Wat Pho, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is one of กรุงเทพฯ’s oldest and most revered temples, steeped in rich history and cultural significance. Founded in the 16th century during the พระนครศรีอยุธยา period, it was extensively restored and expanded in the late 18th century by King Rama I, who established it as a quintessential example of Thai religious architecture and a centre for education in traditional medicine and Thai massage. The temple complex is a sprawling site, offering visitors a glimpse into Thailand’s spiritual and artistic heritage, adorned with intricate murals, stupas, and thousands of Buddha images.
Today, Wat Pho is most famous for housing the magnificent Reclining Buddha, a colossal statue measuring 46 meters long and 15 meters high. This stunning figure, covered in gold leaf, depicts the Buddha in a serene, reclining position, symbolising his entry into Nirvana and liberation from the cycle of rebirth. The statue’s feet are particularly striking, inlaid with mother-of-pearl displaying 108 auspicious symbols, a sacred number in Buddhism believed to represent the number of earthly desires one must overcome to reach enlightenment. As a small experiment you can throw coins into 108 pots and try to count them correctly. The quiet hum of monks chanting prayers within the temple adds to the profound spiritual atmosphere, resonating through the ancient halls.
Aside from its religious significance, Wat Pho is also renowned as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage, a practice that traces its roots back over two centuries within this very temple. Visitors can experience authentic Thai massage at the temple’s massage school, where practitioners use a combination of gentle stretching, acupressure, and rhythmic compression to promote relaxation and healing. This form of massage is not just a physical treatment but also a holistic therapy aimed at balancing the body’s energy lines, offering visitors a restorative experience deeply connected to Thai wellness traditions. I tried it out myself and it was a unique experience.
A stroll through Wat Pho reveals a captivating blend of history, spirituality, and culture. Beyond the Reclining Buddha, one can explore numerous chedis, pavilions, and statues that bear witness to countless artisans’ craftsmanship over centuries. The temple remains a vibrant hub where tradition continues to thrive, making it a must-visit destination for anyone wishing to immerse themselves in the heart of กรุงเทพฯ’s cultural and religious life. The whispers of monks’ chants and the gentle touch of Thai massage together evoke an enduring sense of peace and healing that lingers long after one departs.
Wat Pho
กรุงเทพฯ
Thailand
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