Temple of the Reclining Buddha Wat Pho
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho, officially known as Wat Phra Chetuphon Vimolmangklararm, is one of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok. Its history dates back to the era of the ancient capital Ayutthaya (14th–18th centuries), but it acquired its modern appearance during the reign of King Rama I (1782–1809), who significantly expanded the complex.
The temple became Thailand`s first public education center, where medicine, astronomy, and literature were taught. In 2008, UNESCO recognized the traditional Thai massage practiced at Wat Pho as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The Main Sacred Object: The Reclining Buddha
• Length of the statue: 46 meters
• Height: 15 meters
Pose: "Parinirvana" – The Buddha lies on his right side, resting on his arm, at the moment of entering final Nirvana (Parinirvana) after death.
Symbolism of the Buddha`s Pose
• The right hand supports the head – a symbol of wisdom and peace.
• The left hand is extended along the body – a sign of renunciation of worldly desires.
• The feet are adorned with mother-of-pearl inlay depicting 108 auspicious symbols (marks of the Buddha).
Why Are There So Many Stupas (Chedis) on the Temple Grounds?
The Wat Pho complex houses 71 stupas, including:
• 4 large chedis dedicated to the first kings of the Chakri dynasty (Rama I, Rama II, Rama III, Rama IV).
• Smaller stupas containing the ashes of noble individuals.
• Bell-shaped stupas – symbols of enlightenment and the immortality of the soul.
Other Important Buddha Sculptures
The temple galleries contain 394 gilded Buddha images, many of which depict him in the meditation pose (Dhyana Mudra). These statues were brought from the ruined temples of Ayutthaya, Thailand`s ancient capital.
• In some niches, the Buddha is shown holding an alms bowl – a symbol of renunciation of material wealth.
• One hall features a sculpture of the Buddha seated under the protection of the Naga serpent, referencing the legend of his meditation during a rainstorm.
Religious Significance of Wat Pho temple
• Center of traditional medicine and massage – Monks have studied acupuncture and healing practices here for centuries.
• Pilgrimage site – Thais believe that offerings to the Reclining Buddha bring good luck and healing.
• Repository of ancient knowledge – The walls preserve stone tablets with medical treatises.
Special Ritual: Visitors can drop 108 coins into bronze bowls near the statue – this symbolizes liberation from 108 worldly sufferings.
Wat Pho is not just a temple with a giant Reclining Buddha but a living museum of Thai culture. Here, history, religion, and healing traditions intertwine, making it one of Thailand`s most spiritually significant sites.
