Wat Po in Bangkok after dark

Posted by paul on February 18th, 2009 filed in Bangkok, Culture & customs, Top attractions

Bangkok’s majestic ancient Buddhist temple is even more enticing on the illuminated evening tours continuing through March. A night visit to this World Heritage Site offers entire new vistas. Every evening the famous site of popular massages and the Reclining Buddha is hosting a small-scale sound-and-light festival that wonderfully illustrates its “nine Wonders”.

Two-hour tours are offered by an English speaking guide explaining the temple’s origins during the Ayutthaya era. The nightly shows use light effects to dramatically re-create the brilliant architecture of the principal chapel, old stupas and numerous statues of the Lord Buddha.

To see the Reclining Buddha, the tour begins at Viharn Phranorn. This is considered Thailand’s most significant and wonderful piece of religious fine art, and no other Buddha’s image depicted reaching nirvana comes close. A short stroll away is the position of the Satellite Pavilions, where the art of traditional massage is explained by murals featuring elaborate inscriptions. Bangkok Sight Seeing Guide

The tour’s highlight is the Legend of Songkran, which story was recorded by King Rama III on the porticos’ inner walls. The celebrated Wat Pho giants are outside Phra Monbod, and next you’ll arrive at Sala Kara Parien, featuring in the Tourist Authority’s “Unseen Thailand” campaign.

The final stop is at the contoured Hermit Mount that was constructed by King Rama I. There are 25 hermits striking 24 yogic positions, showing how to achieve health and balance.

“The 9 Wonders of Wat Pho” will take place until April 6, with each evening between 18:00 and 21:00 six tours. Tours are limited to 50 participants. Tours conducted in English begin at 19:00 and 20:30. The fee for Thai people is 50 baht and 200 baht for foreigners. Booking tickets in advance is recommended. Visit website