Wat Pho

 

Wat Pho is one of the most important temples in Bangkok. It’s official name is Wat Phra Chetuphon Vimolmangklararm Rajwaramahaviharn. The Wat Pho name comes from the temples previous name, Wat Photharam. Thankfully, someone decided to use Wat Pho instead of the official name. The Wat Pho complex covers an area of about 20 acres and is very close to the Grand Palace.

The main attraction at Wat Pho is the Reclining Buddha. Other things of note are that there are 99 Chedi throughout the complex. There are 4 large Phra Maha Stupas which are dedications to King Rama I through IV.

There are a few rules stressed when you arrive, most of all is to dress appropriately. There are signs posted for women not to wear shorts, short skirts nor shirts that expose the shoulders or back. It is hot in Bangkok and I observed many tourist not prepared for this. These rules are more towards anyone that wants to enter a temple, not just the grounds. Before entering the temple, all should remove shoes, hats and most temples will provide a robe for women to cover their legs and shoulders if they are exposed.

 

Reclining Buddha

The most famous attraction at Wat Pho is the Reclining Buddha. The Buddha is 15 meters high and 43 meters long. The impressive feet of the Buddha are 3 meters high and 4.5 meters long. The feet have 108 auspicious symbols on the bottom. Lined along the inner wall of the temple is 108 bowls. Visitors can purchase coins to drop in the bowls that is believed to bring good fortune.  It is quite a scene. A few things to note. There several signs inside the temple warning visitors to mind their belonging and be alert as pick-pocket artist have been known to work and steal from people as they admire the Buddha. Also, I would recommend bringing a wide angle lens to capture the entire Buddha.

 

Phra Maha Chedi Si Rajakarn

These four large pagodas are located just inside the white wall. Each is a dedication to one of the King Rama’s I to IV and all are the same height at 42 meters. Each is decorated in mosaic tile with a different color theme for each. The green tile mosaic pagoda is Phra Maha Chedi Sri Sanpetdayarn , built in the reign of King Rama I containing relics of Lord Buddha.  The one with white-tile mosaic is Phra Maha Chedi Dilok Dhammakaroknitarn, representing the reign of King Rama II, was built by his son, King Rama III.  The yellow tile mosaic pagoda, Phra Maha Chedi Muni Batborikharn, is also built by King Rama III for his own reign and for the praise of Buddha.  The dark blue tile mosaic, Phra Maha Chedi Song Phra Srisuriyothai, represents the reign of King Rama IV or King Mongkut.
It cost 100 Baht to enter Wat Pho. This is not bad considering that after you enter, you are given a free bottle of water and a free access code for wifi. The complex is open daily from 8:30am to 6:30pm.

Address: Tha Tien Pier, Chao Phraya River, Bangkok

Directions: The entrance to Wat Pho is on Chetuphon road.

 

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