Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan

To me, Wat Arun is undoubtedly the most incredible and beautiful landmark in Bangkok. I was so impressed by its cultural grandeur and architectural beauties. Getting to this place is pretty straightforward as most of the ferries stop here. What I really suggest is the time to visit. To myself, later afternoon is the best. You will get to see the temple in the day and also how it looks even more gorgeous at night afternoon the lights get turned on.

This temple is truly one of the most beautiful and unique I’ve ever seen. The entry fee is 200 Thai Baht, which includes a complimentary small water bottle—a thoughtful touch. The architecture and intricate design of the structure are breathtaking and unlike anything else. While the area outside is quite crowded, the inside of the temple is much calmer, allowing you to soak in its beauty. There are plenty of souvenir shops around and clean bathrooms nearby, making it convenient for visitors. A delightful highlight was seeing people dressed in traditional Thai costumes, posing for stunning photographs taken by professional photographers available for hire. It’s definitely worth doing if you have time—the photos turn out incredible! Overall, a must-visit for its beauty, cultural significance, and photo opportunities.

Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is one of the most breathtaking and most visited landmarks in Bangkok. The temple, dating back to the Ayutthaya period and later restored by King Rama II, holds deep historical and spiritual significance in Thailand. Getting here is quite simple, as most ferries stop directly at Wat Arun, fare 5-20 Baht per person. The entry fee is 200 Baht. Make sure to dress appropriately—knees and shoulders must be covered. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon. To avoid the afternoon heat and feel the evening breeze and night charm. While the outer grounds can be crowded, the inner temple area is much more peaceful. Be cautious while climbing the steep stairs. There are plenty of souvenir shops and clean restrooms nearby. You can also choose to wear traditional Thai outfits, available for purchase at 150 Baht (photography not included). Professional photographers are available to capture stunning pictures at a higher rate, you can bargain.

Wat Arun is a magnificent temple with large columns and intricate details and carvings. It was crowded with many tourists and visitors dressed in rented authentic Thai clothing for photo shoots. This unfortunately took away from the experience, however you can certainly still find a moment of peace here. You are able to climb the stairs to walk around the structure, however take care as the steps are steep. The building is beautifully lit during sunset and in the evenings! Please be respectful and wear proper clothing, although they did not seem to enforce the no shorts rule when I visited.

**A Majestic Riverside Landmark in Bangkok** Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, **Wat Arun** (Temple of Dawn) is one of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks, offering a blend of rich history, stunning architecture, and serene beauty. Visiting this temple was an unforgettable experience, providing both a deep sense of spirituality and breathtaking views of the river and cityscape. **History and Significance** Wat Arun’s history dates back to the 17th century, though the temple in its current form was constructed during the reign of King Rama II in the early 19th century. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu god **Aruna**, who is often associated with the dawn. Its name, "Temple of Dawn," reflects its stunning appearance as the sun rises over the river, casting light on its towering spires. Wat Arun holds immense religious significance, not only as a Buddhist temple but also as a symbol of Thailand’s rich cultural heritage. **Architectural Beauty** The most striking feature of Wat Arun is its central **prang** (tower), which stands at an impressive 79 meters tall, making it one of the tallest structures in Bangkok. The prang is intricately decorated with colorful porcelain tiles, seashells, and pieces of Chinese pottery, creating a dazzling effect that catches the light at different times of the day. The design represents Mount Meru, the center of the Buddhist cosmos, with smaller spires surrounding the central one, symbolizing various aspects of Buddhist cosmology. Climbing the central prang is an experience in itself. Though the steps are steep and narrow, the effort is worth it for the incredible views at the top. From the summit, you get panoramic views of the Chao Phraya River, the surrounding temples, and the bustling city of Bangkok. On clear days, the sight is nothing short of breathtaking, and it provides an entirely new perspective on the city’s landscape. In addition to the prang, there are several other smaller structures and shrines within the temple complex, each beautifully designed with intricate carvings, murals, and Buddha statues. The surrounding courtyards are peaceful and well-maintained, offering a tranquil retreat from the lively atmosphere of the city. The overall atmosphere of Wat Arun is one of calm reverence, and it provides a serene space for reflection and prayer. **Experience and Atmosphere** Visiting Wat Arun is a deeply spiritual experience, as it is still an active place of worship. Locals and tourists alike come here to pay respects, meditate, or simply admire the beauty of the temple. The temple’s riverside location adds to its allure. As you approach the temple by boat, crossing the river from the opposite bank, the sight of the towering prang against the sky is awe-inspiring. When I visited, the temple was relatively calm, despite the usual crowds of tourists. The sounds of monks chanting and the faint smell of incense filled the air, enhancing the spiritual ambiance. The temple is especially beautiful at sunset, when the setting sun casts a golden glow over the prang, making it appear even more majestic. **Conclusion** In conclusion, Wat Arun is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Bangkok. Its stunning architecture, historical significance, and tranquil atmosphere make it one of the most memorable landmarks in the city. Whether you're interested in history, spirituality, or simply admiring beautiful architecture, Wat Arun offers a unique and enriching experience. The views, both from the temple itself and from the river, are some of the best in Bangkok, making it a highlight of any trip to this vibrant city.

Wonderful view and beautiful temple! I felt like I should have visited before. You can try the Thai costume there and can take amazingly beautiful pictures. We went there like around 6pm and that was an awesome sunset with a cool breeze but very crowded. You can enjoy the perfect view on the way to the temple from the Hop On Hop Off tourist boat. Highly recommend!

This is an evocative place, a complex of buildings among which there is one of the most beautiful temples in Bangkok, therefore always full of tourists. The basic ticket costs 200 Bath and includes some water. I would suggest seeing the temple at sunrise, as it is the temple of Aurora. Also if you get the chance, it's really nice to take a look from the opposite bank of the river. There are some boats that can take you there from inside the temple area. Enjoy💜

Beautiful building and site but be prepared to battle your way past hundreds of visitors both local and foreign clambering all over. It is lovely to see the exquisite costumes worn by many of yhe Thai people who visit....sadly not so much the flocks of official photographers who have photo shoots all over the place. On a positive note it is relatively cheap to get in but don't take a taxi to get there when it only costs 30 baht on a ferry from all over the city.