Wat Pho Bangkok – Discover the Reclining Buddha & Thai Massage Origin
Wat Pho is one of Bangkok’s most visited temples, famous for its giant Reclining Buddha and as the home of traditional Thai massage. Located next to the Grand Palace, it offers a rich cultural and spiritual experience.
Explore the Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho
The temple dates back to 1688. It comprises a group of buildings with small courtyards, cloisters and modest gardens. The Wat covers a large area. The main building houses the masterpiece of Buddhist art, the Reclining Buddha. This golden statue, 46 metres long and 15 metres high, was built in 1832. It is sumptuous. Its eyes are inlaid with mother-of-pearl, giving the saintly figure a shimmering look. His hair appears to be made up of hundreds of tiny Chedi, accentuating his venerable appearance.
The soles of the Reclining Buddha’s feet are decorated with 108 motifs. These are sacred representations, symbols of the Buddha’s knowledge. The motifs are, in a way, the marks of the stages Buddha went through, the footprints of a path that led him to Liberation. These are traces that the believer must follow, placing his or her own steps in the footsteps of the Buddha. In this way, enlightenment will be possible, because the master has marked out the road, the path to Nirvana.
Note also the finesse and richness of the details on the wall tapestries, which retrace the major stages in the life of the Buddha.
Just after visiting the Reclining Buddha, you can see several Chedi. They are covered in fine, delicate earthenware. The result is a most remarkable and noble work. They are in the pure Wat Arun style.
Explore the Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho
The School of Traditional Thai Massage is housed in a number of buildings all around the building. It is open to locals and foreigners alike. You can take courses here to learn the techniques of this traditional art. For more information, visit their website: here
It is also possible to have a massage:
- Thai massage 30 minutes for 260 Bahts, 1 hour for 420 Bahts,
- Foot massage 30 minutes for 280 Bahts, 1 hour for 420 Bahts.
Visitor Information: Opening Hours, Prices & Access
- Address : Wat Pho - 2 Sanam Chai Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200 (next to the Grand Palace).
- Opening hours: 08:00 - 18:30. Open daily.
- Admission: 300 Baht, free for children under 120 cm tall.
- Correct dress is required: no shorts, no dress too short.
- Wat Pho official website- important for temple news
- How to get there: MRT Blue Line Sanam Chai station
Fun Facts and Legends about Wat Pho
Beyond its visual beauty, Wat Pho holds many fascinating stories and unique records:
🛕 Oldest and largest temple in Bangkok: Wat Pho predates Bangkok’s rise as capital and was restored by King Rama I in the late 1700s.
📏 Giant Reclining Buddha: At 46 meters long, the statue represents the Buddha entering Nirvana — a moment of peace, not death.
📚 Birthplace of Thai massage: The temple is considered Thailand’s first public university, with inscriptions teaching medicine, astrology, and yoga.
🔠 Record-breaking name: The temple’s full name is Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan — one of the longest temple names in the world.
🧘♂️ Sacred symbolism: The 108 patterns under the Buddha’s feet represent auspicious signs leading to enlightenment.
These facts deepen the visitor’s understanding and appreciation of Wat Pho’s spiritual and cultural significance.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wat Pho
What is Wat Pho famous for?
Wat Pho is renowned for its giant Reclining Buddha statue, measuring 46 metres long, and for being the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.
How much is the entrance fee for Wat Pho?
The entrance fee is 300 Baht per adult. Children under 120 cm enter for free.
What is the dress code at Wat Pho?
Visitors must dress respectfully: no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops. Shoulders and knees must be covered.
How do I get to Wat Pho?
The temple is easily accessible by MRT. Get off at Sanam Chai Station on the Blue Line, then walk 5 minutes to the entrance.
Can I get a massage at Wat Pho?
Yes, Wat Pho has a massage school on-site where you can book traditional Thai or foot massages, and even take courses.
Is Wat Pho near the Grand Palace?
Yes, it’s located just south of the Grand Palace—only a few minutes’ walk away, making it easy to visit both in one trip.
What to See Around Wat Pho
Wat Pho is ideally located in Bangkok’s historic district. After visiting the Reclining Buddha, you can easily explore these nearby attractions:
- Grand Palace (5-minute walk): The former royal residence and home of the Emerald Buddha. A must-see for first-time visitors.
- Wat Arun (10-minute ferry ride across the Chao Phraya River): Also called the Temple of Dawn, known for its iconic Khmer-style tower and scenic views.
- Tha Tien Market: A lively riverside area with traditional shops and local snacks — great for a quick break or souvenir hunting.
- Museum Siam: A fun and interactive museum exploring Thai identity, just a short walk from Wat Pho.
These attractions make it easy to spend a full cultural day in Bangkok’s Old City.
Must-sees in Bangkok
Planning your Bangkok trip? See our full Bangkok Travel Guide:
