If there’s one place in Bangkok that truly stays with you as a memory, then it’s Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan, commonly known as Wat Arun or the Temple of Dawn. It’s easily one of the most stunning temples in Bangkok, with its tall, towering spires gleaming into the sky and its rich history resonating through the centuries. Truly, this riverside temple is a place of worship and experience.
All About Wat Arun
Wat Arun Photos
Side of Wat Arun
About Wat Arun
Wat Arun, situated on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River also an iconic temple which comes from the Ayutthaya era. It is not only celebrated for its beauty but also for its history, spiritual significance and royal legacy.
After the fall of Ayutthaya, King Taksin arrived at this place and was moved by the sunrise casting over the temple and named it Wat Chaeng, also known as the Temple of Dawn. During the rule of King Rama II and King Rama III, the temple underwent renovation and expansion. And later King Rama IV expanded the temple into more area.
In Thailand people worship Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most sacred image of the Buddha was moved to Wat Phra Kaew in the Grand Palace during the reign of King Rama I though the Emerald Buddha is not there anymore but temple remains a strong spiritual and active place for worship among people. In people hearts it stands as a symbol of Thai identity, resilient, reflective, and radiant.
Why Is Wat Arun Famous?
Iconic Architecture
Specifically, a Khmer-style tower ascends about 70 meters into the sky; this structure, known as the Central Prang, is embellished with colourful porcelain shards and seashells. These materials uniquely reflect sunlight, causing the temple to shimmer and glow at different times of the day. This effect solidifies its reputation as one of the most visually unique temples in Southeast Asia.
Spiritual Significance
Wat Arun is more than just a tourist attraction. It has long been a place of worship and meditation. Its association with dawn symbolises new beginnings, which holds powerful meaning in Buddhist philosophy.
Magical Sunrise and Sunset Views
During Sunrise, some of the most unforgettable views in Bangkok are the temple seems to radiate golden light, while the silhouettes of its spires stand against a glowing sky. Whether viewed from a boat or across the river, these moments are pure visual poetry.
Symbol of the City
Wat Arun isn’t just a temple; rather, it’s a symbol of Bangkok itself. For many visitors, it becomes one of the most enduring memories of their trip to Thailand, a testament to the country’s grace, culture, and timeless charm.
How to Reach?
Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan is located at 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok, 10600, Thailand.
Here’s how you can reach there:
By Ferry
The most popular and memorable way to reach Wat Arun is by river.
- Take the BTS Skytrain to Saphan Taksin Station (using Silom Line).
- From there, walk to Sathorn Pier and board the Chao Phraya Express Boat heading north.
- Get off at Tha Tien Pier, then take the short ferry across the river to Wat Arun Pier.
You will find the temple the moment you step off the boat. This route not only saves your time during traffic hours but also gives you a glimpse of Bangkok’s riverside view.
By Taxi
If you want more comfortable ride then you should go with this option: Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab, which are available throughout the city. Just keep in mind that Bangkok’s traffic can be slow, especially during peak hours.
By Walking
Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and the Grand Palace are all situated nearby, and some people cover all this in a single day. Wat Arun is located directly across the river from Wat Pho. After exploring Wat Pho, just walk to Tha Tien Pier and take the ferry across to go to other places
Timings / Opening Hours
Daily: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tips: Plan to visit either early in the morning or just before sunset for the best light experience and fewer crowds.
Tickets and Entrance Fees
Entry Fee:
- For Foreigners: 100 Baht
- Thai citizens: Free
Additional fees may apply if you want to climb the central prang.
Dress Code
Wat Arun is a functioning temple, so modest attire is a must:
- Shoulders and knees should be covered. (Apply to all Genders)
- Avoid tight or revealing clothing.
- Sarongs are available for rent near the entrance if needed.
Things to Do (Activities and Experiences)
Climb the Central Prang
If you visiting Central Prang, then you shouldn’t forget about getting into the main tower and getting a panoramic view of the Chao Phraya River, the Grand Palace, and the Bangkok skyline. What is unforgettable? It is especially the breeze and the hum of the river below.
Watch the Sunset by the River
If you’re not climbing the Prang, then you should not miss the outstanding view of Sunset by the side of the riverbank. The spires present on the temple reflect and glow softly into golden light, creating one of the most cinematic scenes in Bangkok.
Visit the Museum at the Base of the Prang
After coming out of the Prang, you will see a small museum situated at the base of the Prang, where you can learn more about the temple’s history and the role of Buddhism in Thailand. Also you can witness the craftsmanship of different tiles and Porcelain Cups.
Meditate in the Temple Grounds
For a true peaceful experience, you should find a quiet corner of the temple grounds to meditate and calm yourself using the help of the sound of the river and the calm atmosphere of Wat Arun.
This will provide you with a sense of inner peace and let you enjoy the moment of stillness.
Take a Boat Ride on the Chao Phraya River
You can boost your experience at Wat Arun with a boat tour on the Chao Phraya River. There are various boat services available which offer scenic tours, allowing you to experience the temple from the water and explore nearby landmarks like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho.
Best Time to Visit
Visiting at the Right time can make a huge difference. The Best time to visit these places is according to
November to February
This period is generally considered the best time to visit, because of its cool and comfortable weather, making it more fun and interesting to explore the places of Thailand.
Early Morning
Between 8:00–9:00 AM is considered the best time to visit and take a photograph, and explore the places. Also, early morning, the cities are quite calmer than usual normal rest of the day.
