Wat Pho
Wat Pho is one of Bangkok's oldest and most significant royal temples, best known for its extraordinary Reclining Buddha — a 46-metre-long statue covered in gold leaf that depicts the Buddha's passing into Nirvana. The sheer scale of the figure is difficult to grasp until standing before it, and the craftsmanship rewards close attention: the soles of the feet are decorated with 108 mother-of-pearl inlay panels depicting auspicious symbols. The wider temple compound extends well beyond the main hall, with ornate chedis, traditional Thai pavilions, and quiet courtyards where active worship continues throughout the day. The atmosphere reflects both genuine religious observance and cultural exploration. Pilgrims and visitors move through the grounds together, giving the site an authenticity that extends beyond a conventional tourist attraction. The complex is spacious enough to explore at an unhurried pace, with smaller shrines and architectural details throughout rewarding those who take the time to look. Entry costs 300 baht, payable in cash only — an ATM is available near one of the entrances. All visitors must cover their shoulders and knees, so dressing accordingly or carrying a wrap is advisable. The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:30 PM, and arriving early in the morning generally means smaller crowds and a calmer experience. Allow at least an hour to explore the site properly. Current practical information is available in English at watpho.com/en.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wat Pho, round out your day in Bangkok with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
The Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho is truly breathtaking. The moment you step inside the hall, the sheer size of the statue leaves you in awe. Stretching 46 meters long and covered in gold leaf, the Buddha radiates serenity and grandeur. One of the most beautiful details is the intricate mother-of-pearl inlay on the soles of the feet, depicting auspicious symbols. Walking along the length of the statue allows you to fully appreciate both its scale and craftsmanship. The atmosphere inside the temple is peaceful despite the number of visitors. The sound of coins being dropped into the metal bowls lining the wall adds a unique and meditative rhythm to the experience. Beyond the Reclining Buddha itself, the temple complex is stunning, with colorful chedis, traditional architecture, and beautifully maintained courtyards. If you’re visiting Bangkok, this is an essential cultural and spiritual landmark that should not be missed. Truly unforgettable.
Price 300 baht cash only. There is ATM at one of the entrances. Dress code for everyone shoulders and knees are covered. Gorgeous temple. Come early. The grounds of the temple are beautiful, take your time to wonder around. Don’t miss reclining Buddha, you will need to line up to go inside. There are a few food and souvenir stalls inside. Overall it was a very pleasant experience. The place is gorgeous!
Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) in Bangkok is a premier, first-class royal temple renowned for its massive, 46-meter-long gold-plated statue representing Buddha’s passing into Nirvana. Located near the Grand Palace, this historic site is famous for its 3-meter-high, mother-of-pearl inlaid feet. One of the oldest and very important temple in Bangkok, it is any tourist's must go to itinerary. Being a large area it is very confusing to find your way around and asking other tourists I found my way to the main hall of the reclining Buddha but no route directions are given or can get any help from the guards and that remains a big bummer for me in Thailand. Very well maintained heritage property and also a very auspicious place. Please be mindful of the fact that this is an active religious site hence befitting respectful behaviour must be observed all time while visiting the temple.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 8,272 reviews on Google.
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Wat Pho: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wat Pho worth visiting?
Wat Pho holds a 4.8★ rating from 8,272 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Bangkok.
What are the opening hours of Wat Pho?
Wat Pho is typically open 08:00-19:30 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit Wat Pho?
The best months to visit Bangkok are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December & January — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: April – May (peak heat).
Where is Wat Pho located?
Wat Pho is at 2 Thanon Sanam Chai, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand, in Bangkok. Getting around Bangkok: BTS Skytrain (most central areas); MRT Metro (underground).
Location Info
2 Thanon Sanam Chai, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, Thailand+66 83 057 7100www.watpho.com/enVisitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: April – May (peak heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
25°C – 34°C(77°F – 93°F)
Crowds
Peak: December & January
Getting there
Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) airports serve Bangkok with direct flights from most major cities.
Getting around
- •BTS Skytrain (most central areas)
- •MRT Metro (underground)
- •Airport Rail Link (ARL)
- •Chao Phraya Express Boat
- •Grab (ride-hailing app)
- •Metered taxis — always use the meter
Where to stay near Wat Pho
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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Nearby Places
Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan
Bangkok's iconic Buddhist temple complex, home to a giant reclining Buddha and centuries of Thai heritage.
Wat Arun Viewing Point
A riverside vantage point on Thanon Maha Rat offering striking views across the Chao Phraya to Wat Arun's iconic spires.
Royal Clock Tower
A replica of Siam's first clock tower, standing near Wat Pho as a tribute to King Rama IV's modernising vision.
The Grand Palace
A breathtaking 18th-century royal palace complex showcasing centuries of Thai history, gold-adorned architecture, and sacred temples.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
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The Big Buddha, Phuket
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Tha Phae Gate
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Where to stay near Wat Pho
Find hotels in Bangkok on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Agoda
Asia-focused selection
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: April – May (peak heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
25°C – 34°C(77°F – 93°F)
Crowds
Peak: December & January
Getting there
Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) airports serve Bangkok with direct flights from most major cities.
Getting around
- •BTS Skytrain (most central areas)
- •MRT Metro (underground)
- •Airport Rail Link (ARL)
- •Chao Phraya Express Boat
- •Grab (ride-hailing app)
- •Metered taxis — always use the meter