Wat Pho- The oldest and biggest temple complex of Bangkok
Wat Pho is popular among both Thai and tourists. This large temple is famous for its statues and owns more Buddha statues than any other temples in Thailand.
The architecture of Wat Pho
Wat Pho (Wat Phro Chetuphon), located behind the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is a must-do for any visitor in Bangkok. As one of the largest temples complex in the city, Wat Pho is famous for its 46-meter goldden reclining buddha statue. Only a 10 minute walk from the Grand Palace. This is also a great place to get a traditional Thai massage. Wat Pho is often considered one of the best massage schools in Thailand, so this is also an ideal place if you want to loose your body a bit..
The highlight of your trip to Wat Pho of course is the spectacular statue of reclining buddha Chetuphon : 15 meters high, 46 meters long, the entire Buddha statue overwhelms the space of the temple. The Buddha’s feet is 5 meters long and decorated with a mother-of-pearl style with illustrations of ‘laksanas’ (physical characteristics) of the Buddha.
The famous Statue of Reclining Buddha
Before entering the temple, you should take off shoes and if you want to get a little luck, can buy a bowl of coins at the entrance and drop it in the 108 bronze bowls (the number 108 is a significant number, referring to the positive actions and symbols that helped lead Buddha to perfection) along the walls of the temple. Don’t be sad if your wishes don’t come true, the money you put in the 108 bowls will go towards helping the monks renovate and preserve Wat Pho.
Besides the spectacular reclining buddha statue, the rest of the temple is really worth taking a look around.Recommend sites include four chapels that contain 394 gilded Buddha images, long lines of golden statues from different parts of Thailand sitting in the lotus position. Although the intricately detailed murals that cover the walkways around Wat Pho will require a book or guide to decipher, the exquisite murals are so detailed and intricate that even if you don’t understand all the imagery you can still appreciate the artwork.
As this is a sacred place, all visitors must wear appropriate clothing; this means no exposed shoulders or skin above the knee.
How much is Wat Pho Bangkok entry fee?
Since December 2012, entrance to the temple costs 100 baht and the visiting time is between 08:00 and 17:00. There are also plenty of good English speaking guides in Wat Pho who will provide you with lots of interesting information for around 200 – 400 baht, depending on how many people there are in your group and how good your negotiating skills are.
Wat Pho ticket booth
At the current exchange rate, the price for a Wat Pho tour is around $6 to $12. Compare to the experience you can have here, I say that it’s worth every penny.
