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| Wat Pho Or Wat Phra Chetuphon |
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History
Thailand, and indeed Bangkok is known for its beautiful temples. In Bangkok Wat Phra Chetuphonor the Wat Pho as it is popularly known, is the home of the dazzling Reclining Buddha. The Wat Pho is set in a large area of about 20 acres, and besides the Reclining Buddha it houses over a thousand Buddha images all intricately carved and adorned. Located in the district of Phra Nakhom in Bangok, very close to the Grand Palace, the Wat Pho was built in the 17th century by King Rama 1 and subsequently extended and restored by King Rama III during his reign between 1824-51. It was at this time the famed Reclining Buddha was installed to commemorate the attaining of nirvana by Gautam Buddha.
People come from far and near to pay obeisance to the Reclining Buddha which is an impressive 46 metres long and 15 metres high. The statue is totally plated in gold and is inlaid with mother of pearl on its eyes and feet. The carvings on the feet of the statue depict the 108 characteristics of the Buddha.The shining statue is a very impressive sight to behold and epitomizes peace and serenity.
The Wat Pho Temple also has in its precincts a school of Thai medicine and Thai massage.
Getting there
The Wat Pho is located on Maharat Road in the Old City of Rattanakosin, and since the area does not fall on the Skytrain route, it would be best to take a taxi to get here.
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Best time to visit
The best time to visit any temple is early in the morning and the Wat Pho is no exception. This is the time when there are not many people around and the peacefulness and serenity of the temple seeps through making your experience truly spiritual.
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Trivia
On Sundays, students are taught traditional Thai dance and music, so if you are interested this would be a good day to visit the temple.
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Timing
The temple is open for visitors 8:00 am to 5:00 pm daily. The entrance fee is Baht 50 per person. Guides can be hired for a small fee, but this is not necessary if you just want to explore the temple on your own.
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Travel Tools
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