Wat Pho Guide: Bangkok’s Reclining Buddha Temple
Wat Pho wasn’t in our sights until our friend and Bangkok expert told us that a giant Buddha Statue in a reclining position was the main highlight. Well, you might not know Wat Pho as one of the most iconic temples in Bangkok, but you definitely have heard of the reclining Buddha or seen it…
Wat Pho wasn’t in our sights until our friend and Bangkok expert told us that a giant Buddha Statue in a reclining position was the main highlight. Well, you might not know Wat Pho as one of the most iconic temples in Bangkok, but you definitely have heard of the reclining Buddha or seen it somewhere online — right up there with Wat Suthat and the Grand Palace.
This guide to Wat Pho is everything you should know about. Wat Phra Chetuphon, as it is known in Thai, is closer to the Bangkok flower market and is the largest Wat (temple) in Bangkok, covering about 80,000 square metres — one of the highlights of exploring Thailand. Huge, isn’t it?
Well, through this Wat Pho guide, we will help you plan a visit, from how to get there, tickets and where to go next. It is easy to visit this fantastic temple, even for first-timers in Bangkok, and it slots neatly into a wider one day Bangkok itinerary.
This post includes affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no cost to you. You can also buy us a coffee to support the site directly. Learn more in our Cookie Policy.
Is Wat Pho Temple worth visiting?
Yes, Wat Pho temple is one of the most popular temples in Thailand and also the one that shows the largest number of Buddha images. The entrance fee is steep, as the ticket costs 300 THB, but it is well worth it.
Wat Pho’s complete visit takes about 2 to 3 hours, while a quick overview of the main chapels and the reclining Buddha takes approximately an hour. If you’re still deciding whether Bangkok is worth visiting, a temple of this scale is a strong argument on its own.
Our experience at Wat Pho
Surely the Reclining Buddha is impressive, and you can’t miss it while exploring the Wat Pho Temple ground. The scale of the statue is incredible, and believe us, the photos don’t give it justice.
Not only that, we were impressed by the intricate details of the statue and the surrounding walls. It is a revered place, so keep it quiet and go with the flow.
Donate and light up a candle as a sign of respect. We spent about 2 hours overall, and it was exhausting, also because it was hot (we explored Bangkok during the dry season the first time).
Wat Pho at Glance
| Full Thai name | Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan |
| Location | Rattanakosin district, next to the Grand Palace |
| Nearest transit | MRT Sanam Chai Station, about a 6-minute walk |
| Opening hours | 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM daily |
| Entry fee | 300 THB (roughly £6.7 | €7.8 | $9.1) |
| Best time to visit | Golden hour, shortly before closing, for photos and fewer crowds |
| Time needed | 2–3 hours for a full visit; about 1 hour for the highlights |
❤️🔥 Our favourite tours:
Things to know before visiting Wat Pho – The temple of the reclining Buddha
Wat Pho Opening times and entrance cost
The temple of the Reclining Buddha is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM. A ticket costs 300 THB (roughly £6.7 | €7.8 | $9.1, though exchange rates shift, so it’s worth double-checking before you go).
Do I need a guide for Wat Pho?
No, it’s not necessary to have a guide to visit Wat Pho, as you can go around on your own. However, at the entrance of the temple, you can find local, knowledgeable guides (like this) who can offer insights on what you are seeing.
They are the best people to ask questions and know more about the stories and architecture of the temple. Prices for guides vary, and it costs about 300 THB for one hour around – Or you can book online here before your visit. Remember to get only a certified guide, and don’t fall for people around the temple trying to scam you.
How to get to Wat Pho
Wat Pho is one of the easiest temples to visit in Bangkok, mainly due to its position. The temple of the Reclining Buddha is in the Rattanakosin district, which is the same as Bangkok Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha and is close to Wat Suthat (another temple in Bangkok we suggest visiting).
If you are staying in Siam or Sukhumvit, the best way to get to Wat Pho is by taking the Chao Phraya River Express. Not only is the ride on the river incredible and one of the best things to do in Bangkok, but also the cheapest.
The ferry from central Bangkok to this side of the city is only 16 THB. Arrive at Tha Tien Pier, and from there, walk for about two minutes. Tha Tien Pier is a strategic stop, as it has a short boat (only 5 THB) to Wat Arun on the other side. Read our guide to Wat Arun for more.
Travel Tip: Combine your visit to Wat Pho with a trip to the nearby Grand Palace, Temple of Emerald Buddha, Wat Suthat and Wat Arun. It makes for a perfect day of temple hopping and exploring some of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks.
