If you’re planning a trip to Bangkok, Wat Pho should definitely be on your list. It’s home to the world-famous Reclining Buddha, peaceful temple grounds, and the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.
Just a short walk from the Grand Palace, Wat Pho is one of the oldest and largest temples in Thailand.
This guide gives you everything you need to know before you go — including opening hours, tickets, how to get there, what to wear, what to see, and even what’s nearby like Wat Arun and the Grand Palace.
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# Bangkok: Wat Pho and Wat Arun Guided Walking Tour
# Bangkok: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun Guided TourDon’t miss out — book your Wat Pho tour now for an unforgettable mix of temple exploration, Thai massage, riverside views, and cultural discovery!
What is Wat Pho?
Wat Pho (full name: Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan) is one of Bangkok’s most iconic temples — and one of its oldest.
It’s best known for the massive Reclining Buddha statue that measures 46 meters (151 feet) long and sparkles with gold leaf.
His feet alone are five meters wide and beautifully inlaid with mother-of-pearl patterns that represent lucky symbols.
Fun fact: According to Wikipedia Wat Pho is actually older than the city of Bangkok. It was renovated and expanded in the late 1700s by King Rama I, just after Bangkok was declared Thailand’s capital in 1782.
But it’s not just the Buddha that makes this place special.
Wat Pho is also considered Thailand’s first public university, thanks to King Rama III, who had knowledge carved into stone tablets all around the complex covering topics like Thai medicine, yoga postures, and astrology. Because of these ancient inscriptions, it’s been listed as a UNESCO Memory of the World.
And if you’ve ever had a Thai massage? Wat Pho is where it all began. The temple is home to the most respected Thai massage school in the country, where you can book a massage right inside the temple grounds.
Visitors also love the serene vibe here. TripAdvisor reviewers often mention how Wat Pho feels “less rushed” and “more relaxed,” especially in the early morning.
There are over 1,000 Buddha images, peaceful gardens, and quiet corners for reflection making it a calm alternative to the more crowded Grand Palace nearby.
Why you should visit Wat Pho
- To see one of the world’s largest reclining Buddhas
- To experience real Thai massage at its birthplace
- To wander through a spiritual, art-filled, peaceful complex in the heart of Bangkok
- To learn about Thai medicine, history, and architecture — all in one place
How to book your online tickets
The best and easiest way to visit Wat Pho is by booking an online tour in advance. Walk-in tickets are available at the temple, but guided tours offer better value and more convenience.
Most tours include:
- Entry ticket/Admission fee to Wat Pho
- Add-on visits to Wat Arun or the Grand Palace
- Licensed English-speaking guide
- Hotel pickup or central meeting point
- Ferry ride or tuk-tuk (for combo tours)
- Small group or private experience
Benefits of booking your tour in advance
- Hassle-free hotel pickup or meet-up near the pier
- Entry fees often included — no cash confusion at the gate
- Insightful guided experience through Bangkok’s top temples
- Instant booking confirmation on your phone
- Options for evening tours, street food add-ons, or private groups
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
Ticket & tour options to Wat Pho
Bangkok: Wat Pho and Wat Arun Guided Walking Tour
- Duration: 3 hours (multiple starting times available)
- Visit two of Bangkok’s most iconic temples: Wat Pho, home to the 46-meter-long Reclining Buddha, and Wat Arun, the riverside temple with a towering spire inlaid with colorful mosaics
- Enjoy a guided walking tour with expert commentary on Thai history, architecture, and spiritual traditions
- Tour includes carbon offset credits and glass-bottled water, making it an environmentally conscious experience
- Includes a refreshing coconut water during the walk
- Entry tickets are not included – pay on-site: Wat Pho (฿300), Wat Arun (฿200)
- Tour is conducted in English by a local guide certified by GSTC standards
- Starting point: Tha Tian Pier (a few minutes from Grand Palace, exact time emailed prior)
- Best for travelers looking for a short, immersive temple experience with great photo opportunities and cultural depth
