Attraction
The Grand Palace
Bangkok's former royal residence, a walled complex of throne halls, courtyards and the revered Temple of the Emerald Buddha beside the Chao Phraya River.
Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
One of Bangkok's oldest and largest temples, famous for its 46-metre gilded Reclining Buddha and as the historic home of Thai traditional massage.
At a glance
- Type
- Buddhist temple
- Area
- Rattanakosin, Bangkok, Thailand
- Official site
- watpho.com
Good to know
- Online tickets
- Traditional massage school
Why we recommend it
Just south of the Grand Palace, Wat Pho is a sprawling monastery whose chief attraction is the Reclining Buddha, a gold-leafed figure that fills its hall from end to end, its feet inlaid with mother-of-pearl. Beyond that hall lies a calmer world of chedis tiled in ceramic, rows of seated Buddha images and shaded courtyards that many visitors rush past.
The temple is regarded as the birthplace of Thai massage, and its school still offers treatments on site, making it a good place to rest tired legs after sightseeing. Combine it with the Grand Palace in the morning, then take the cross-river ferry from Tha Tien pier to Wat Arun. Dress modestly, as you would at any working temple, and check the official website for current visiting arrangements.
Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) FAQs
Is Wat Pho near the Grand Palace?
Yes, it sits directly south of the palace on Sanamchai Road, a short walk away.
Can you get a massage at Wat Pho?
Yes, the temple is home to a traditional Thai massage school that offers treatments to visitors.