Wat Arun is a popular attraction and a Buddhist temple located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, Thailand.
About Wat Arun
The temple is named for the Hindu god Aruna, who is associated with the dawn, and is renowned for its intricate and colourful architectural details. Wat Arun is one of the most iconic landmarks in Bangkok and a must-see destination for visitors to the city.
The main attraction
The temple’s most distinctive feature is its main stupa, which is adorned with colourful Chinese porcelain. The porcelain was brought to Thailand by traders from China in the 19th century and was used to decorate the temple’s main stupa and pagoda. The stupa stands over 80 feet tall, and visitors can climb to the top of the temple for a panoramic view of the city and the river.
What to expect
In addition to its architectural splendour, Wat Arun is also an active temple, where Buddhist monks reside and perform ceremonies. Visitors can observe traditional Thai spiritual practices and learn about the local culture and customs. Wat Arun also has a small museum that showcases the history of the temple, and the intricate details of Thai Buddhist art and architecture.
Location
Wat Arun is located on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River. The easiest way to get there is by taking a boat from the pier at Wat Pho. The boat ride provides a great view of the temple and the city, and it’s a great way to start or end your visit if you are put up at Bangkok serviced apartments the likes of Ascott Sathorn Bangkok.