- Not suitable for: Pregnant travelers, those with mobility issues or heart conditions
- Price: From ฿582 (approx. $18)
Bangkok: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun Guided Tour
- Duration: 5 hours (multiple start times available)
- Explore Bangkok’s top three cultural landmarks: the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun — all in one guided tour
- Begin at the Grand Palace, including entry to Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), the most sacred temple in Thailand
- Visit Wat Pho to see the 46-meter-long Reclining Buddha and learn about the roots of traditional Thai massage
- Cross the Chao Phraya River by boat to Wat Arun, known for its stunning porcelain tower and sweeping river views
- Tour led by an English-speaking guide, in a small group limited to 10 people for a more personal experience
- Includes all entry fees, bottled water, and a river boat ride
- Meeting point: Golden Place (Tha Chang Pier Branch); tour ends at Tha Tian Pier
- Best for travelers short on time who want to see Bangkok’s most famous temples in one go
- Not suitable for: Wheelchair users; strict dress code applies (no shorts, skirts above the knee, or sleeveless tops)
- Price: From ฿750 (approx. $23), includes all entrance tickets and transport
Bangkok: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun Private Tour
- Duration: 5 hours (flexible start times available)
- Explore Bangkok’s most iconic spiritual sites on this fully guided, private half-day tour
- Visit the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) — Thailand’s most sacred Buddhist shrine
- Walk through Tha Thien Market, a bustling spot for dried seafood and local goods
- Take a scenic shuttle boat across the Chao Phraya River to reach Wat Arun, the stunning riverside temple with a towering prang
- Choose to add Wat Pho to your itinerary and admire the 46-meter-long Reclining Buddha, a UNESCO-recognized landmark
- Travel in comfort with round-trip hotel transfers, a private guide, cold towels, bottled water, and even lunch included
- Tour is led by an English-speaking local guide and fully private — perfect for families, couples, or small groups
- Best for: Travelers seeking a flexible, all-inclusive temple tour with personal attention and optional add-ons
- Not allowed: Shorts, sleeveless shirts, or high heels (strict temple dress code applies)
- Price: From ฿4450 (approx. $138), varies based on selected options (Wat Pho/Wat Arun)
Bangkok: Evening Tour with Wat Arun, Wat Pho & Tuk Tuk Ride
Duration: 4 hours (evening tour, starts around 4:30 PM)
- Explore Bangkok after dark and enjoy the city without the heat or daytime crowds
- Visit Wat Pho and Wat Arun with a knowledgeable English- or Spanish-speaking guide
- Take a ferry ride across the Chao Phraya River, then hop on a tuk-tuk to Chinatown for free time and street food exploration
- Enjoy photo ops at the Grand Palace from the outside and learn about Rattanakosin Island’s rich history
- Tour includes Wat Pho entry (฿300) and Wat Arun entry (฿200)
- Small group experience with no more than 9 people, ensuring personal attention
- Eco-friendly tour with carbon offset credits and water served in glass bottles
- Meeting point: Tha Tian Pier; exact time and details emailed the day before
- Best for: Travelers looking to experience Bangkok’s top temples and vibrant night vibes all in one compact, low-impact tour
- Price: From ฿1,250 (approx. US$35), includes all entries and transport; excludes food and drinks
Opening Hours of Wat Pho
- Daily Opening: 8 am to 7:30 pm
- Last Admission: Around 6:30 pm
- Thai Massage School Hours: Until approximately 7:30 pm
(The massage pavilion runs later than the main temple)
Best Times to Visit Wat Pho
- Early morning (8 am to 10 am):
Cooler weather, softer light for photos, and fewer crowds. - Late afternoon (4 am to 6 pm):
Mellow atmosphere, golden light, and slightly fewer tourists
Schedules of Upcoming Royal & Buddhist Ceremonies at Wat Pho
Here’s are the special events which you can expect next year at Wat Pho:
- 5th Bangkok Art Biennale
Dates: October 2025 to February 2026
Theme: Fragile Equilibrium: Art in an Age of Uncertainty
Contemporary art installations by Thai & international artists around temple grounds.
- Makha Bucha Day
Date: 22 February 2026 (Wednesday)
A full-moon Buddhist holiday featuring candlelit veneration and chanting ceremonies at temples. Visitors may also witness offerings, robe-giving, and rituals marking Buddhist milestones.
