Wat Pho – The Temple of the Reclining Buddha

Wat Pho, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is a must-see destination for travelers visiting Bangkok, Thailand. Located in the Phra Nakhon district, Wat Pho is one of the oldest and largest temples in the city and is home to a number of important cultural and historical artifacts.

The highlight of Wat Pho is the enormous reclining Buddha statue, which measures 46m long and 15m high. The statue, which is made of brick and covered in gold leaf, depicts the Buddha in the final moments of his life as he enters the state of Nirvana. The statue is an awe-inspiring sight, and visitors can walk along its length, taking in the intricate details of the statue’s form and design. Visitors can walk along and around the statue’s length, marveling at its size and beauty.

In addition to the reclining Buddha, Wat Pho is home to more than 1,000 other Buddha images, as well as a number of beautiful murals and decorative elements.

The temple is a beautiful architectural masterpiece, with intricate details and vibrant colors adorning its walls and roofs.

Visitors can explore the grounds, taking in the sights of the many shrines and statues scattered throughout the temple complex.

One of the highlights of Wat Pho is the Reclining Buddha, located in the temple’s main hall. The massive statue is covered in gold leaf and depicts the Buddha in his final moments before entering nirvana.

Wat Pho is also home to one of Thailand’s oldest and most renowned massage schools. Visitors can book a traditional Thai massage and experience the healing power of this ancient practice.

In addition to the main temple complex, Wat Pho also features an impressive collection of Buddha images and other artifacts in its on-site museum. This is an excellent opportunity for visitors to learn more about the history and culture of Thailand.

Overall, a visit to Wat Pho is a truly unique and memorable experience for any traveler in Bangkok. Whether you are interested in Buddhist history and architecture or want to relax with a traditional Thai massage, Wat Pho has something for everyone.

How to get to Wat Pho: Take the Metro or MRT and get off at Sanam Chai Station. Follow the sign for the right exit.

Where to Stay in Bangkok

Bangkok has places to stay for every traveler. The Khaosan area is a backpacker’s paradise for cheap hostels and accommodations. The nightlife here is insanely loud and crowded. The area of Silom offers LGBTQ-friendly and owned hostels/hostels and other accommodations. Downtown Sukhumvit is posh but posh, but the noise and traffic can be really discouraging. I didn’t stay in these neighborhoods because I prefer a serviced apartment with a good wifi connection. I stayed at Sitara Place Hotel and Service Apartment, which is 6 minutes walk to the MRT and surrounded by malls, street food stalls, and night markets.