THE RECLINING BUDDHA - WAT PHO

THE TEMPLE OF THE RECLINING BUDDHA (WAT PHO)

Wat Pho is an 80,000-square-meter Buddhist temple located 700 meters south of the Grand Palace. It houses the largest collection of Buddha figurines in Thailand, including the world-renowned,

46-meter-long gold-plated Reclining Buddha. Recognized as one of Bangkok’s most ancient temples, Wat Pho is officially classified as a first-class royal temple. Originally known as Wat Photharam, its name references the Bodhi tree monastery in Bodh Gaya, India, where the Buddha attained enlightenment.

The temple existed before King Rama I, founded Bangkok as the capital in 1782. He expanded and rebuilt the complex on the site of an earlier temple, which became his principal temple. Some of the King’s ashes are even enshrined there. Later, King Rama III (1787–1851) further enlarged and extensively renovated Wat Pho.

Wat Pho is widely regarded as the birthplace of traditional Thai medicine and massage, which continue to be taught and practiced onsite. Visitors can even learn Thai massage or receive a traditional treatment from qualified practitioners on the temple grounds.

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A HUB OF PUBLIC EDUCATION

Historically, Wat Pho was intended as a center of learning for the general public. Pictorial encyclopedias were engraved on granite slabs, illustrating and explaining eight main subjects: history, medicine, health, customs, literature, proverbs, lexicography (the art of compiling dictionaries), and Buddhism. These slabs are placed around the temple, including at Hermit Hill, which features statues demonstrating ancient massage techniques and yoga postures.

Inside the library walls, there are drawings of constellations, inscriptions about local administration, and paintings of folk tales and farming practices.

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THE RECLINING BUDDHA​

The Reclining Buddha’s pose represents the Buddha entering complete spiritual enlightenment—free from all worldly desires. The soles of the statue’s feet are inlaid with exquisite mother-of-pearl, featuring a wheel (dharma) at the center of each foot, symbolizing cause and effect as well as a powerful chakra point where universal energy flows into the body.

These feet are further divided into 108 sections, showcasing auspicious symbols that identify the Buddha, such as flowers, dancers, white elephants, tigers, and altar accessories.

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MAKING MERIT

Around the Reclining Buddha is a corridor holding 108 bronze bowls, each representing one of the 108 auspicious characteristics of the Buddha. It is believed that donating coins into these bowls brings wealth and prosperity. These offerings support the Monks and community, helping maintain the temple’s important cultural activities.

Banknotes can be exchanged for coins at the temple, it is  possible to make merit online by donating.