Wat Pho, Bangkok - a row of golden buddha statues sitting next to each other
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Wat Pho Bangkok

4.7
·35k reviews·, Thailand

Wat Pho, Bangkok's oldest temple, is famed for its giant Reclining Buddha and as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning (8:00 AM - 10:00 AM)

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
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Wat Pho, Bangkok - a row of golden buddha statues sitting next to each other

Wat Pho Bangkok

Best Time

Early morning (8:00 AM - 10:00 AM)

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Wat Pho, Bangkok's oldest temple, is famed for its giant Reclining Buddha and as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.

4.7
(35k reviews)

"A must-visit for its awe-inspiring Reclining Buddha and serene temple grounds, offering a deep dive into Thai culture."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Respectful Attire is a Must

Cover shoulders and knees! You can buy elephant pants or a sarong at the entrance if needed.

💧 Stay Hydrated!

Bangkok is hot and humid. Carry water and take breaks in the shade.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Reclining Buddha

The Reclining Buddha

Main Chapel

An awe-inspiring 46-meter-long golden Buddha statue that dominates the hall. It's truly massive!

Temple Grounds & Architecture

Temple Grounds & Architecture

Throughout the complex

Wander through serene courtyards, admire intricate chedis, and discover countless Buddha images. It's a peaceful escape.

Traditional Thai Massage School

Traditional Thai Massage School

Within the temple complex

Experience an authentic Thai massage at the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. Book in advance!

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Planning Your Visit

Dress Code is Key

You'll need to cover your shoulders and knees to enter Wat Pho, and many other temples in Bangkok. Don't get turned away! Pack light, breathable clothing that meets these requirements, or be prepared to buy elephant pants or a sarong at the entrance.

Beat the Heat & Crowds

Bangkok gets hot and humid, and Wat Pho can get busy. Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the worst of the heat and the largest tour groups. Staying hydrated is a must!

Best Times

When
Early morning (8:00 AM - 10:00 AM)
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM)
Why
Golden hour light, fewer tour groups
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

What we got up to in Bangkok! 1. Midnight TukTuk food tour A fun way to see the city and try Thai cuisines from different areas of Thailand. Tour ends at Eagle Nest Bar which has the best view of Wat ...
@nickybuhr
87.3K likes • 3M views

🎯 Respectful Attire is a Must

Cover shoulders and knees! You can buy elephant pants or a sarong at the entrance if needed. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated!

Bangkok is hot and humid. Carry water and take breaks in the shade. TikTok

Một địa điểm check in nên ghé qua khi đến Bangkok để ngắm trọn hoàng hôn Wat Arun bên dòng sông Chao Phraya ☁️☀️ #DicungVanh #thailand #bangkok #reviewthailan #bangkoktravel #dulichthailan #beforesun...
@dicungvanh
71.6K likes • 896.9K views
Tips chụp ảnh tại chùa Wat Arun Bangkok Thái Lan 💕🇹🇭✨📸🙏🏻 #Master2023byTikTok #chupanhcunglechi #LearnOnTikTok #cachtaodang #chinhanhdep #trending #fyp #thailand #watarun
@leechieee
62.8K likes • 1.8M views

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond the Big Buddha

The entire complex is beautiful. Don't miss the intricate chedis and smaller chapels. Reddit

💆‍♀️ Book a Thai Massage

Wat Pho is the birthplace of Thai massage. Treat yourself to an authentic experience! Reddit

reddit.com

Is it possible to tour Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Wat Pho without a tour guide?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Respectful Attire is a Must

Cover shoulders and knees! You can buy elephant pants or a sarong at the entrance if needed. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated!

Bangkok is hot and humid. Carry water and take breaks in the shade. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond the Big Buddha

The entire complex is beautiful. Don't miss the intricate chedis and smaller chapels. Reddit

💆‍♀️ Book a Thai Massage

Wat Pho is the birthplace of Thai massage. Treat yourself to an authentic experience! Reddit

💰 Entrance Fee is Worth It

The fee is reasonable for the experience and upkeep of this historic site. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(35k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Wat Pho is a must-visit in Bangkok, primarily for its awe-inspiring Reclining Buddha and its status as the birthplace of Thai massage. Visitors praise the serene atmosphere and the intricate beauty of the temple grounds. While the dress code can be a minor inconvenience, most find the experience deeply rewarding and spiritually enriching.

