Bangkok’s Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho): Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour

Things to do on the Tour Include:

• Temple of the Reclining Buddha

  Wat Pho, or the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is best known for the immense Buddha statue for which it is named. The statue, which depicts the Buddha at the moment of his death and ascension to nirvana, is about 150 feet long and 50 feet high, absolutely dominating the room. As you admire the impressive sculpture, you'll learn all about the profound significance of this depiction, as well as the importance of Buddhism within Thailand.

• Suan Misakawan

  This raised garden is most famous for the Bodhi tree. It is under a Bodhi tree that Buddha sat and meditated as he awaited enlightenment.

• The Giants of Wat Pho

  These giant statues are the Yakshas, guardians of Wat Pho. There's a powerful mythology behind these statues, which you'll hear about before proceeding.

• Phra Mondop

  This elaborate structure is beautiful on the outside but contains something truly special inside: A collection of the earliest Buddhist teachings, known as the Tripitaka. Beyond the mondrop are three pavilions featuring murals which depict the epic of Ramayana, which you can learn more about as you admire the artwork.

• Sala Karnparien

  This is one of the oldest structures in the compound. The Ayuthaya architectural style really stands out among all the newer buildings.

• Belfry

  This belfry was built by King Rama III. Like many built in the traditions of Buddhism, it symbolizes the awakening of the Noble Truth.

• Royal Chedi

  These four eye-catching pagodas are the tallest in the entire compound. They stand at 137 feet, and feature an unusual architectural style you're not likely to find elsewhere. They represent the reign of the first four Chakri kings.

• West Entrance

  At this entrance to the pagodas, you'll find an image of the Buddha in a meditative pose, sheltered by a multi-headed snake. This depiction represents the Buddha just after he achieved enlightenment.

• Phra Rabiang

  Phra Rabiang is a cloister which is packed with important artwork. This cloister contains almost 400 images of the Buddha which were almost lost to time and conflict.

• Phra Prang

  These four distinctive towers are decorated with marble, gold, and glass. They make for a truly beautiful sight, especially early in the morning and late in the afternoon.

• South Entrance

  This entrance features a statue of the Buddha delivering a sermon. It is the second of four depictions of the Buddha found at each of the cardinal directions of the pagoda.

• Phra Ubosot

  Phra Ubosot is the ordination hall, the most sacred structure in Wat Pho. An impressive Buddha statue made from gold-copper alloy looks across the hall, and subtle symbols appear on almost every surface. As you explore the hall, you'll learn how to understand the meaning behind these symbols.

• East Entrance

  The East Entrance features a statue of the Buddha meditating under a Bodhi tree. This is the tree under which the Buddha sought enlightenment, and is a hugely important symbol within the Buddhist religion.

• Rock Gardens

  As you explore the temple, you'll notice numerous rock gardens, including Khao Mor, meaning Model Hill. These gardens were created by King Rama III and contain not just intricate rock formations but also beautiful plants throughout.

• L-shaped Viharn

  This unusual structure serves a very important purpose: It houses intricate galleries filled with historically significant artwork. Unfortunately, you'll have to admire it from the outside, as it is not open to the public.

• North Entrance

  The North Entrance is the final entrance you'll visit during your journey. This one depicts the Buddha alongside an elephant and a monkey, representing a time in the Buddha's life when he wandered alone in the wilderness. Your tour concludes here, having taken you through all the essential sites of Wat Pho.