Wat Pho is one of the most famous temples in Thailand, but the complex in which the temple is placed also houses stones which contain inscriptions of the ancient knowledge collected by the Thai people, including medicine, massage, history of the temple, and Buddhism. Wat Pho also housed the first public school in Thailand, and famous Thai massage originated here. This has earned Wat Pho the nickname “the first university of Thailand.” The complex still hosts  massage and Thai medicine schools today.

You will find hundreds of Buddha images throughout the huge complex, one of the largest such collections in Thailand. ST and I were shocked by the size and scope of the place and a little overwhelmed by the many things to see. The pictures here only show a portion of the structures, gardens, Buddha images and other sculptures.

Title quote: Wat Pho’s nickname