This is possibly the most interesting temple in Thailand
as it combines history, medical science and is a center for meditaion and
traditional massage training. Its official name is Wat Phrachetuphon Vimon
Mangkararam Ratchaworamahawihan, although it is commonly called Wat Po.
Founded during the 16th century, Wat Pho is most famous for the golden reclining
Buddha that measues 46 metres and has feet inlaid with mother-of pearl.
This is the main attraction that draws visitors to the temple. In more modern
times, Wat Pho has gained international recognition as a meditation centre
and for the traditional Thai massage that is both practiced and taught here.
Traditionally, temples were the schools as there was no formal education
system, with monks providing basic lesson in both spiritual and secular
subjects. King Rama III turned Wat Po into a major centre for learning in
botany, geography and history.
Bas reliefs around one of the main buildings depict the story of the Ramakian
which is the Thai adaption of the Indian Ramayana.
For those interested in traditional Thai medicine, there is a pavilion that
serves to both impart knowledge and provide treatment. The walls have marble
tablets describing basic anatomy and treatments. In the late afternoon,
traditional medicine practitioners are there to dispense herbal mixtures.
Nearby, there is a cloister where you can have a traditional Thai massage
for a very small payment.
** In 2008, the historic marble inscriptions in Wat Pho have been registered
with UNESCO’s Memory of the World (MOW) as MOW documentary heritage for
Asia and Pacific Region
How to get there : Bus routes 1, 3, 12, 25,44, 47, 53, 60, 82,
91, 501, 508
Open daily : 8.30 a.m. - 6.00 p.m.
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