Indagare Tours: Wat Pho

This temple complex near the Grand Palace Bangkok contains more than 1,000 images of the Buddha and is most famous for the massive 46-meter-long (151-foot-long) reclining Buddha, who lies stretched out on his side, head in hand, like a movie star. Buddha’s reclining position represents his entering Nirvana- a state of complete release from all human confines and desires signifying the end of reincarnation – one of the most significant passing in Buddhist religion. Don’t miss the bottoms of the Buddha’s feet, which are stunningly decorated with mother-of-pearl images. Before the complex became a temple, Wat Pho was a center for traditional Thai medicine and massage, and throughout the buildings you can find plaques with medical inscriptions in antiquated dialect and small sculptures showcasing yoga positions. The Thai massage school at Wat Pho is highly acclaimed, and many of the therapists you will encounter in the top resorts trained there.

Indagare Tip: The complex is best experienced at night after the crowds have come and gone and the temples stand well lit in the silence of night. Contact Indagare’s Bookings Team for information about the night tour.