Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho, Bangkok, Thailand

Wat Pho, also known as Wat Phra Chetuphon, is located directly behind the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and is a must-see for any first-time tourist to Bangkok. It is one of the city's greatest temple complexes and is famous for its 46-meter-long gold-leaf-covered reclining Buddha.

The Reclining Buddha is the main attraction for most visitors to Wat Pho. The dimensions are impressive: 15 meters tall, 46 meters long, and so huge that it feels crammed into the structure. The Buddha's feet are 5 meters long and finely embellished with mother-of-pearl depictions of the Buddha's auspicious laksanas (characteristics). The number 108 is significant because it refers to the 108 virtuous activities and symbols that helped Buddha achieve perfection.

You must remove your shoes to enter, and if you want some good luck, you should buy a bowl of coins at the entrance of the hall to drop in the 108 bronze bowls that line the length of the walls. Dropping little pennies in produces a beautiful ringing sound, and even if your wishes don't come true, the money helps the monks restore and preserve Wat Pho. Because this is a sacred figure, all visitors must dress appropriately (no exposed shoulders or skin above the knee).

Location: Maharat Road, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand