Places To Visit In Bangkok: Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
About Wat Arun
Of all the Buddhist temples or wats in Bangkok, Wat Arun offers some of the most breathtaking visuals. Viewing this magnificent temple at sunset from the East bank of the Chao Phraya river is one of the most breathtaking experiences you can enjoy in Thailand, or anywhere else for that matter.
The central pagoda with a spire (prang) is the tallest to be found on any Wat in Thailand. The pagoda makes this temple something you simply can’t miss on your trip to Bangkok. The central prang of this building is 82 meters high and consists of twenty floors. The outside of the structure is made up of several million pieces of porcelain. There are several other pavilions made of green granite that contain significant Buddhist shrines.
Things to look out for include the four statues of the Hindu God, Indra on his mount Erawan, and the two “demons” or temple guardians who stand watch outside the front entrance.
Brief History Of Wat Arun
Wat Arun is nearly 400 years old, and as such, is one of the oldest surviving Wats in or near Bangkok. The wat has enjoyed several different names over its long lifetime, and nearly each king of the Chakri dynasty tried to gave it a new one. The temple has played host to one of Thailand’s most highly prized Buddhist relics, the Emerald Buddha, and is greatly honored by the Thai royal family.
Tips for visitors to Wat Arun
By far the best way to visit Wat Arun is by boat, taking a serene cruise along the turquoise Chao Phraya River to arrive facing the Wat in early evening. If you prefer to visit by land, you can take buses 19, 57 or 83. Wat Arun is open during the day, but not on national holidays.