Wat Arun Ratchawararam: The Dawn of Faith, Art and Water
A place that is more than a temple
Wat Arun Ratchawararam, or "Wat Chaeng," played a crucial role during the Thonburi period and housed the Emerald Buddha before it was moved to Wat Phra Kaew. Today, it is a first-class royal temple reflecting both Thai art and multiculturalism.
Important highlights that should not be missed
- The prang is more than 80 meters high.
The prang is made from intricately decorated glazed tiles and fragments of Benjarong from China. When light hits it, it radiates a contemporary radiance, reflecting the cultural and trade relations of the early Rattanakosin period.
- The Royal Temple and the Buddha Dharmamisararaj Lokthatdilok
It houses important Buddha images, along with exquisite stucco patterns that combine Chinese and Persian art, such as giant soldiers, swans, lions, and floral designs made from broken tiles.
(Wat Arun Ratchawararam)
(Wat Arun Ratchawararam)Why is Wat Arun one of the world's top tourist attractions?
Wat Arun is ranked as an important symbol of Bangkok and is one of the world's top landmarks. Lonely Planet and TripAdvisor have used the image of the riverside prang to represent Thailand in many events, with its outstanding architecture, history and faith that blend together.
Tips for visiting Wat Arun
- Best time : early morning or before sunset (when the golden light shines on the prang)
- Dress code : Smart (no shorts, sleeveless shirts, off-the-shoulder shirts, or sandals)
- Things to carry : Umbrella, hat, sunscreen, camera
- For a deeper understanding : Ask a local guide for advice or join a guided tour.
Popular photo angles:
- The front of the prang reflects the water.
- Wide angle view of the Chao Phraya River
Beware: Beware of those who claim to be closing the temple and offer to take you to another place.
(Wat Arun Ratchawararam)How to get there
MRT: Sanam Chai Station (Exit 1) → Take a ferry from Tha Tien Pier
Chao Phraya Express Boat: Get off at Wat Arun Pier.
Bus: Line 1, 3, 32 (get off at Tha Tian bus stop and take a ferry across the river at Tha Tian pier)
Taxi/Private car: Park at the parking lot in front of the temple. It is recommended to come in the morning or evening to reduce traffic problems.
Why you should “not miss it”
Wat Arun is more than just a scenic viewpoint or a beautiful landmark. It's a moment of faith and art, expressed through every architectural element and the tranquility of the Chao Phraya River. If you're looking for an experience that combines past, present, and faith, this temple is the place to start.
(Wat Arun Ratchawararam)Information for visiting
- Location: Wat Arun Subdistrict, Bangkok Yai District, Bangkok
- Business hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM (daily)
- Admission fee: Free for Thais / 100 baht for foreigners
- Official website: www.watarun.net
(Wat Arun Ratchawararam)Reference sources
- Tourism Authority of Thailand – Wat Arun Ratchawararam
- UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Awards – Wat Arun Restoration
- Fine Arts Department – Wat Arun Ratchawararam
- Bangkok Post – Wat Arun's Rise in Global Popularity
