Wat Pho Temple

On April 4, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the iconic Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan, popularly known as Wat Pho temple in Bangkok, Thailand, a site renowned for its architectural beauty and the majestic 46-metre-long Reclining Buddha statue.

• He was accompanied by Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, marking a significant diplomatic and cultural gesture.

Key Highlights

• During the visit, Modi paid homage to the Reclining Buddha and offered Sanghadana—a traditional Buddhist offering—to senior monks at the temple, underscoring the shared spiritual and cultural ties between India and Thailand.

• Wat Pho, located in Bangkok’s historic old town along the Chao Phraya River, is one of the city’s oldest and largest temples, sprawling across 20 acres.

• Originally built in the 16th century during the reign of King Rama I, the temple was once known as Wat Photaram. It served not only as a spiritual center but also as an educational institution, particularly in the fields of traditional Thai medicine and massage.

• Today, Wat Pho stands as a symbol of Thailand’s rich artistic and spiritual heritage, continuing to draw visitors and devotees from around the world who seek inspiration from the teachings of Lord Buddha.