Also, you can experience a calm riverside breeze. Good for enjoying the temple’s atmosphere without the sun’s too much heat.
Late Afternoon
Between 4:30–5:30 PM, this time is good for seeing the temple’s porcelain surfaces, which shine beautifully, creating a magical golden effect.
You can experience great riverside views with much lower temperatures, during this time of the day, and also, if you’re not climbing the prang, this is a lovely time to just sit by the river and enjoy the view.
During Thai Holidays and Festivals
Try to avoid visiting during this time of the year, generally during this major festival like Songkran (April) or Loy Krathong (November), the temple gets very busy and crowded. Also, if you want to explore the traditions and culture of Thailand, you can visit, but be prepared for the crowds.
Tips: Avoid Midday (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM). The sun can be intense, especially if you’re climbing the stairs or walking
Also tends to be more crowded around lunchtime, so it’s better to avoid during this time of the day.
Is Visiting Wat Arun Worth It?
Even if you’ve visited numerous temples across Thailand, Wat Arun still holds a special, perhaps unmatched, place in one’s memory. Its beautiful riverside view, the towering prang, and the porcelain that seems to glow like gold under the sun’s touch create a unique ambiance. It’s a place where people can connect with history and spirituality, all in one captivating setting.
This place offers you something unique for people like:
Photographers: changing light from morning to sunset gives you endless opportunities to capture stunning shots.
History Lovers: The temple’s story, from its Ayutthaya roots to royal restorations, gives you a deep understanding of the history, wars and architecture that have happened over the centuries.
Solo travellers or spiritual seekers: The peaceful corners and quiet courtyards allow you calm your mind and bring inner peace within you.
More Places to Visit Nearby
Wat Pho is Famous for its 46-meter long Reclining Buddha. It is generally considered one of Bangkok’s oldest and largest temple complexes. Also, the original birthplace of traditional Thai massage with an on-site school where you can book an authentic massage experience. The temple grounds are beautifully well-maintained, making it a perfect spot to explore.
Tips: Arrive as early morning as possible to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful prayer of the monks during morning prayers.
2. Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew
Indeed, the grandeur of Grand Palace showcases opulent Thai architecture, golden spires, and intricate murals. Furthermore, inside the palace grounds is Wat Phra Kaew, home to the Emerald Buddha, one of the most sacred religious artifacts present in Thailand.
Tips: Dress modestly, with covered shoulders and knees or you may be denied entry.
It is an interactive museum which takes a modern approach to history, ideal for both kids and adults.
It has multimedia exhibits and installations which give you an explanation about what it means to be Thai, explaining everything from religion and language to pop culture.
Also, it’s a 10-minute walk or a short tuk-tuk ride from the city.
It is a stylish open-air lifestyle mall that offers you much more than retail therapy. There you’re going to find riverside cafes, local artisan boutiques, and tasty foods with stunning views of the Chao Phraya River. It’s a great spot to rest, grab a snack, or sip coffee while watching boats drift by.
Also known as Flower Market, it is considered Thailand’s largest flower market, filled with the fragrance of fresh jasmine garlands, roses, orchids, and marigolds. The market is open 24/7 and also sells fresh fruits, vegetables, and offerings used in temple rituals.
The best time to go is between 2 AM and 6 AM for the full flower-unloading experience, or after sunset for a cooler environment.
6. Tha Tien Market
Situated right next to the ferry terminal, often overlooked by tourists, this traditional market is a hidden gem for local snacks, spices, and dried seafood. If you want to find a glimpse of the old Bangkok then this is the best place for you. You can try authentic flavours or buy local souvenirs.
7. Wat Saman Rattanaram
Wat Saman Rattanaram temple is located in Chachoengsao province, which is an hour away from Bangkok this This temple is famous for the long pink Ganesha, which is 16 meters tall and 24 meters long, and it is believed that this is one of the biggest ganesha temples in the world.
Final Thoughts
Take your time here. Explore and see what it has to offer you.
In a city that’s always on the move, this temple by the river feels like a pause button. You walk in expecting to see something beautiful, and you will find the same somewhere between the first glimpse of its towers and the quiet moments by the water.
Consider how each tiny ceramic piece reflects the light differently. Similarly, people have been coming here from different parts of the world, praying here for hundreds of years, carrying their hopes, worries, and quiet dreams.
You can sit for a while. And can let the river breeze hit your face. Let the moment be simple,Real,Yours. temple is a place to feel something deeper, a quiet connection to the past, the present, and the spirit of Bangkok. Before visiting Wat Arun Temple, we recommend learning some basic Thai phrases.
Frequently Asked Questions
The entrance fee for Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) is 100 Thai Baht for foreign visitors. Thai nationals may enter for free. Additional charges may apply for certain areas or exhibitions inside the temple complex.
To reach Wat Arun by boat, take the Chao Phraya Express Boat to Tha Tien Pier. From there, a short cross-river ferry ride (around 5 Thai Baht) will take you directly to Wat Arun Pier, located right in front of the temple.
“Arun” in Thai means “dawn” or “morning light.” Wat Arun is named the Temple of Dawn because it looks particularly stunning during sunrise, as its spires reflect the early morning light beautifully.
Yes, Wat Arun is beautifully illuminated at night, making it a popular spot for evening photography and river cruises. While the temple grounds close in the evening, you can still enjoy the view from across the river, especially from Wat Pho or a riverside restaurant.