Wat Pho

Wat Pho, formally Wat Phra Chetuphon, is a major Buddhist temple complex in the Phra Nakhon district of Bangkok, Thailand, known for its large Reclining Buddha statue and as a centre for traditional Thai massage.

The site’s best-known attraction is a 46-metre-long Reclining Buddha inside the main hall; the complex also contains extensive cloisters filled with many Buddha images and historic chedis. Wat Pho houses a longstanding traditional Thai massage school that continues to teach and offer treatments.

The temple has origins predating the current Bangkok capital and was substantially restored and expanded under early Chakri dynasty kings in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, consolidating its role as a major religious and educational centre.

Located immediately south of the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Pho sits in Bangkok’s historic core and is within easy walking distance of other central heritage sites.

• Reclining Buddha dimensions: The Reclining Buddha statue measures about 46 metres in length and 15 metres in height and is covered in gold leaf with mother-of-pearl inlaid feet.
• Location and timing: The temple is adjacent to the Grand Palace complex and is commonly visited on the same itinerary as other historic central Bangkok sites; mornings are usually less crowded and cooler for exploring the grounds.

What to See #

• Reclining Buddha statue: The Reclining Buddha is a 46-metre-long statue housed inside the main assembly hall and is one of the temple's best-known features.
• Cloisters and Buddha images: The temple complex includes extensive cloisters and courtyards with hundreds of small Buddha images and inscribed chedis and chapels representing different Thai Buddhist traditions.
• Traditional massage school: A traditional Thai massage school operates on-site, offering treatments and short courses in Thai massage techniques as part of the temple's living cultural functions.