Wat Pho

This immense and awe-inspiring complex is the largest temple in Bangkok and is reputed to be Thailand's oldest learning centre.

Quite fittingly, it also contains the oldest and largest reclining Buddha in Thailand. The feet of the Buddha, which are over 3 metres long, have been inlaid with mother-of-pearl displaying 108 different characteristics of the Buddha. The gold-plated statue is 46 metres long and 15 metres high and represents the ascension of Buddha to Nirvana. 



The wall facing the Buddha is lined with collection cups into each of which you can drop a coin for good luck. Small change is available at the desk. You can also purchase temple rubbings made from cement casts of marble reliefs removed from ruins at Ayutthaya.



One of the galleries in the northeastern corner of the compound houses 394 Buddha images. The building itself is a three-tiered temple, with Chinese rock sculptures at its entrance. The walls of another sanctuary are adorned with relief plaques that delicately retell stories from the Ramakien. You will also notice four chedis that were built to represent the first four kings who ruled during the current Chakri dynasty.



The original temple dates from the 16th century, although the complex was entirely rebuilt in the late 18th century. Wat Pho is also home to a Traditional Medicine School and in the afternoons your ailments can be treated by traditional methods. Traditional massage is also available – try one with an herbal poultice – and classes are held for foreigners.

As one of Bangkok's most popular tourist sites, Wat Pho is always crowded. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to wander the grounds; two hours should do it.