WAT ARUN IS ONE OF WORLD'S RENOWNED ICONIC LANDMARKS.
A BUDDHIST TEMPLE HAS EXISTED AT THIS SITE SINCE
THE AYUTTHAYA KINGDOM. 1351–1767.
It is one of the most spectacular and recognizable Thai landmarks. Idyllically situated amongst the picturesque river scenes capturing stunning contrast with the surrounding modern cityscape.
WAT ARUN
THE TEMPLE OF DAWN
WAT ARUN IS ONE OF WORLD'S RENOWN ICONIC LANDMARKS.
A BUDDHIST TEMPLE HAS EXISTED AT THIS SITE SINCE
THE AYUTTHAYA KINGDOM. 1351–1767 AD.
It's one of the most spectacular and recognizable Thai landmarks. Idyllically situated amongst picturesque river scenes, capturing the stunning contrast with the surrounding modern cityscape.
Wat Arun assertively stands in awe of Bangkok's skyline well established prior to industrialisation. Visitors journey here in pilgrim like status, due to it’s one of few temples you are permitted to climb its main staircase, rewarding the intrepid with panoramic views of the bustling Chao Phraya river, the Grand Palace and Wat Pho on the opposite bank.
IT'S DESIGN IS DISSIMILAR TO MANY OTHER THAI TEMPLES WITH ITS IMPOSING 82M TALL (269FT) SPIRE (PRANG).
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THE TEMPLE DERIVES ITS NAME FROM THE HINDU GOD ARUNA. EMBODIED AS THE RADIATIONS OF THE RISING SUN. THE FIRST GLIMMERS OF MORNING LIGHT REFLECT AGAINST THE TEMPLES PEARLY IRIDESCENCE GIVING IT A MAJESTIC APPEAL.
King Taksin (1734–82) when establishing the new capital of Thonburi, following the fall of Ayutthaya (previous Thai capital), brought with him from Vientiane, Loas, The Emerald Buddha which was previously housed in one of the two small buildings located in front of the Grand Pagoda.
THE UTMOST SACRED THAI RELIGIOUS ICON, THE EMERALD BUDDHA, AND ENSHRINED IT IN WAT ARUN. IT WAS SUBSEQUENTLY TRANSFERRED TO THE TEMPLE OF THE EMERALD BUDDHA IN THE GRAND PALACE IN 1785 AD.
THE MAIN CENTRAL SPIRE WAS COMPLETED IN 1851 AD.
IT SYMBOLISES MOUNT MERU FROM HINDU COSMOLOGY WHICH IS CONSIDERED TO BE THE CENTRE OF ALL PHYSICAL, METAPHYSICAL AND SPIRITUAL UNIVERSES.
The surrounding spires are devoted to the wind God, Phra Phai. The giant white figurine is Sahassa Deja and the giant green figurine is Thotsakan. The Giants (yaksha) face in four directions to offer protection. The central spire is topped with a seven pronged trident, known as "Trident of Shiva". At the second terrace there are four statues of the Hindu God Indra riding on Erawan, (a colossal elephant with three heads). Around the base of the spire are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers.
In Buddhist iconography, (study of pictures) the central spire is considered to have three symbolic levels. The base represents Traiphum indicating every realm of existence. The middle signifies Tavatimsa, the Tusita Heaven, where all desires are gratified, and the top denotes Devaphum indicating six heavens within seven realms of happiness.
The spires are decorated by shells of tropical sea snails and pieces of porcelain, which were previously used as ballast by trading Chinese sailing junks, visiting local ports, many centuries ago.
During 1809 to 1824 AD, a rebuild and restoration of the temple was initiated. It's original central stupa (a place of burial or a receptacle for religious objects) was raised even higher. With subsequent restorations in 1868–1910, and also in honour of the bicentenary celebration of Bangkok's founding in 1980. The most extensive restoration work on the spire was undertaken, from the Fine Arts Department in 2013 to 2017. The work was meticulously undertaken to reflect the temple's original appearance whilst preserving the decorative patterns and colours on the numerous ancient tiles.
THE JOURNEY WITHIN THE TEMPLE.
APPROACH THE HOLIEST COMPOUND IN THE TEMPLE.
THE ORDINATION HALL.
You are confronted with two towering giant guardian figures, dressed in elaborate and brilliant design. Admire the mural paintings inside the hall narrating the chronicles of Lord Buddha’s life.
Some of King Rama’s II (1767 - 1824), ashes are interred in the base of the presiding sacred golden Niramitr Buddha image.
Niramitr Buddha image
WAT ARUN IS A PROMINENT PLACE OF WORSHIP AND RITUALS FOR BUDDHISTS, MONKS AND DIGNITARIES ALIKE. PLEASE KEEP IN MIND TO ACT WITH RESPECT AND REVERENCE AT ALL TIMES.
Find your way to the other magnificent and revered golden Buddha image within the temple.
Ancient Chinese sculptures acting as guardians adorn the grounds. On closer examination you will fully appreciate the individuality and uniqueness, showcasing the intricate skills of Thai artisan craftsmanship.
OPENING HOURS
8 AM - 6 PM DAILY
GETTING THERE-WAT ARUN
DETAILS TO GET THERE
วัดอรุณราชวราราม ราชวรมหาวิหาร
GOOGLE MAPS
ADULT ENTRY FEE
200 BAHT
SMALL CHILDREN
FREE
SCAMS
IT’S NOT IN THAI CULTURE TO APPROACH YOU ON THE STREET. DO NOT LISTEN TO ANYONE ON YOUR WAY TO THE TEMPLE ESPECIALLY OFFERING CHEAP RIDES OR THE TEMPLE IS CLOSED TODAY.
RENT THAI CUSTOME
1) OPTION
2) INSIDE WAT ARUN
DRESS CODE
IS STRICTLY CONSERVATIVE, IF YOU’RE UNSURE THEN IT’S A NO. CLOTHES TO COVER UP ARE AVAILABLE FOR RENT AT THE TEMPLE.
VIDEO WAT ARUN
Wat Arun Bangkok, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is one of Bangkok’s most iconic Buddhist temples. Situated on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River, it captivates visitors with its distinctive architectural style, which blends Khmer and Thai influences. Its central prang (spire or stupa), adorned with colorful porcelain and seashells, is an impressive focal point visible from afar.
In the dedicated area, visitors can climb the temple’s steep staircase to enjoy majestic panoramic views of the river, the surrounding cityscape, and nearby landmarks, including the Grand Palace. Beyond its architectural grandeur, Wat Arun holds deep religious significance for Thai Buddhists and remains an active place of worship. It is open to tourists year-round and is especially breathtaking at night when illuminated.
The name “Temple of Dawn” arises from the temple’s dazzling appearance at sunrise, when the first light of day reflects off its surface, creating a memorable spectacle. In Thailand, temples—often called “wats”—serve not only as places of worship but also as centers of art, education, and community life.
All visitors are encouraged to behave respectfully when entering a Wat.