Which metro station is closer to Wat Pho?
The best way to reach Wat Pho through the Bangkok public transport system is by taking the MRT. The blue line stops at Sanam Chai Station, close enough to walk only for 6 minutes to reach Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan (Wat Pho).
Alternative ways to get to Wat Pho
If you aren’t on the MRT, you can always combine it with the BTS or public buses. Unfortunately, there is no sky train to Wat Pho, and the closest BTS stations are Siam and National Stadium, which are about one hour’s walk away. Not ideal, though!
When you arrive at Stadium BTS station, get out and walk 2 minutes toward MBK MRT Underground Station. If you want to take the bus, 53, 508, 15, 25, 50,1-2E, and 93 will take you there from the Sukhumvit area.
How long spend at Wat Pho
Plan at least 1 hour to get around Wat Pho, but for a deeper visit, we suggest staying for 2 hours. We definitely stayed around 2 hours all around the temple.
Wat Pho is the biggest in Bangkok, and beside the main area, where the Reclining Buddha Statue is, there are a lot of minor chapels worth your time.
What is particular about Wat Pho
The Reclining Buddha statue room
We were awestruck viewing the reclining Buddha statue. It is impressive, and definitely, these words don’t give it justice. As far as we tried to be as respectful as possible, taking photos discreetly, it was impossible to continue clicking on our camera. Every single detail of this massive statue tells you a story that goes beyond religious beliefs.
Phra Buddha Deva Parimakorn is the main Buddha statue of the lord in the posture of ascension into nirvana. The statue is 46 metres long and 15 metres high, and its feet alone measure 5 metres long.
The statue is refined in gold, and mother pearls decorate the feet and eyes. The Reclining Buddha is the centrepiece of Wat Pho and the reason many people visit the temple every day.
The chapel exudes a sense of profound calm and relaxation, and we particularly enjoyed seeing people offering and lighting candles and praying.
Buddha’s Feet
We want to give a special mention to the Buddha’s feet. You might not know, but in Buddhism, it is not customary to show the soles of your feet.
It is different from the statue at Wat Pho, as the soles of Buddha’s feet are embellished with 108 parts of the mother of pearl. You will feel so small standing beneath your feet.
Would you like a free guide?
Stop Scrolling. Your Thailand Itinerary is ready!
Save 15+ hours of research. Download my curated PDF guide with exact routes, food spots, and tips—ready to use offline.
* You can unsubscribe anytime.
Locals offer coins in metal bowls
When we visited Wat Pho, we noticed a fantastic ritual by the locals. They were donating coins, pulling them into special bowls on the sides of the Reclining Buddha Statue.
You can donate 20 THB and receive 108 coins, throwing one for each bowl around the Buddha Statue. As you can see, the number 108 is recurrent.
If you have witnessed an almsgiving in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia, you will recognize this practice, in which Monks go around villages to receive a quest from devotees (alms).
Temple Hall
The temple hall hosts over 350 Bronze Buddha images and is among the most visited places within Wat Pho. Outside the main temple hall, there are another 152 marble slabs surrounding four chedis.
However, one of the highlights besides the Wat Pho temple hall is the abundance of walking paths, gardens, benches, and beautiful ponds with sculptures and inscriptions that tell you a lot about the significance of this temple.
Wat Pho Chapels, Prangs and Courtyard
While the Reclining Buddha is the main attraction, Wat Pho has much more to offer. The complex is home to a series of beautifully decorated chedis (stupas – there are 91 scattered around), each adorned with intricate designs and vibrant colours.
You can walk around the temple compound for hours discovering details. We didn’t have much time, so we skipped some parts. Something you should focus on are the garden, chedi, prangs and small chapels (4).
Bodhi tree
Like every temple, one of the most revered parts is the Bodhi tree, a descendant of the Bodhi tree from Bodhgaya, India, where the Buddha attained enlightenment. You can find it close to the Reclining Buddha Statue, and it is often one of the most visited places within the temple grounds.
The Wat Pho is Bangkok’s first Public University
That Wat Pho has particular relevance for Bangkok and Buddhists in Thailand isn’t a secret, but it is also the first public university in the Capital.
King Rama III had over 1,431 stone inscriptions carved and set into the temple walls, covering medicine, literature and science, to pass Thai knowledge on to future generations.
