Experts' Choice Award Wat Phra Chetuphon
What the experts agree on
Wat Pho's iconic 46-meter Reclining Buddha draws pilgrims and tourists alike, but this sprawling 20-acre temple near the Grand Palace is equally revered as Thailand's oldest wat and birthplace of traditional Thai massage and medicine.
“Bangkok’s largest and oldest wat (Buddhist temple) is home to the famous Reclining Buddha, the supine 46m long and 49-feet-high (15-meter-high) gold leaf-covered Buddha image with mother-of-pearl inlaid feet.”
– National Geographic
Condé Nast Traveler "Just south of the Grand Palace complex near the Tha Chang pier, this temple, which was also Thailand's first public education center, was originally built by King Rama I in the 18th century, and today covers 20 acres." Full review
Michelin Guide 3 Stars
"The oldest temple in Thailand, Wat Pho is also home to the country's most important school of medicine and traditional massage." Full review
i
Among the many fascinating sights in this complex, don't miss the frescoes in the ubosot.
Afar Magazine "If you only see one temple in Bangkok, make it Wat Pho: home of the largest reclining Buddha in Thailand." Full review
