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WAT PHO (TEMPLE OF THE RECLINING BUDDHA)
The Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) in Bangkok is the largest temple in Thailand. The temple itself dates from the 13th century but looked very different in those days. Only somewhere around 1830 the reclining Buddha was placed by order of King Rama III. The Wat Pho complex contains more than 1,000 Buddha statues, the best known of which is a reclining Buddha of 46 meters long and 15 meters high. The Wat Pho is a fascinating place to visit when you are in Bangkok and many tourists do so. If you want to avoid the worst crowds you will have to go as early as possible. Next to the mooring of the reclining Buddha, this is also the official school where the famous Thai massage is taught. In addition, the Wat Pho is one of the oldest public universities in Thailand. Wat Pho has a lot to offer you!
The reclining Buddha in the Wat Pho temple
In an immense space near the Wat Pho where the reclining Buddha (in Thai Phra Buddha Saiys) lies, there are 108 bronze bowls in which you can donate a coin. The 108 bowls represent the number of positive actions of Buddha with which he reached the transition to Nirwana (hereafter). These signs also appear on the soles of the reclining Buddha’s feet and are inlaid with mother-of-pearl. By the way, the feet are 3 meters wide and 5 meters high. Furthermore, the reclining Buddha is completely covered with gold leaf and the eyes with mother-of-pearl. A jewel that reclining Buddha!
TIP!
At 08:00 (for the early birds) you can watch a demonstration of Thai yoga in the northeastern part of Wat Pho.
The Wat Pho complex
The reclining Buddha and the Thai massage school are located in the northern part of the temple complex. In the southern part you will find various homes for monks, a school and a Buddhist monastery. In the complex are also several recipes kept of old and traditional Thai medicines. It is possible to hire a guide who will show you around and tell you interesting facts about the temple complex of Wat Pho. The costs are 400 baht for two persons.
TIP!
A massage at Wat Pho costs around 250 baht for 30 minutes and a 35 hour Thai massage course spread over five days (from 09:00 to 16:00) costs around 9,000 baht. Do you really want to follow a course that takes at least three years!
Discover much more in and around the Wat Pho!
Around the reclining Buddha there are several beautiful murals depicting the life of Buddha and his followers. On the entire Wat Pho complex there are more than 1,000 Buddha statues of which the reclining Buddha is only 1. With a bit of luck you will feel like you are in an oasis of peace compared to the temple where the reclining Buddha is located because there are still several spaces in between where countless Buddha statues can be admired. For example, look for the library, prominent gatekeepers and the meditation and prayer room with a meter high golden Buddha (as shown below). What an amazing and above all spiritual place is the Wat Pho!
FIND A NICE PLACE TO STAY IN BANGKOK
Information What Pho
Alternative name: Temple of the Reclining Buddha or Temple of the reclining Buddha
Open: Daily from 08:00 – 18:30
Entrance: 100 baht
Address: Corner Thai Wang Road / Sanam Chai Road in Bangkok
District: Phra Nakon
Route from Khao San Road: 26 minutes walk
With the Chao Phraya River Express: Local line, blue or red flag boat to N8 Tha Tien Pier, then 300 meters walk to Wat Pho / Temple of the Reclining Buddha.
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