- Songkran (Thai New Year)
Dates: 13 to 15 April 2026
Expect traditional water blessings of Buddha statues, merit-making rituals, and widespread celebration around Bangkok, including at Wat Pho
- Visakha Bucha Day
Date: 1 May 2026 (Friday)
This full moon day of May marks Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and passing (in the lunar calendar). Expect evening candle processions and prayers.
- Asanha Bucha & Buddhist Lent Day
Dates: 29 to 30 July 2026
Traditional ceremonies like Dhamma sermons and offerings to monks as part of Buddhist observance.
Where is Wat Pho located?
Wat Pho is located in the Rattanakosin district of Old Bangkok, just a few meters from the Grand Palace and across the river from Wat Arun.
Address: 2 Sanam Chai Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Travel Time from Popular Areas
- From Grand Palace: 5-minute walk (350 meters)
- From Khao San Road: ~2 km / 10 mins by tuk-tuk
- From Siam area: ~6 to 7 km / 20 to 30 mins by taxi
Best ways to reach Wat Pho
- BTS + Ferry
- Take the Silom Line to Saphan Taksin Station (S6)
- Board the Chao Phraya Express Boat to Tha Tien Pier
- Walk 3 minutes to the Wat Pho entrance
- Taxi or Tuk-Tuk is a quick and convenient option from central Bangkok areas like Siam, Silom, and Sukhumvit.
- If you’re already at the Grand Palace or Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho is just a short walk away.
- Many private tours include Wat Pho along with the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and local markets. These include a guide, round-trip transport and entry tickets.
How to get to Wat Pho from Bangkok
| Mode | Cost (฿) | Time | Convenience |
| BTS + Ferry | ~60 to 80 ฿ | ~30 to 40 mins | Scenic & budget-friendly; moderate walking |
| Tuk-tuk | ~150 to 250 ฿ (negotiable) | ~15 to 25 mins | Quick but must bargain or agree on price |
| Taxi (metered) | ~120 to 200 ฿ | ~20 to 30 mins | Comfortable; traffic-dependent |
| Walk (from Grand Palace) | Free | 5 mins (350 m) | Very easy if you’re already nearby |
| Private Tour Pickup | Included in tour price | Varies | Hassle-free; includes tickets + guide |
Travel Tips:
- Start early (before 9 am) to beat the heat and avoid crowds.
- If using the BTS + ferry, the Tha Tien Pier is the closest drop-off.
- Taxis are convenient, but always insist on the meter or pre-agree on fare to avoid overpaying.
Dress Code for Wat Pho
Wat Pho is an active Buddhist temple, so a modest dress code is strictly enforced.
What to wear at Wat Pho
- Clothing that covers shoulders and knees
- Long pants or skirts (below the knees)
- Tops with sleeves (no tank tops or crop tops)
- Closed-toe shoes or sandals with a strap are preferred
What not to wear at Wat Pho
- Shorts or short skirts
- Sleeveless tops or low-cut shirts
- See-through or tight-fitting clothing
- Ripped jeans or beachwear
Tip: If you’re not dressed appropriately, you may be asked to rent or buy a sarong at the entrance. To avoid delays, carry a scarf or shawl in your bag.
Massage at Wat Pho
Wat Pho is home to Thailand’s oldest massage school, where you can get an authentic Thai massage right on-site. It’s one of the most highly rated massage experiences in Bangkok for quality and tradition.
- Services include Thai massage, foot massage, and herbal massage
- Prices range from ฿260 to ฿420, depending on type and duration
- No appointment needed – walk-in only
- Open daily from 9 am to 6 pm
- Expect a short wait during peak hours (late mornings and early afternoons)
Nearby Attractions to Combine with Wat Pho
Many travelers visiting Wat Pho also explore nearby historical and cultural sites — most of which are just a short walk or ferry ride away.
If you’re already in the Old City, combining these landmarks can turn your Wat Pho visit into a complete Bangkok day tour filled with temples, river views, street food, and cultural surprises.
Here are the top nearby attractions to add to your itinerary:
Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew
One of Bangkok’s most important landmarks, featuring royal halls, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and stunning architecture.
- Time Needed: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Distance from Wat Pho: ~5-minute walk
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
A majestic temple across the river, famous for its tall porcelain spire and riverside views — especially beautiful at sunset.
