Wat Pho, officially known as Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan, is one of Bangkok’s oldest and most significant temples. Famous for housing the magnificent Reclining Buddha, this temple complex is also recognized as Thailand’s first public university and the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.
Essential Information:
- Location: 2 Sanamchai Road, Grand Palace Subdistrict, Bangkok
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM daily
- Entrance Fee: 200 THB (includes a complimentary bottle of water)
- Dress Code: Modest clothing required (no shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing attire)
Key Attractions:
1. The Reclining Buddha:
- Length: 46 meters
- Height: 15 meters
- Covered in gold leaf
- Mother-of-pearl inlaid feet featuring 108 auspicious characteristics of Buddha
- Represents Buddha entering Nirvana
2. Temple Complex Features:
- 394 gilded Buddha images
- 91 chedis (stupas)
- 4 royal-grade stupas
- Traditional Thai massage school and center
- Vast collection of marble inscriptions about medical treatments
- Beautiful Chinese-style rock gardens
- Ancient murals depicting Buddhist stories
3. Thai Traditional Massage School:
- World-renowned massage training center
- Massage services available (400-800 THB per hour)
- Advance booking recommended
- Traditional medicine courses offered
Getting there from Millennium Hilton Bangkok:
1. By Boat (Recommended):
- Take the shuttle boat from Millennium Hilton pier to Tha Tien Pier
- Walking time from pier to Wat Pho: 5 minutes
- Total journey time: approximately 20-25 minutes
- Boat fare: 15-50 THB depending on boat type
2. By Taxi:
- Distance: approximately 5.5 km
- Journey time: 20-30 minutes (traffic dependent)
- Estimated fare: 100-150 THB
- Show address: “วัดโพธิ์” or “Wat Pho, Sanamchai Road”
3. By Tuk-Tuk:
- Journey time: 20-25 minutes
- Negotiate price beforehand (around 150-200 THB)
- Be aware of potential tourist scams
Visiting Tips:
1. Best Times to Visit:
- Early morning (8:00-10:00 AM) to avoid crowds and heat
- Late afternoon (3:00-5:00 PM) for cooler temperatures
- Avoid weekends if possible
2. What to Bring:
- Appropriate clothing (or rent cover-ups at entrance)
- Comfortable walking shoes (must be removed inside temples)
- Water bottle
- Camera
- Small bills for offerings or donations
- Socks (optional, but recommended for walking on hot tiles)
3. Cultural Etiquette:
- Remove shoes before entering buildings
- Speak quietly and respectfully
- Don’t point feet toward Buddha images
- Ask permission before photographing monks
- No smoking or public displays of affection
4. Photography Tips:
- Best light for Reclining Buddha: morning hours
- Tripods generally not allowed inside buildings
- Wide-angle lens recommended for Reclining Buddha
- Beautiful architectural shots in early morning or late afternoon
5. Additional Services:
- Audio guides available (100 THB)
- English-speaking guides can be hired at entrance
- Storage lockers available
- Water refill stations throughout complex
6. Nearby Attractions:
- Grand Palace (10-minute walk)
- Wat Arun (cross-river ferry available)
- Museum Siam
- Pak Khlong Talat (Flower Market)
Traditional Massage Experience:
- Advance booking recommended
- Various massage types available
- Duration options: 30 minutes to 2 hours
- Price range: 260-1,000 THB
- Special packages available
Historical Significance:
- Founded in 16th century
- Expanded by King Rama I
- Home to Thailand’s first medical school
- Contains over 1,000 inscriptions on traditional medicine
- UNESCO Memory of the World recognition for marble inscriptions
Seasonal Considerations:
- Cool season (November-February): Most comfortable
- Hot season (March-May): Very hot, visit early or late
- Rainy season (June-October): Bring umbrella
- Special ceremonies during Buddhist holidays
Contact Information:
- Temple Office: +66 2 226 0335
- Tourist Information: +66 2 225 9595
- Massage School Booking: +66 2 221 2974
Remember to respect the sacred nature of this ancient temple while enjoying its historical and cultural significance. Wat Pho offers a unique glimpse into Thai Buddhism, traditional medicine, and architectural beauty, making it a must-visit destination during your stay in Bangkok.