Wat Arun (also called the Temple of Dawn) is one of Bangkok’s many iconic Buddhist temples. It stands on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, directly across from the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. A convenient passenger ferry service is constantly moving people back and forth across the river at this point, which we used after our Wat Pho explorations. The ferry ride offers excellent views and is quite pleasant.
The temple’s name is derived from Aruna, the Hindu god of the dawn. The temple is said to be especially striking at sunrise when the first light hits it (which I’ve never seen). or when it’s illuminated at night. A temple has existed on this site since at least the 17th century (Ayutthaya period).
The distinctive central tower, or prang (Khmer-style tower), was largely constructed in the early 19th century under Thai Kings Rama II and Rama III. It was completed in 1851. Major restorations occurred under Rama V, in 1980, and from 2013–2017 (when broken porcelain tiles were replaced and surfaces refinished). As you can appreciate from some of the photos below, the structure is covered in a mosaic of colorful Chinese porcelain shards and seashells
The temple’s most striking feature is its tall towers, especially the aforementioned central prang which is roughly 67–86 meters (230–270 ft) tall, depending on how it’s measured. It’s one of the tallest of its kind in Thailand and represents Mount Meru, the mythical center of the Hindu-Buddhist universe.. The top is crowned with a seven-pronged trident associated with Shiva. It is surrounded by four smaller satellite prangs. Because of the steep stairs (and associated falls), access to all but the lower levels of the central prang was prohibited when we visited.
Figures you’ll see include Hindu gods (such as Indra on the three-headed elephant Erawan), Chinese warrior statues, monkeys, and demons (yaksha).
If you visit:
- The Temple of Dawn is open daily from about 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
- Entrance fee is around 200 Thai baht for foreign adults (Thai nationals free; small children free)
- Modest clothing is required (shoulders and knees covered). Cover-ups are often available for rent.
The temple remains an active place of worship, so be respectful.
It’s one of Bangkok’s most photographed landmarks. And it’s a popular place for people to rent traditional costumes and pose for photos
It is as I remember. So unbelievably beautiful!
Thank you, Marilyn!