- Time Needed: 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Distance from Wat Pho: ~10-minute ferry ride from Tha Tien Pier
Museum Siam
A modern, interactive museum exploring Thai identity through fun exhibits and multimedia displays. Great for kids and culture lovers.
- Time Needed: 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Distance from Wat Pho: ~5-minute walk
Tha Maharaj
A relaxed riverside spot with cafés, local eateries, and boutique shops — ideal for a quick break or scenic meal.
- Time Needed: 30 to 45 minutes
- Distance from Wat Pho: ~10-minute walk
Chinatown (Yaowarat Road)
A vibrant, neon-lit neighborhood filled with street food, gold shops, and local markets. Best experienced in the evening.
- Time Needed: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Distance from Wat Pho: ~10 to 15 minutes by tuk-tuk
Combine Wat Pho with Wat Arun and the Grand Palace in one day to cover Bangkok’s top three heritage attractions in the most popular Bangkok Highlights City Tour
Important Visitor Tips to Know Before You Go to Wat Pho
- Arrive early (8 am to 9 am) for fewer crowds, cooler weather, and better photo opportunities.
- Bring cash in small bills (฿100 or ฿500) for entry, drinks, or sarong rental if needed.
- Dress modestly. No shorts, sleeveless tops, or short skirts. Carry a scarf or sarong for coverage.
- Wear easy-to-remove shoes. You must take them off before entering temple halls.
- Photography is allowed, but avoid flash and be respectful of worshippers and monks.
- Use sunscreen, wear a hat, and carry a bottle of water. The temple grounds are mostly outdoors.
- Toilets are available but may be basic. Carry tissues and hand sanitizer just in case.
- Use Google Translate or book a guided tour to get more out of your visit.
- Plan your visit with Wat Arun or the Grand Palace nearby. All three can be done in one trip.
- Don’t miss the Thai massage pavilion inside Wat Pho. It’s one of the oldest schools in Thailand.
Temple Etiquette to Keep in Mind
- Speak softly and move calmly inside temple grounds
- Always remove shoes before entering temple halls
- Do not point your feet at Buddha statues
- Avoid touching monks or sacred objects
- Step over door thresholds, not on them
Frequently Asked Questions about Wat Pho
Here are some frequently asked questions about Wat Pho:
How long does it take to visit Wat Pho?
Most visitors spend 1 to 1.5 hours exploring Wat Pho. If you plan to take photos, rest in the courtyards, or get a massage, budget up to 2 hours.
Can I buy entry tickets at the temple gate?
Yes, entry tickets to Wat Pho can be bought directly at the gate for ฿300 per person. However, combo tours or online tickets offer better value and convenience.
Is photography allowed inside the Reclining Buddha hall?
Yes, photography is allowed without flash. However, tripods and large camera gear are discouraged inside the chapel. Always remain respectful of those praying.
What’s included in the entry ticket?
The ฿300 entry ticket includes access to the Reclining Buddha hall, the main courtyard, the massage pavilion area, and several smaller halls and chedis. It also includes a small bottle of water upon entry.
Are massages available every day?
Yes, the Wat Pho Thai Massage School operates daily from around 9am to 6pm. Massages are available on a walk-in basis, and it’s best to go early as it can get busy by midday.
Is there a dress code for men too?
Yes. Men must also cover their shoulders and knees. T-shirts and long pants are recommended. Sleeveless shirts or tank tops are not allowed.
Is Wat Pho open during Thai public holidays?
Yes, Wat Pho is open every day, including public holidays and Buddhist festivals. It may be more crowded during these times, but also more festive.
Is it okay to visit Wat Pho during rain?
Yes, but carry an umbrella or raincoat. The temple complex is mostly outdoors, with open courtyards and walkways that can get slippery in rain. Some halls are covered and provide shelter.
Key Takeaways
- Wat Pho is one of Bangkok’s most historic temples and home to the Reclining Buddha
- Entry is ฿300, and guided tours offer better value and context
- Combine your visit with Wat Arun and the Grand Palace for a full cultural day
- Dress modestly and arrive early for the best experience
- Thai massages, rich artwork, and peaceful courtyards make it more than just a photo spot
Book tickets or tours online for ease, value, and instant confirmation
