Wat Pho Thai Traditional Massage School
Experience the birthplace of traditional Thai massage at Wat Pho, offering authentic, therapeutic treatments and learning opportunities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene atmosphere.
Wat Pho Thai Traditional Massage School
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the birthplace of traditional Thai massage at Wat Pho, offering authentic, therapeutic treatments and learning opportunities.
"Authentic, professional massage experience. The space is clean, and the staff is very skilled."
🎯 Authentic Experience Awaits
This is the original Thai massage school, focus is on skill, not luxury spa vibes.
💰 Affordable Prices
Get a professional, hour-long Thai massage for around 480-870 Baht.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Traditional Thai Massage
Wat Pho Traditional Medical and Massage School
Experience the original, therapeutic Thai massage techniques that have been taught here for centuries.
Reclining Buddha
Wat Pho Temple Complex
Marvel at the immense 46-meter-long golden Reclining Buddha statue, a breathtaking sight within the temple grounds.
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Thai Massage Courses
Wat Pho Traditional Medical and Massage School
Immerse yourself in learning authentic Thai massage techniques from the source.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Authenticity Over Luxury
Book Ahead for Courses
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Authentic Experience Awaits
This is the original Thai massage school, focus is on skill, not luxury spa vibes.
💰 Affordable Prices
Get a professional, hour-long Thai massage for around 480-870 Baht.
👕 Wear Provided Outfit
You'll be given a comfortable outfit to wear for your massage session.
⏳ No Long Waits (Usually)
Walk-ins are often accommodated, but booking ahead is wise for longer sessions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Authentic Experience Awaits
This is the original Thai massage school, focus is on skill, not luxury spa vibes.
💰 Affordable Prices
Get a professional, hour-long Thai massage for around 480-870 Baht.
👕 Wear Provided Outfit
You'll be given a comfortable outfit to wear for your massage session.
⏳ No Long Waits (Usually)
Walk-ins are often accommodated, but booking ahead is wise for longer sessions.
🧘♀️ Calm Common Rooms
Massages happen in shared rooms, but the atmosphere remains calm and quiet.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Wat Pho for its authentic, professional, and highly effective traditional Thai massages at very reasonable prices. While it's not a luxury spa, the skilled therapists and the historical significance of the location create a unique and memorable experience. Some find the shared massage rooms less private, but the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive for those seeking genuine Thai healing.
"Authentic, professional massage experience. The space is clean, and the staff is very skilled. It’s not a luxury spa, but a traditional, effective Thai massage. My therapist was great and clearly knew what she was doing. Highly recommended."
Ghada Jalal
"Had a fantastic hour long cannabis oil massage. Super relaxing and healing. The masseuse was friendly and firm. Got massaged next to a monk which added to the whole experience. Come get your massage at the most recognized massage centre in the whole of Thailand! Kap Khun Kráp 🙏🏻"
Nicolas Campaigne
"Went here me first full day in Bangkok and had one of the best massage of my life for 480 baht (1 hour Thai massage) they give you an outfit to wear then bring you into a room that's dimly lit with multiple massage tables space around the room with multiple sessions going on. Very authentic and professional experience from start to finish."
Antonio Whitty
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Pho is easily accessible by public transport in Bangkok. You can take the BTS Skytrain to Saphan Taksin station and then a Chao Phraya Express Boat to Tha Tien pier, which is right across from Wat Pho. Alternatively, taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available.
Yes, Wat Pho is centrally located and close to other major attractions like the Grand Palace and Wat Arun, making it easy to combine visits.
The temple complex is quite large, so wear comfortable shoes. Walking is the best way to explore the grounds and find the massage school.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You do not need a separate ticket for the massage school itself, as it's located within the Wat Pho temple complex. You will need to pay the entrance fee for Wat Pho to access the grounds.
The massage school generally operates from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to check their specific hours closer to your visit, but typically they are open daily.
While walk-ins are often possible for shorter massages, it's highly recommended to book longer sessions or specific courses in advance, especially during peak season.
Prices are very reasonable. A 1-hour traditional Thai massage typically costs around 480 Baht, while a 1.5-hour massage with balm might be around 870 Baht.
Yes, they offer traditional Thai massage, oil massages, foot reflexology, and more. They also offer comprehensive courses for those interested in learning.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect a professional, therapeutic massage in a clean, shared room. You'll change into provided attire and receive a firm, effective massage focused on stretching and pressure points.
Massages are typically performed in a common room with multiple tables, creating a shared but calm atmosphere. Privacy is maintained through the setup and the focus on the massage itself.
You will be provided with loose-fitting clothing to wear during your massage. You can leave your personal belongings in a locker provided.
Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for excellent service. A small tip is customary if you are satisfied with your massage.
It's always best to inform your therapist of any pre-existing conditions or areas of discomfort before the massage begins. They are trained to be attentive to your limits.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are many food options around Wat Pho. You can find street food stalls and local restaurants on Maha Rat Road, or try the Thai dessert cafe Hey Chom, located directly across from Wat Pho.
You can find a variety of Thai dishes, from Pad Thai to local curries and desserts. Many places offer scenic views of the Chao Phraya River.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in the common areas of the massage school, but it's respectful to avoid photographing other clients or therapists without their consent. The focus is on the massage experience.
The Reclining Buddha is a must-photograph. The temple grounds themselves, with intricate architecture and numerous Buddha images, offer many beautiful photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1There are also nearby dessert cafes like Hey Chom that offer a sweet treat, making it a pleasant stop for the whole family. Focus on exploring the temple's visual wonders and enjoying a quick, authentic massage for the adults.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your massage with a visit to the temple itself, which has a modest entrance fee. You can easily spend hours exploring the grounds without significant expense. For meals, street food and local eateries around the temple offer delicious and cheap Thai cuisine.
🧘♀️ Wellness Seekers
Consider enrolling in one of the short courses if you're interested in learning the techniques yourself. This offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience from the originators of this ancient practice. The focus on holistic well-being makes it a perfect addition to any wellness-focused itinerary.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Traditional Thai Massage
Unlike Western massages, Thai massage is performed on a floor mat with the recipient fully clothed in comfortable attire. Therapists use their thumbs, palms, elbows, knees, and feet to apply pressure and guide the body through a series of stretches, often described as 'lazy yoga.' This holistic approach aims to relieve muscle tension, improve flexibility, and boost circulation.
The Wat Pho Traditional Medical and Massage School continues this legacy, offering authentic treatments and training. Many therapists practicing worldwide have received their foundational training here, attesting to its status as the 'original' school.
+1Learning at the Source: Wat Pho Massage Courses
Students praise the school for its dedicated teachers and the immersive learning environment. The curriculum focuses on both theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to practice authentic Thai massage. Many former students express a strong desire to return for further studies, highlighting the quality of education and the positive experience.
This is an unparalleled opportunity to learn from the masters at the very institution that codified and popularized this ancient healing art. It's an investment for aspiring massage therapists or anyone passionate about traditional wellness practices.
Beyond the Massage: Exploring Wat Pho Temple
Beyond the iconic Buddha, the temple grounds are adorned with countless other Buddha images, intricate murals, and beautiful chedis (stupas). It's a place of serene beauty and deep historical significance, often described as a city within a city. Visitors can wander through courtyards, admire the architecture, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
Wat Pho also houses a significant collection of Thai medical texts and artifacts, reinforcing its historical role as a center for traditional medicine and education. It's a perfect complement to a massage session, offering a deeper understanding of the cultural context from which these healing practices emerged.
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