Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

Temple in Bangkok

Wat Arun – Temple Of Dawn

Locally known as Wat Chaeng, Wat Arun Ratchawararam, or the Temple of Dawn, is one of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks. Situated on the Thonburi side (west bank) of the Chao Phraya River, it offers a stunning view, especially during sunset when the glittering spires of the temple light up against the evening sky. The temple, named after the Indian God Aruna (the God of Dawn), is a symbol of both beauty and history.

History and Design

Wat Arun was originally envisioned by King Taksin in 1768, shortly after the fall of Ayutthaya to the Burmese. It is said that he arrived at this temple as dawn broke, giving the temple its name.

The temple’s riverside location and dazzling design make it one of the most breathtaking structures in Bangkok. The grand pagoda, or prang, stands at 70 meters tall and is adorned with intricate patterns created from small pieces of colored glass and Chinese porcelain. The pagoda’s design is inspired by Khmer architecture and is surrounded by four smaller pagodas. The Emerald Buddha, before it was moved to Wat Phra Kaew in the Grand Palace, was once housed in one of the small buildings in front of the grand pagoda.

Highlights

  • Climb the Pagoda: Visitors can ascend the middle level of the grand pagoda, where they are rewarded with panoramic views of the Chao Phraya River, the Grand Palace, and Wat Pho on the opposite bank.
  • Royal Barge Procession: Wat Arun plays a key role in the Royal Barge Procession, where the king would travel by boat to deliver new robes to monks at the end of Buddhist Lent.
  • Ornate Decorations: Inside the ordination hall, you’ll find beautiful murals depicting the life of Buddha, along with the golden Niramitr Buddha image. This Buddha image was designed by King Rama II, who created its wooden frame and covered it in gold leaf.
  • Symbolism of Mount Meru: Wat Arun’s structure symbolizes Mount Meru, the center of the world in Buddhist cosmology. The grand pagoda is surrounded by smaller pagodas and guardian statues facing each of the four directions.

Other Notable Features

  • Indra Statues: Over the second terrace, four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding the three-headed elephant Erawan can be seen.
  • Chinese Pavilions: Along the riverside, six Chinese-style pavilions house landing bridges where the Royal Barge Procession arrives.
  • Boundary Stone: The beautiful marble boundary stone around the Ordination Hall is one of the most impressive in Thailand.
  • The King’s Crown: At the very top of the grand pagoda is a king’s crown, placed by King Rama III as a mark of respect.

Visiting Information

  • Opening Hours: Wat Arun is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
  • Admission: The entry fee to the temple is 50 Baht.

Important Tips for Visitors

  • Dress Code: As a functioning Buddhist temple, visitors are required to dress respectfully. Men should wear long pants and short- or long-sleeved shirts (no tank tops or sleeveless shirts). Women should wear skirts or pants that cover the knee and tops that cover their shoulders.
  • Photography: Photography is allowed throughout the temple complex.
  • Climbing the Pagoda: The steps leading up to the main pagoda are steep, so caution is advised when ascending and descending.
  • King Rama II’s Ashes: The main Buddha image in the Ordination Hall holds the ashes of King Rama II, making Wat Arun his private temple.

Wat Arun is an architectural marvel that offers visitors a chance to experience the grandeur of Thai history and culture while providing stunning views and rich symbolism.

The Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bangkok!

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Visiting Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

Hours:

8:00 AM to 5:30 PM


Price:

50 Baht to enter the temple grounds.

Address: Wat Arun, Bangkok, Thailand
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