Located right next to the Grand Palace of Bangkok and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Pho is one of the most significant sights of interest in Bangkok. The majestic building has been around for over 250 years, hosting the so-called longest Reclining Buddha in the world.
The official name of the temple is Wat Phra Chetuphon, sitting on an expansive complex that is known as one of the largest temple complexes in the capital city.
To make it easy for the time-strapped day, you can combine Wat Pho with a visit to the Grand Palace on the same day. In this article, I’m gonna show you what to see in the temple, the dress code, and how to get there.
How to Get to Wat Pho in Bangkok?
To go to Wat Pho, you need to take the BTS Skytrain to Saphan Taksin Station, head out of Exit 2 and walk to Sathorn Pier. From there, catch the Chao Phraya Express Boat towards Tha Tien Pier. Wat Pho should be a 3-minute walk away from the pier.
The second option is with the MRT. Arrive at the Sanam Chai Station, head out of Exit 1 and the temple is 5 minutes away.
What to Dress for Wat Pho?
Basically, anything that reveals too much of your skin should be left at home. If you have items like sleeveless blouses, see-through or low-cut blouses, shorts, ripped pants, or gym clothes, steer clear of them.
Opt for anything that’s breathable but also sufficient to cover the shoulders and knees. I got myself the Thai fisherman pants and covered the shoulders with a loose-fit Japanese coat during my visit and it worked like a charm.
Best Things to See and Do at Wat Pho
The Reclining Buddha
It goes without saying that the 46-meter-long Reclining Buddha statue is the must-see of the temple, located within the main hall. The 15-meter-high statue represents Sakyamuni Buddha with his iconic pose when entering Nirvana.
108 Coins
Right next to the Reclining Buddha is a chain of bronze bowls. You can purchase a small bowl that contains 108 coins, walk along the wall behind the statue and drop a coin in each bowl.
This is considered to be a meditative and wishing practice that signifies the holy number in Buddhism – 108.
All the coins brought by visitors would be recollected for the operation and renovation of Wat Pho.
Ubosot Hall – Phra Ubosot
Ubosot is the assembly hall outside of the main hall and they use it for monastic rituals. The gorgeously designed hall with intricate and colorful details was constructed during the reign of King Rama I, boasting a traditional and classic Ayudhya style.
If you look closer, the windows and doors are made of precious wood, carved with spires and color-glazed tiles.
When you walk into the entrance, take a closer look at the pearl inlays on the outside of the door. The inlays are exquisitely carved to tell the Ramakien epic novel sequence in Thai history.
Traditional Thai Massage
If you wanna end your trip to Wat Pho on the right note, I highly recommend checking out the first Thai massage school in the country. Wat Pho now serves as the headquarters for traditional Thai medicine and massage preservation and education.
Dating back to the early ages, the temple once served as a center for traditional Thai medicine, meaning Thai massage was one of the practices included. All masseurs have to pass the exam at the school before receiving a license for work. The center is now still in function and opens for walk-in guests at an extra cost.
Albeit touristy, Wat Pho and the Reclining Buddha open a gate to Thai history and culture. With such a marvelous depiction of architecture, statues, and stories, make sure you have a local guide to accompany you during the trip. Once your visit comes to an end, stop by the Chao Phraya River for a pleasant boat ride and discover many scenic attractions lining up along this ‘bloodline’ of Thailand’s capital city.
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