This world-famous
temple, one of Bangkok's oldest and largest, is located right
south to the Grand Palace. Wat Pho was built by King Rama I (reigned
1782-1809) nearly 200 years ago and houses a gigantic gold-plated
Reclining Buddha. This unique image is 46m long and 15m
high with beautifully inlaid mother-of-pearl soles.
Wat Pho is
also a long established center of public education and is sometimes
referred to as Thailand's First University. The temple
is also the center for traditional medical practitioners
in Thailand. Stone plaques and inscriptions describe treatments
for various ailments and methods of massage and meditation. Snake
handlers also have their businesses there.
The building
housing the Reclining Buddha is open daily 8.00-17.00.