"The Reclining Buddha is a lot bigger than I imagined. The front portion is golden, and the bottom of the feet have intricate tiles with mother-of-pearl. There are tons of tourists, but there are sections where you can go further to take a better picture. Mini shrines are throughout the building. There are other buildings on the grounds that contain various other golden Buddhas as well as a section that shows a traditional apothecary. One building has A.C., so my husband and I made a quick stop there to cool off. Worth the visit!"

Athena Poe

"One of Bangkok’s true highlights. Wat Pho is home to the magnificent Reclining Buddha—absolutely massive and genuinely awe-inspiring in person. Beyond the headline attraction, the temple complex is peaceful, beautifully maintained, and rich in history. The intricate architecture and serene courtyards offer a welcome contrast to the bustle of the city just outside. It’s less crowded than the Grand Palace and feels more authentic. Modest dress is required, and there’s a small entrance fee, but it’s well worth it. Give yourself time to wander—it’s more than just a photo stop."

Alex Radford

"So beautiful Buddhist temple complex where you need to spend at least 2h to enjoy everything. It’s not only famous the huge statue of the Reclining Buddha but many other spots. I advise to come early morning since it’s not too hot and less people.

There are fountains with free drinking water, free toilets. You can have a rest in the shadow if you are tired of sun to continue explore the place.

Additionally it’s a place where was born a real Thai massage so you have opportunity to get it there. I advise 1h massage with oil to get deep tissue massage, and don’t forget to ask the blanket since air conditioner is too strong.

You can buy ticket only by cash."

Elena Titkova

What People Like

Massive Reclining Buddha
Beautiful temple architecture
Authentic Thai massage experience

What People Dislike

Strict dress code enforcement
Can get crowded
Heat and humidity

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way is to take the BTS Skytrain from Sukhumvit to Saphan Taksin station, then hop on the Chao Phraya Express Boat (Orange Flag) to Tha Tien pier (N8). Wat Pho is a short walk from the pier. Alternatively, the MRT subway to Sanam Chai station is very close to Wat Pho. Reddit+1

Yes, taxis and Grab (ride-sharing app) are readily available in Bangkok. Just be sure to have the address or show it on your phone, as some drivers might not be familiar with all tourist spots. Reddit

Absolutely! Wat Pho is very close to the Grand Palace. Many visitors combine them in a single day. You can walk between them or take a short tuk-tuk ride. Reddit+1

It's a pleasant 10-15 minute walk from the Grand Palace to Wat Pho. Follow the signs or ask locals for directions. You can also take a short tuk-tuk ride if you prefer. Reddit

While there might be limited parking, it's not recommended to drive yourself due to Bangkok's traffic. Public transport like the BTS, MRT, or Chao Phraya Express Boat is far more convenient. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee for Wat Pho is typically around 200 THB. This fee helps maintain the temple grounds and its historical treasures. Reddit

No, you can purchase tickets at the entrance. However, buying tickets on-site is straightforward and there are usually no long queues for entry tickets themselves. Reddit

Wat Pho is generally open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM. Some sources mention extended hours for the massage school. Always check the official website for the most current information. Reddit

No, you cannot. A strict dress code is enforced. You must cover your shoulders and knees. If you don't have appropriate clothing, you can rent or buy elephant pants or a sarong at the entrance. Reddit

No, the entrance fee covers access to the entire Wat Pho complex, including the magnificent Reclining Buddha. Reddit

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

To truly appreciate Wat Pho, plan for at least 1.5 to 2 hours. This allows time to see the Reclining Buddha, explore the grounds, and perhaps even enjoy a traditional Thai massage. Reddit

The Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho is one of the largest and most revered Buddha statues in Thailand. It symbolizes the Buddha's entry into Nirvana. The intricate mother-of-pearl inlay on its feet depicts auspicious symbols. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Reclining Buddha hall, but be respectful and avoid using flash. TikTok

While the main pathways are relatively flat, some areas may have stairs or uneven surfaces. It can be challenging for wheelchairs in certain sections. Reddit

While you can explore Wat Pho independently, guided tours are available and can offer deeper insights into its history and significance. However, many visitors find it easy to navigate on their own. Reddit

