Location: Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan, 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok 10600, Thailand.
Why Wat Arun Matters
Rising on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun — the Temple of the Dawn — captures Thailand’s spiritual imagination with shimmering porcelain mosaics and a riverside silhouette that glows at sunrise and sunset. The temple blends Buddhist devotion with Khmer-inspired prang towers, telling stories of perseverance and renewal after the fall of Ayutthaya.
Quick Facts for Travelers
- District: Bangkok Yai (west bank)
- Hours: 8:00–18:00 (daily)
- Entry: ~100 THB (foreign visitors)
- Dress Code: Shoulders and knees covered; remove shoes inside halls
- Getting There: Take the ferry from Tha Tien Pier (near Wat Pho) for the best river views
Origins & History
Dating to the Ayutthaya era as Wat Makok, the temple gained its present name — Wat Arun, from Aruna, the Hindu god of dawn — when King Taksin arrived here at daybreak in 1768 while establishing Thonburi as his capital. Monarchs of the Chakri dynasty later restored and embellished the complex, creating today’s porcelain-clad prang ensemble.
Architecture in Plain Sight
The 70-meter central prang symbolizes Mount Meru, surrounded by four satellite towers representing the guardians of the cardinal directions. Its surface is decorated with broken Chinese porcelain and seashells — cargo remnants transformed into luminous floral mosaics that sparkle as light shifts throughout the day.
The Gate You Photographed: Yaksha Guardians
At the Ubosot (Ordination Hall) entrance stand two iconic yaksha giants:
- Thotsakan — the green giant (Ravana from the Ramakien)
- Sahasadecha — the white guardian
These mythical guardians hold clubs and symbolize protection, warding off chaos and reminding visitors that self-discipline protects the path to enlightenment.
Inside the Ubosot
The principal Buddha image — Phra Buddha Thammisornraj Lokathatdilok — is associated with King Rama II. Surrounding murals depict the Buddhist cosmos and scenes from the Buddha’s life, creating a serene, symmetrical meditative environment.
Best Times & Photo Tips
- Dawn: Soft glow reflecting the temple’s name
- Blue hour / night: Floodlit porcelain creates mirror-like reflections
- Angles: Centered symmetry at the yaksha gate, riverfront views, close-ups of porcelain rosettes
Respectful Etiquette
- Keep voices low
- Dress modestly
- Don’t point feet toward Buddha images
- Step aside for active worshippers
- Drones require permission
Bangkok Yai Neighborhood Notes
Pair a visit to Wat Arun with nearby attractions like Wat Kalayanamit, the Artist’s House (Baan Silapin), and river ferries. Enjoy coconut ice cream and pandan snacks along the surrounding lanes.
Travel Gear Inspired by Wat Arun
Explore pieces inspired by rivers, light, and mosaic textures from our brand Around the World in a Rush:
Practical Planning
- Cash: Keep small bills for ferries and snacks
- Footwear: Choose easy on/off shoes for temple halls
- Heat Tips: Visit early or late; bring water and sun protection
Fun Detail
Wat Arun appears on Thailand’s 10-baht coin — a daily reminder of renewal after darkness.
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