Location - Wat Pho is very close to the Grand Palace, the main entrance being off the Maha Rai - Thai Wang junction, about a 5 minute walk south of the Grand Palace. It can be accessed from Tha Tian pier via River Express boat. Click here for a Google Map location.
Wat Pho is the oldest temple in Bangkok, and also one of the most attractive. Because of its proximity to the Grand Palace and because it contains the magnificent Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho receives thousands of visitors every week, so it can get crowded. It also suffers from the same touts that hang around outside the Grand Palace, please see the article linked from the Grand Palace page.
The main attraction of Wat Pho is the massive gold-leaf-covered Reclining Buddha. The sheer size of it takes you aback when you first see it. However, Wat Pho is also the home of the world renowned Institute of Massage, the home of the traditional Thai massage.
The grounds of Wat Pho are also very spacious and once you get away from the main entrance area it can be a little more peaceful.
Please click here for the official Wat Pho website.
