Reclining Buddha, Thai Massage, History, Dress Code and How To Visit
When we first started exploring Bangkok’s temples, Wat Pho quickly became one of our favorites. It felt calmer, more expansive, and more approachable than some of the larger complexes, yet just as impressive. Seeing the Reclining Buddha in person was unforgettable, and it is a place we always recommend to friends visiting the city for the first time.
Wat Pho is one of Bangkok’s most important temples and an essential stop for anyone wanting to understand Thai culture, Buddhism, and traditional Thai massage.
This guide covers everything you need to know before visiting.
What Is Wat Pho
Wat Pho is officially known as Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan. It is one of the oldest and largest temple complexes in Bangkok and is located just south of the Grand Palace.
Wat Pho is best known for three things:
• The Reclining Buddha
• Its role as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage
• Its extensive collection of Buddha images and teaching murals
Unlike Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho is an active monastery with resident monks, which gives it a more lived in and peaceful atmosphere.
The Reclining Buddha
The main attraction at Wat Pho is the Reclining Buddha, one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand.
What You Will See
• Length of approximately 46 meters
• Height of about 15 meters
• Gold leaf covered statue representing the Buddha entering Nirvana
• Mother of pearl inlaid soles of the feet with symbolic designs
The scale is difficult to understand until you are standing next to it. The hall is long and narrow, so you walk along the statue and take in the details from different angles.
Important Visitor Notes
• Shoes must be removed before entering
• Voices should be kept low
• Photography is allowed, but be respectful
Why Wat Pho Is A Must Visit
Wat Pho offers a more complete experience than many temples.
It Is Educational
The temple grounds feature hundreds of inscriptions and murals that were historically used to educate the public on medicine, religion, history, and daily life.
It Is Less Rushed
While popular, Wat Pho feels less chaotic than the Grand Palace, giving you space to explore slowly.
It Combines Culture and Wellness
This is where traditional Thai massage was formalized and preserved, making it both a spiritual and cultural landmark.
Traditional Thai Massage at Wat Pho
Wat Pho is considered the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.
Inside the temple complex, you will find a massage school and treatment area where trained therapists offer authentic Thai massage.
What To Know
• Treatments are professional and traditional
• Prices are higher than street massage shops but fair for the experience
• Appointments can fill quickly, especially midday
Even if you do not get a massage, learning about its history here adds depth to the visit.
What Else To See Inside Wat Pho
Beyond the Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho is massive and full of detail.
Highlights Include
• Over 1,000 Buddha images across the complex
• Four large chedis dedicated to early Chakri kings
• Quiet courtyards and shaded walkways
• Traditional pavilions and teaching halls
It is easy to spend 1.5 to 2 hours wandering without feeling rushed.
Dress Code For Wat Pho
The dress code is respectful but slightly less strict than Wat Phra Kaew.
Required Clothing
✔ Shoulders covered
✔ Knees covered
✔ No see through clothing
✔ No crop tops or very short shorts
If you plan to visit multiple temples in one day, dress conservatively from the start.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Wat Pho requires an entrance fee for foreign visitors.
• Open daily, generally from morning to early evening
• Tickets are purchased at the entrance gates
Hours can change on holidays, so it is best to check the day before your visit.
How To Get To Wat Pho
Wat Pho is centrally located and easy to reach.
Option 1: BTS + River Boat
- Take the BTS to Saphan Taksin
- Walk to Sathorn Pier
- Take a Chao Phraya River boat to Tha Tien Pier
- Walk a few minutes to Wat Pho
This is one of the most scenic and efficient routes.
Option 2: Taxi or Grab
Easy and direct, but traffic can be heavy during peak hours.
Option 3: Walk From The Grand Palace
Wat Pho is only a short walk from the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, making it perfect to combine in one day.
Best Time To Visit Wat Pho
Early morning or late afternoon is best.
• Cooler temperatures
• Fewer tour groups
• Better lighting for photos
Midday can be very hot, especially in the open courtyards.
How Long To Spend At Wat Pho
Plan for:
• 1 to 2 hours exploring
• Extra time if you book a massage
It pairs well with Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, or a riverside lunch.
Common Mistakes Visitors Make
• Rushing straight to the Reclining Buddha and leaving
• Not exploring the outer courtyards
• Forgetting appropriate clothing
• Visiting during the hottest part of the day
Slow down. Wat Pho rewards patience.
Who Will Enjoy Wat Pho
• First time visitors to Bangkok
• Culture and history lovers
• Travelers interested in wellness
• Families with older children
• Anyone wanting a calmer temple experience
It feels approachable even for people who are not usually temple focused.
Is Wat Pho Worth Visiting
Absolutely.
Wat Pho balances grandeur with tranquility. It offers one of the most iconic Buddha statues in Thailand while also telling the story of education, healing, and spiritual life in Bangkok.
It is a place that stays with you long after you leave.
