We continued exploring the Wat Pho Temple complex and its main attraction - The Reclining Buddha.

The wat and the reclining Buddha (Phra Buddhasaiyas, Thai: พระพุทธไสยาสน์) were built by Rama III in 1832. The image of the reclining Buddha represents the entry of Buddha into Nirvana and the end of all reincarnations. The posture of the image is referred to as sihasaiyas, the posture of a sleeping or reclining lion. The figure is 15 m high and 46 m long, and it is one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand.

The figure has a brick core, which was modelled and shaped with plaster, then gilded. The right arm of the Buddha supports the head with tight curls, which rests on two box-pillows encrusted with glass mosaics. The soles of the feet of the Buddha are 3 m high and 4.5 m long, and inlaid with mother-of-pearl. They are each divided into 108 arranged panels, displaying the auspicious symbols by which Buddha can be identified, such as flowers, dancers, white elephants, tigers, and altar accessories. At the center of each foot is a circle representing a chakra or 'energy point'. There are 108 bronze bowls in the corridor representing the 108 auspicious characters of Buddha. Visitors may drop coins in these bowls as it is believed to bring good fortune, and it also helps the monks to maintain the wat.

Although the reclining Buddha is not a pilgrimage destination, it remains an object of popular piety. An annual celebration for the reclining Buddha is held around the time of the Siamese Songkran or New Year in April, which also helps raise funds for the upkeep of Wat Pho.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wat_Pho

From the website:https://www.thailandmagazine.com/wat-pho/?lang=en
In an immense space near the Wat Pho where the reclining Buddha (in Thai Phra Buddha Saiys) lies, there are 108 bronze bowls in which you can donate a coin. The 108 bowls represent the number of positive actions of Buddha with which he reached the transition to Nirwana (hereafter). These signs also appear on the soles of the reclining Buddha’s feet and are inlaid with mother-of-pearl. By the way, the feet are 3 meters wide and 5 meters high. Furthermore, the reclining Buddha is completely covered with gold leaf and the eyes with mother-of-pearl. A jewel that reclining Buddha!

The reclining Buddha and the Thai massage school are located in the northern part of the temple complex. In the southern part you will find various homes for monks, a school and a Buddhist monastery. In the complex are also several recipes kept of old and traditional Thai medicines. It is possible to hire a guide who will show you around and tell you interesting facts about the temple complex of Wat Pho. The costs are 400 baht for two persons.

Around the reclining Buddha there are several beautiful murals depicting the life of Buddha and his followers. On the entire Wat Pho complex there are more than 1,000 Buddha statues of which the reclining Buddha is only 1. With a bit of luck you will feel like you are in an oasis of peace compared to the temple where the reclining Buddha is located because there are still several spaces in between where countless Buddha statues can be admired. For example, look for the library, prominent gatekeepers and the meditation and prayer room with a meter high golden Buddha.

For additional images and narrative of Bangkok, Please see my previous posts:
https://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-768406-1.html#13795578
https://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-768562-1.html
https://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-768812-1.html#13804761

I hope you enjoy these!
Mark