massage 30 minutes, 280 baht
- Foot massage 1 hour, 420 baht
Getting There
Unfortunately, there are no train stops in the immediate area of the temple. However, depending on your location, there are several local buses that stop close by. Any taxi or tuk-tuk could also take you there. Just make sure to get a taxi that uses the meter or negotiate the flat-rate price of the tuk-tuk.
Temple Info
2 Sanamchai Road, Grand Palace Subdistrict
Pranakorn District, Bangkok 10200
Open: Daily from 8:00 – 18:30 (6:30 PM)
Massages until 17:00 (5:00 PM)