Wat Arun: The Temple of Dawn

Wat Arun Ratchawararam, known as the Temple of Dawn, is one of Bangkok's most stunning and recognizable landmarks. Rising majestically along the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, this ancient temple is famous for its distinctive spires decorated with colorful porcelain and seashells that shimmer beautifully in the sunlight.

History and Significance

Wat Arun dates back to the Ayutthaya period and was originally called Wat Makok (Olive Temple). When King Taksin established his new capital at Thonburi in 1768, the temple became the royal chapel and was renamed Wat Chaeng, meaning Temple of Dawn. The temple received its current name during the reign of King Rama II.

Key Historical Facts

• Originally a small temple during Ayutthaya period
• Served as the royal temple of King Taksin
• Major renovations by King Rama II and Rama III
• Height of central prang: 82 meters (after 2017 renovation)

Visitor Information

Opening Hours and Admission

Detail	Information
Opening Hours	8:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily
Admission	100 THB (foreigners)
Thai Nationals	Free with ID
Last Entry	5:30 PM

Dress Code Requirements

Similar to other Thai temples, modest dress is required:

Required:

• Shoulders covered
• Knees covered
• Respectful attire

Available at Entrance:

• Sarongs for rent: 20 THB
• Shawls available

Architectural Highlights

The Central Prang

The main tower (prang) is a stunning example of Khmer architecture.

Features:

• 82 meters tall
• Decorated with colorful porcelain pieces from China
• Intricate seashell and stucco designs
• Steep staircase to upper levels (currently limited access)

The Four Corner Prangs

Four smaller prangs surround the main tower:

Position	Dedicated To
Northeast	Moon god
Southeast	Moon god
Northwest	Wind god
Southwest	Wind god

Ordination Hall (Ubosot)

The main prayer hall features:

• Murals depicting Prince Siddhartha's life
• Buddha image designed by King Rama II
• Gilded decorations and paintings

Best Times to Visit

For Photography

Time	Experience	Recommendation
Sunrise (6:00 AM)	Golden light on spires	Photograph from east bank
Morning (8:00-10:00 AM)	Good lighting, fewer crowds	Best time to explore
Afternoon	Direct sunlight	Can be very hot
Sunset (5:30-6:30 PM)	Most iconic views	View from Tha Tien pier

Pro Photography Tips

1. Best sunset shots are from across the river (Tha Tien pier)
2. Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare
3. Night illumination begins around 7:00 PM
4. Riverside restaurants offer great vantage points

Getting to Wat Arun

By Chao Phraya Express Boat

The most scenic and recommended option.

1. Take BTS Silom Line to Saphan Taksin station
2. Exit to Sathorn Pier (Central Pier)
3. Board Chao Phraya Express Boat (orange or no flag)
4. Ride to Tha Tien Pier (N8)
5. Cross the river on the small ferry (4 THB)

Boat Fares:

• Orange flag boat: 15 THB
• No flag boat: 10-14 THB depending on distance
• Tourist boat (blue flag): 60 THB day pass

By Taxi

• From Sukhumvit: 150-200 THB, 30-40 minutes
• From Silom: 100-150 THB, 20-30 minutes
• Traffic can be heavy around river area

Cross-River Ferry

From Tha Tien Pier (near Wat Pho):

• Runs every few minutes
• Cost: 4 THB
• Duration: 3 minutes

Combining with Nearby Attractions

Create a perfect day exploring Bangkok's riverside temples:

Suggested Itinerary

1. Morning (8:30 AM): Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
2. Late Morning (11:00 AM): Walk to Wat Pho
3. Lunch: Tha Tien area restaurants (50-150 THB)
4. Afternoon (1:00 PM): Ferry to Wat Arun
5. Late Afternoon: Return to Tha Tien, watch sunset from pier
6. Evening: Dinner cruise or riverside restaurant

Distance from Wat Arun

Attraction	Distance	Transport
Wat Pho	800m	Ferry (4 THB)
Grand Palace	1 km	Ferry + walk
Khaosan Road	2 km	Taxi (60 THB)
Asiatique	4 km	Boat or taxi

Temple Etiquette

Do's

• Remove shoes before entering buildings
• Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees)
• Speak quietly and respectfully
• Turn off phones or set to silent
• Sit with feet pointed away from Buddha images

Don'ts

• Point feet at Buddha images or monks
• Touch Buddha images
• Take photos during prayers
• Stand higher than monks
• Use flash photography inside buildings

Useful Thai Phrases

English	Thai	Pronunciation
Wat Arun	วัดอรุณ	Wat Arun
Temple of Dawn	วัดแจ้ง	Wat Jaeng
Beautiful temple	วัดสวย	Wat suay
Where is the pier?	ท่าเรืออยู่ที่ไหน	Tha ruea yoo tee nai?
How much?	เท่าไหร่	Tao rai?

Facilities

• Clean restrooms available
• Small shops selling drinks and snacks
• Souvenir shops with Buddha amulets and postcards
• Shaded seating areas
• Water fountains

Emergency Contacts

• Tourist Police: 1155
• Wat Arun Office: 02-891-2185
• River Emergency: 1199
• General Emergency: 191

Wat Arun Visit Checklist

• Wear modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered)
• Bring 100 THB cash for admission
• Plan visit for morning hours (8-10 AM)
• Take Chao Phraya Express Boat for scenic approach
• Carry small bills for ferry crossings
• Bring camera for stunning photo opportunities
• Allow 1-2 hours for exploration
• Combine with Wat Pho visit across the river
• Watch sunset from Tha Tien pier
• Stay hydrated (bring water)
• Apply sunscreen for outdoor exploration
• Show respect at all sacred areas

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