Wat Pho

Wat Pho is a clear favourite among tourists, for good reason. The temple’s grounds are expansive, with plenty of room for wandering peacefully and contemplating life. Over 1,000 images of Buddha are displayed throughout, alongside more than 90 chedis—also called stupas. A wall divides two distinct areas, the northern of which houses the famous reclining Buddha. People come from all over the world to bask in its immense glory: 46 metres long and 15 metres high, this giant figure is breathtaking to see in person. It’s so big that you’ll even struggle to fit the entire Buddha into a single photograph!

Compared to Bangkok’s other popular temples; Wat Pho offers a more serene experience. In particular, it tends to be less hectic than its nearby counterpart Wat Phra Kaew. However, it’s still worth your while to get their early to avoid bumping into people while taking in the sights. If you want to relax more, try a Thai massage by a trained professional at the temple. Wat Pho is known for its strong educational component, specializing in medicine and massage. Upon entering, visitors will be asked to remove their shoes; a modest fee of 100 THB (3 USD) grants you entrance.