Wat Pho (the Temple of the Reclining Buddha), or Wat Phra Chetuphon, is located behind the splendid Temple of the Emerald Buddha. It's the largest temple in Bangkok and famed for its huge and majestic reclining Buddha measured 46 metres long and covered in gold leaf. The Buddha's feet are 3 metres long and exquisitely decorated in mother-of-pearl illustrations of auspicious 'laksanas' (characteristics) of the Buddha.
If you've never tried a traditional Thai massage, Wat Pho is a good place to start. It's quite different to most other forms of therapeutic massage and tends to be invigorating rather than relaxing, incorporating yoga style postures to relieve stress and improve blood circulation. Cost is around 120 baht for half an hour or 200 baht per hour.
Wat Pho also has good English speaking guides who will provide interesting information for around 200 - 400 baht, depending on how many people there are in your group and your negotiating skills. There are also a few astrologers and palm readers available for consultation. You can also receive a blessing from a monk for a small donation which helps to maintain the 'wat' (temple). The entrance fee is 20 baht.Open: Daily 08:00 - 17:00 (Massage available until
18:00)
Location: Maharat Road. Close to the river (about a
half mile south of the Grand
Palace), Old City
(Rattanakosin)
