Temple of the Reclining Buddha

วัดโพธิ์

Home to a massive 46-meter-long gilded Reclining Buddha statue, this ancient temple is one of Thailand's oldest and largest. Visitors come to marvel at the colossal Buddha, receive traditional Thai massages, and explore one of Bangkok's most atmospheric spiritual sites.

Things to do

• Marvel at the Reclining Buddha — Stand before the 46-meter-long gilded statue depicting Buddha entering Nirvana, one of Thailand's most iconic religious artworks housed in the main ordination hall.
• Receive Traditional Thai Massage — Book a session at the temple's massage school where trained therapists offer authentic Nuad Boran treatments in a serene courtyard setting.
• Explore the Four Meditation Halls — Visit the surrounding chapels dedicated to different aspects of Buddhist practice and featuring intricate murals and smaller Buddha statues.
• Walk Through the Cloisters — Stroll the covered walkways lined with 394 gilded Buddha statues in various meditation poses, each representing different moments of enlightenment.
• Attend Evening Chanting Ceremony — Join monks for the melodic evening prayers in the main hall, a deeply spiritual experience open to respectful visitors.
• Study at the Amulet Market — Browse the small vendor stalls outside the temple selling Buddhist amulets, talismans, and religious souvenirs favored by Thai devotees.

Food to try

• Khao Tom with Temple Herbs — Enjoy this mild rice porridge topped with fresh herbs and simple condiments, commonly served to monks and visitors as a light, digestive meal.
• Mango Sticky Rice — Try this beloved Thai dessert of glutinous rice with ripe mango and coconut cream, sold by vendors near the temple entrance.
• Satay Skewers — Purchase grilled meat or vegetable satay with peanut sauce from street vendors outside the temple, a popular snack among worshippers.
• Fresh Coconut Water — Drink coconut water directly from young green coconuts sold by vendors, a refreshing and natural beverage perfect for the tropical heat.
• Pad Thai from Temple Vendors — Sample this iconic stir-fried rice noodle dish prepared by vendors in the temple courtyard, often made with vegetarian options for Buddhist visitors.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Respectfully — Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, and remove shoes before entering the main hall where the Reclining Buddha resides.
• Make Merit Through Donations — Participate in the Thai Buddhist custom of giving alms or making small donations to monks and temple upkeep, considered an important spiritual practice.
• Observe Proper Buddha Etiquette — Never point your feet toward any Buddha statue or turn your back to one, as this is considered deeply disrespectful in Thai Buddhist culture.
• Visit Early Morning for Authentic Experience — Arrive before 9 AM to see monks performing their morning rituals and to experience the temple with fewer tourists and greater spiritual atmosphere.