The Temple of Dawn

The Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun) is a named after Aruna, the Indian God of Dawn.

Despite the name, the most spectacular view of the glittering monument can be seen from the east side of the river at sunset, when the spires of Wat Arun make an impressive silhouette against the skyline. Make sure you set aside one late afternoon to see and photograph the imposing sight of Wat Arun at sunset with the Chao Phraya River in the foreground

Wat Arun is among the best known of Thailand’s landmarks.The main feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower) which are encrusted with colourful porcelain

Although the temple had existed since at least the seventeenth century, its distinctive prang (spires) were built in the early nineteenth century during the reign of King Rama II.
The temple enshrined the Emerald Buddha image before it was transferred to Wat Phra Kaew on the river’s eastern bank in 1785.

The towers are supported by rows of demons and monkeys. Very steep and narrow steps lead to a balcony high on the central tower. The circumference of the base of the structure is 234 meters, and the central prang is 250 feet high.
Opening hours : 7.30 am – 5.30 pm Daily

Admission fee : Free of charge for Thais, Baht 50 for foreigners

How to get there : SkyTrain to S6 Saphan Taksin Station (Silom Line). Leave via Exit 2 and take a Chao Phraya Express Boat at Sathorn or Central Pier to Tien Pier (N8). You can take the Orange Flag boat at 15 Baht, then take a cross river ferry to Wat Arun (3 baht)

Tip : If you wan to climb up the steps, make sure you don’t wear skirt if you do not want to expose yourself to those below you!