Wat Pho – Reclining Buddha & Birthplace of Thai Traditional
Massage
Wat Pho, officially known as Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan, is one of
Bangkok’s most iconic and historically significant temples. Located just south of the Grand Palace, this
magnificent temple complex is world-famous for housing the Reclining Buddha, as well as being
recognized as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. A visit to Wat Pho offers tourists a perfect blend
of spirituality, art, culture, and wellness.
🌟 The Reclining Buddha – A Symbol of Enlightenment
The highlight of Wat Pho is the Reclining Buddha, one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand and a
must-see attraction for visitors to Bangkok.
Key features of the Reclining Buddha:
 Length: 46 meters
 Height: 15 meters
 Material: Brick structure covered in gold leaf
 Posture meaning: Represents the Buddha entering Parinirvana, the state of final enlightenment
The statue’s feet are particularly remarkable—decorated with 108 auspicious symbols made of mother-ofpearl, representing positive actions and spiritual perfections in Buddhism. Visitors often place coins in the
108 bronze bowls along the corridor, a traditional act believed to bring good luck and merit.

🏯 A Temple of Art, History & Learning
Wat Pho is not just a religious site; it is also considered Thailand’s first public university. King Rama III
ordered the temple to become a center of public education, preserving Thai knowledge for future
generations.
What makes Wat Pho unique:
 Over 1,000 Buddha images, the largest collection in Thailand
 4 large Chedis (stupas) dedicated to the first four Chakri Kings
 Ancient stone inscriptions on:
o Thai medicine
o Massage techniques
o Yoga and body stretches
 Beautiful murals depicting Thai culture, folklore, and daily life
These inscriptions are so valuable that they have been recognized by UNESCO’s Memory of the World
Programme.

💆 Thai Traditional Massage School – World-Renowned Wellness Experience
Wat Pho is internationally respected as the origin of Thai traditional massage. The Wat Pho Thai
Traditional Medical and Massage School operates within the temple grounds and attracts students and
visitors from around the world.
Massage services available for tourists:
 Traditional Thai massage
 Foot reflexology
 Herbal massage
All treatments are performed by professionally trained therapists following authentic techniques passed
down for generations. This makes Wat Pho one of the best places in Thailand to experience a genuine Thai
massage in a historic setting.
📍 Location & Visitor Information
 Location: Near the Grand Palace, Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok
 Opening Hours: Daily, approximately 08:00 – 18:30
 Entrance Fee: Around 200 THB (includes a bottle of drinking water)
 Dress Code: Modest attire required (covered shoulders and knees)
✨ Why Wat Pho Should Be on Every Tourist’s Itinerary
Wat Pho is more than a temple—it is a living museum of Thai heritage. Visitors can:
 Admire one of the world’s largest reclining Buddha statues
 Learn about ancient Thai medicine and education
 Relax with an authentic Thai massage
 Experience a peaceful spiritual atmosphere in the heart of Bangkok
For travelers seeking culture, history, spirituality, and wellness in one destination, Wat Pho is an
unmissable stop on any Bangkok tour.