Bangkok, Thailand Attractions

Wat Po

The Temple of Wat Po is actually much older than the city of Bangkok itself. Founded in the 17th century, it is the oldest temple in Bangkok. Its name, Wat Po, comes from its original name of WatPotaram. In 1801, the founder of Bangkok, King Rama I, enlarged the temple, installed many statues and artifacts, and renamed the temple WatPhraChetuphon. In 1832, the temple was further enlarged into a center for learning, making it Thailand’s first university. The expansion coincided with the construction of a large, reclining Buddha, which is absolutely stunning to visit.