Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, has many beautiful temples. One of the best is the Buddha Temple, also called Wat Pho. Wat Pho is famous for its giant reclining Buddha statue, beautiful wall paintings, and calm feeling.
Know more about Buddha Temple:
- Location: Wat Pho (วัดโพธิ์) is located in the historic district of Bangkok, adjacent to the Grand Palace (พระบรมมหาราชวัง). The temple is situated on the southern side of Rattanakosin Island, near the banks of the Chao Phraya River.
- History: The temple dates back to the 16 century, making it one of Bangkok’s oldest temples. It was originally established by King Rama I and later expanded and renovated by subsequent monarchs.
- Reclining Buddha: Wat Pho is renowned for its giant Reclining Buddha (Phra Buddha Saiyas – พระพุทธไสยาส), which is one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand. The gold-plated statue is 15 meters (49 feet) in height and 46 meters (151 feet) in length. The image represents the Buddha in the resting or reclining position during his final moments before attaining Nirvana.
- Chedis: The temple complex houses numerous chedis (stupas) and smaller pagodas, each containing ashes of members of the royal family. The chedis are beautifully adorned with intricate tile work and colorful decorations.
- Thai Massage School: Wat Pho is also known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. The temple houses a traditional Thai medicine and massage school where visitors can receive a massage or learn the art of Thai massage.
- Courtyards and Galleries: The temple grounds feature serene courtyards, peaceful gardens, and galleries with murals illustrating various aspects of Thai history, literature, and culture.
- Opening Hours and Admission: Wat Pho is generally open to visitors daily. There is an admission fee to enter the temple complex, and visitors are required to dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees. It’s advisable to check the official website or contact the temple for the most up-to-date information on opening hours and admission fees.
Tips for Visiting Wat Pho
When you visit Wat Pho, remember these tips:
- Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.
- Take off your shoes before entering any temple buildings.
- Be respectful and ask before taking photos of people, especially monks.
How to Get to Wat Pho
Wat Pho is near the Grand Palace in Bangkok.
You can get there by taxi, tuk-tuk, or boat.
Walking through the old city to reach Wat Pho is also a fun adventure.
Wat Pho is not only a place of worship but also a cultural and historical landmark that attracts visitors from around the world. It provides a rich and immersive experience in Thai art, architecture, and spirituality.
