Thailand's Statuary Treasure
Wat Pho Reclining Buddha Statue
One of the great large Buddhas found in Southeast Asia, the reclining Phra Buddhasaiyas (or Wat Pho Buddha) is located at the Wat Phra Chetuphon Vimolmangklararm Rajwaramahaviharn (often called Wat Pho by travelers) monastery in Bangkok, Thailand. The large complex is the reconstruction at the site of an ancient temple restored between 1688 and 1703. The site has been added to consistently over time. It is now the largest Wat in Thailand and includes stunning architecture as well as the gilded Buddha statue.
The Wat Pho Buddha statue is made of wood and covered with gold plating. The eyes and feet are inlaid with mother of pearl. Over 46m (151 ft.) long and 15m (49 ft.) high, this reclining Buddha is Thailand's largest and one of the most visited in the world. The house that holds the Buddha statue is just barely large enough leaving little room for the daily crush of tourists filing though. See our Buddha Head Fountain.
This statue depicts an amused Buddha in a state of repose, ascending into Nirvana (or enlightenment). Commissioned in 1832 by the devout King Rama III of Siam, the giant Buddha statue was meant to remind his people that Nirvana is attainable. Interested in Buddha? We have a Sandstone Buddha Wall Fountain (also suitable as a floor fountain) in our online store.
On the bottom of Buddha's feet, 108 auspicious characteristics of the true Buddha are carved into the mother of pearl inlay. These symbolic representations were made in both Indian and Chinese styles around Mandellas (or intricate wheels). The feet are depicted as stylized, in that all five toes are the same length.
The bot (or temple hall) lies on the north side of the 20 acre monastery grounds and is surrounded by nearly 400 bronze Buddhas. Also found in the same temple complex is a centuries-old school of traditional medicine and massage that is thought to be the origin of Thai-style massage. The first University in Thailand as well as many memorial towers are also located on the grounds.
Open for visitors every day, it is recommended you arrive at the vihara (or wihan) where the statue is located as early as possible. The Buddha statue is tended and administered by saffron-robed monks who live on the southern end of the compound. Visitors to the Wat Pho Buddha statue are required to remove their shoes and encouraged to buy small coins to place in bowls for the poor.
As part of just about any trip to Thailand, the Wat Pho Buddha commands the reverence and respect of his visitors.