Wat Pho, Bangkok

Wat Pho is home to an enormous golden reclining Buddha.  It is about 150 feet long and is Thailand’s longest reclining Buddha.  The reclining Buddha is a less common representation of Buddha.  It depicts his death, passing into nirvana and being freed from the cycle of reincarnation.  The soles of the Buddha’s feet are adorned with mother-of-pearl inlay and are beautiful on their own.

The grounds are equally awe-inspiring with stunning temples and the famous Phra Ubosot depicting the Buddha enthroned.  There are over a thousands Buddha statues in the complex.

The complex is crowded, so go early.  Bare shoulders, arms and legs are not allowed.  Shoes must be removed before entering a temple.  Buddhism is the living religion of Thailand.  Expect to see people in prayer and be respectful.

There are Buddhas in every pose

The ornamentation is hand-laid ceramic tiles giving a 3-D effect