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).
.jpeg)
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 junks, 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, the Temple of Dawn, is famous as a Buddhist temple which is located close to the centre in Bangkok, Thailand. It is very iconic and greatly recognized as one of the mayor landmarks of the city. Wat Arun is situated on the bank of the Chao Phraya River Bangkok’s, main river its well precedented for its stunning and distinctive towering architectural design.
The temple's central feature is its prang (spire or stupa), which is gorgeously decorated with colorful old porcelain and seashells. The intricate details and workmanship of Wat Arun make it a visually outstanding monument.
Visitors to Wat Arun can even climb one of the steep staircase of the designated prang to reach the top, enjoying amazing rarely seen panoramic views of the river and the surrounding area including the Grand palace. The temple is also a place of worship and a substantial religious site for Thai Buddhists.
Wat Arun is open to tourists, it's a popular objective for both local and international visitors. It is particularly inspiring when illuminated at night. An significant part of Bangkok's historical and cultural heritage always included in tourist itineraries for good reason.
This temple is commonly referred to as Wat Arun. The name "Temple of Dawn" comes from the stunning way the temple appears at dawn when the first light of day and mirrors the sun off its surface, creating a fabulous and picturesque sight.
Thailand is known for its stunning and elaborate temples, which are an integral part of the country's cultural and religious landscape. Thai temples, also known as "wats," they are places of worship and also also centers of art, education and community activities. Please act with reverence when at a Wat.
Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is a famous Buddhist temple located in Bangkok, Thailand. It is one of the most iconic and recognized landmarks in the city. Wat Arun sits on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River and is known for its stunning and distinctive architectural design.
The temple's central feature is its prang (spire or stupa), which is beautifully decorated with colorful porcelain and seashells. The intricate details and craftsmanship of Wat Arun make it a visually striking monument. The design of the temple is a blend of Khmer and Thai architectural styles.
Visitors to Wat Arun can climb the steep staircase of the designated prang to reach the top, from where they can enjoy panoramic views of the river and the surrounding area. The temple is also a place of worship and a significant religious site for Thai Buddhists.
Wat Arun is open to tourists, and it's a popular destination for both local and international visitors. It is particularly impressive when illuminated at night. It's an important part of Bangkok's cultural and historical heritage and is often included in tourist itineraries for those visiting the city.
"Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn," is the full name of the iconic Buddhist temple located in Bangkok, Thailand. This temple is commonly referred to as Wat Arun. The name "Temple of Dawn" comes from the beautiful way the temple appears at dawn when the first light of day reflects off its surface, creating a stunning and picturesque sight.
ABOUT
I AM A RESIDENT OF BANGKOK FOR 27 YEARS.
This is a self-funded community based initiative assisting visitors of Thailand to have a memorable, informed and safe holiday experience. I welcome comments to ever improve this content and travellers experience.