Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho)

insightbangkok — Tue, 20 May 2008 06:09:24 +0000

The most extensive monastery in Bangkok, Wat Pho was built on the site of an older monastery known as Wat Pothraram. Although best known for its enormous Reclining Buddha, it contains many other features which should not be missed.

Scattered over the huge grounds there are a large bot, four great chedis, the viharn of the Reclining Buddha, and other smaller viharns and chedis.

It is suggested that the tourists visit the centres of interest at Wat Po in the following order: First the bot and the surrounding areas; then the four great chedis followed by the Reclining Buddha.

In the courtyard are four large chedis standing opposite the lingam. These chedis represent the first four Kings of the Chakri Dynasty.

The viharn of the great Reclining Buddha is in the western courtyard. This image, representing the Buddha as he was attaining Nirvana, is 46 metres long and 15 metres high. The image is made of cement-covered brick and coated with gold leaf. The soles of the feet are inlaid with mother-of-pearl with 108 signs, marks and qualities by which a true Buddha is recognised.

The building housing the Reclining Buddha is open daily from 9.00 am.-5.00 pm. Admission fee is 50 baht.

Insight Bangkok

Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho)