Wat Pho

NileGuide Expert tip:

Get a Thai massage in an air-conditioned salon inside the temple complex. Some signage may spell this as Wat Po, without the H. A rose by any other name...

Description:

• Over 200 years old, Wat Pho is one of Bangkok's largest and oldest temple complexes. For an entry fee of 50 baht, visitors can roam the grounds with or without a guide, stopping along the way at numerous notable temples and sites. The most famous of Wat Pho's relics is the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, wherein lies an impressive 46 meter-long gold-plated image of a reclining Buddha. A first grade royal monastery, Wat Pho is also Thailand's oldest learning center and the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. Take a Chao Phraya River ferry to Tha Thien (pier). The Grand Palace is a short walk from Wat Pho. You can also cross the river from the pier to see Wat Arun. Beware that scam artists (often tuk-tuk drivers) will try to claim that the temple is closed for the day. Don't believe it.
  
  [Note: Pho is pronounced with a P like Paul not an F like a Vietnamese noodle soup]
  
• © NileGuide2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010