🍽️ 💆‍♀️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are a few small eateries and cafes within the Wat Pho complex where you can grab a snack or a light meal. For more extensive dining options, explore the area around Tha Tien pier. Reddit

The area around Wat Pho and Tha Tien pier offers a variety of Thai street food and local restaurants. You can find everything from Pad Thai and curries to fresh seafood and fruit shakes. Reddit

Absolutely! Wat Pho is renowned as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. The Wat Pho Thai Traditional Massage School is located within the temple grounds. It's highly recommended to book in advance. Reddit

Prices can vary, but a traditional Thai massage at Wat Pho is generally affordable, often starting around 400-600 THB for an hour. It's a great value for an authentic experience. Reddit

Yes, many Thai restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options. Look for dishes made with tofu, vegetables, and coconut milk. You can often ask for modifications to suit your dietary needs. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Reclining Buddha hall itself is a must-capture. Also, the intricate chedis, the temple architecture, and the serene courtyards offer beautiful photographic opportunities. The view of Wat Arun from across the river is also iconic. TikTok+1

No, drone photography is strictly prohibited at Wat Pho and most religious sites in Thailand to ensure the safety and tranquility of the area. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography. The 'golden hour' before sunset provides a warm, beautiful glow on the temple structures. TikTok

Be mindful of 'No Photography' signs in certain areas, especially inside smaller chapels or near sacred artifacts. Always be respectful and avoid using flash photography where prohibited. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grandeur of the Reclining Buddha and the temple architecture. A standard zoom lens is versatile for general shots. Don't forget a fully charged battery and plenty of storage! TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Families with Kids

Wat Pho can be a fascinating place for families, especially with its sheer scale and the impressive Reclining Buddha. Kids are often captivated by the size of the statue and the intricate details of the temple. Encourage them to spot different Buddha images and admire the colorful chedis. The temple grounds offer space to wander, but keep an eye on them as it can get crowded. Remember the dress code applies to everyone, so ensure children are also dressed appropriately. Consider a shorter visit if your children have a limited attention span, focusing on the main highlights. TikTok

Budget Travelers

Wat Pho is an excellent choice for budget travelers. The entrance fee is very reasonable, and it offers a significant cultural experience without breaking the bank. You can easily reach Wat Pho using public transport like the BTS and MRT, which are cost-effective. Pack your own water and snacks to save money, or enjoy affordable local food from vendors outside the temple. The opportunity to experience an authentic Thai massage at a relatively low cost is also a major plus. Reddit

Culture & History Enthusiasts

For those interested in Thai culture and history, Wat Pho is an absolute must-visit. It's one of Bangkok's oldest temples and played a significant role in the development of Thai medicine and traditional massage. The intricate architecture, the numerous Buddha images, and the historical significance of the site offer a deep dive into Thailand's rich heritage. Consider hiring a local guide or using an audio guide to gain a more in-depth understanding of the temple's history and symbolism. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Majestic Reclining Buddha

The star attraction at Wat Pho is undoubtedly the Reclining Buddha. This colossal golden statue, measuring an impressive 46 meters long and 15 meters high, is a breathtaking sight. It depicts the Buddha in his final resting pose, symbolizing his entry into Nirvana. The statue is adorned with intricate mother-of-pearl inlay on its feet, depicting auspicious symbols. Visitors often feel a sense of awe and tranquility upon seeing it for the first time. Remember to dress respectfully, as this is a sacred site. Reddit

Exploring the Serene Temple Grounds

Beyond the Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho is a sprawling complex filled with beautiful architecture and peaceful courtyards. You'll find numerous chedi (stupas), each with its own unique design, and countless smaller Buddha images scattered throughout the grounds. It's a wonderful place to wander, soak in the spiritual atmosphere, and escape the city bustle. Take your time to admire the detailed murals and the overall design of the temple. Reddit

The Birthplace of Thai Massage

Wat Pho is not just a temple; it's also recognized as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. The Wat Pho Thai Traditional Massage School is located within the temple complex, offering authentic massages to visitors. Many travelers rave about the experience, describing it as both relaxing and therapeutic. It's highly recommended to book your massage in advance, especially during peak season, as appointments fill up quickly. This is a unique opportunity to experience a centuries-old healing art. Reddit

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