As of today, Wat Pho is the pinpoint for Traditional medicine. Here, students come to learn Thai medicine and massage practices at the Thai Traditional Massage School. You can get a professional massage or take part in their 30-hour courses for 13,500 Baht.
The dress code at Wat Pho
As with all temples in Thailand, it’s important to dress modestly when visiting Wat Pho. This means covering your shoulders and knees. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are ideal given Bangkok’s often hot and humid climate.
First-Hand Experience: On our visit, we saw many tourists who had to rent sarongs at the entrance because their attire was deemed inappropriate. Save yourself the trouble (sometimes money, as they offer to rent sarongs for a fee) and dress accordingly before you leave your hotel. Once, we missed the visit to the Grand Palace because we were not covered enough and couldn’t bother to purchase “elephant pants.”
Cultural Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts at Wat Pho
When visiting Wat Pho and any temple in Thailand, it’s essential to respect local customs and traditions. Remember that Wat Pho, before being one of the main attractions of Bangkok, was a place of worship and spirituality for many locals. If you follow the below, you will ensure a mindful and meaningful experience that connects you at a deeper level.
Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
Can I wear shorts in Wat Pho?
No. It is necessary to wear long pants or appropriate sarongs, skirts or pants that cover the knee. Also, for ladies, it is necessary to have long-sleeved shirts. For men, visiting the Wat Pho requires pants and short-sleeved shirts.
When to go to Wat Pho for the best photos
Wat Pho is among the most visited temples in Bangkok, even though it is also a religious place that attracts worshippers all day long. However, the Wat Pho isn’t only the Reclining Buddha Statue but the courtyards, Chedis and smaller chapels are beautiful too and worth a photo.
For us, Wat Pho is among the most Instagrammable places in Bangkok, but to snap the best photos, you must visit during the Golden hour, right before closing, to catch the right natural light.
Best tours of Wat Pho
What to do around Wat Pho
Bangkok Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha: It is just a 10-minute walk to visit the Royal Palace of Bangkok, witness the change of the guard, or explore the Emerald Buddha Temple.
Wat Arun Temple: The Temple of Dawn is just on the other side of the river; go back to Tha Tian Pier to catch the 5 THB ferry.
Wat Suthat temple is another beautiful temple in Bangkok, just 20 minutes’ walk from Wat Pho. It is often called the Temple of the Giant Swing.
Khao San Road: The backpacker’s hub is where we based ourselves a couple of times while exploring Bangkok. It is perfect for night outs or getting some food at the street market on the collateral road.
Stretch you walk to Chinatown: The neon of Chinatown Yaowarat road aren’t just for a night stroll. We’ve enjoyed this part of Bangkok many times, and every time of the day and night. It’s formidable, and always buzzing. It’s also one of our favourite area of the city for hotels – budget friendly and surrounded by restaurants, bars and activities.
Get a drink with a view: Easily one of our favourite bars with a view in Bangkok, the Roof Bar offers a perfect view over the main temple of Wat Pho and facing the river, an ideal view of Wat Arun for sunset. It is a hidden gem of Bangkok; don’t spoil it!
Where to eat near the Wat Pho
Pad Thai Kratong Thong is easily one of our favourite restaurants in Bangkok. Our dearest friend Dave took us here on our first few days in Bangkok. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly owner made us comfortable enough to enjoy the lunch.
Of course, the Pad Thai, the Tom Yum soup, and the shrimp were remarkable, but the most brilliant thing is their metal bowl with ice to cool down (naturally) from the Bangkok heat. The food is great, the attention to detail is even greater, and the music is fantastic.
If you are up for a walk, we highly suggest to go to Song Wat Road. This trendy neighborhood is one of the most hyped in Bangkok right now. Sitting on the side of Chinatown, we spend entire days through boutique shops, antique shophouses, bakeries and of course coffee shops. This is our latest guide to the best coffee places in Song Wat Road.
Where to stay in Bangkok near the Wat Pho
Bangkok is an incredible city, but it is so vast that it is easy to end up in the wrong district or far away from the main attractions. That’s why we wrote an extensive guide about Where to stay in Bangkok for first timers – Give it a read!
Below, you will find some quick suggestions on where to stay near Wat Pho Temple, which is always good in terms of transportation, nightlife and proximity to main attractions.
Here Hostel
One of the hidden gems in Bangkok backpackers district, the one you can just whisper about to avoid getting to the mass. It boasts an unbelievable 8.9 rating for dorms starting at just $10 per night (€10 | £8.5). BOOK HERE!
