Wat Phra Chetuphon (Wat Pho)

Wat Pho, or the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is a short ten-minute walk from the Grand Palace, and just behind the temple of the emerald buddha is likely a first stop on your list of sights to see in Thailand. The 50-foot long gold covered Reclining Buddha is certainly a spectacle unlike any you have seen before. The giant statue represents Buddha during his last illness, right before he entered post-death nirvana. Wat Pho is also historically significant as the sight of the first university in Thailand and the birthplace of Thai massage. In case you were curious, the temple’s official Thai name is Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan. We’re thankful there’s no pronunciation test. Just like the Grand Palace, this site is best seen in the early part of the day before the Thai sun tries to scorch you. Appropropriate dress is required.