Travel Plan
Wat Arun

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · BANGKOK

Wat Arun

The Temple of Dawn: a porcelain-covered tower rising over the Chao Phraya River.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
1 hour
Entry
Paid
Best time
Sunset (from across the river)
Area
Thonburi

The Temple of Dawn with a porcelain-covered spire.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok

  • Ferry: Cross-river ferry from Tha Tien pier, about 3 minutes.
  • By boat: Chao Phraya Express Boat stops at Wat Arun pier.
  • Dress code: Cover shoulders and knees.

The story of Wat Arun

Wat Arun takes its name from Aruna, the Indian god of dawn. It became especially important after the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767, when King Taksin made Thonburi his capital and housed the Emerald Buddha here for a time.

Its central prang, more than 70 metres high, was extended in the early 19th century and is covered with pieces of colourful Chinese porcelain arranged as flowers. Steep steps lead to a terrace with river views.

Best time to visit

Best season

November to February.

Best time of day

Visit in the morning, then watch the sunset behind it from the Tha Tien side.

Night

It is beautifully lit after dark.

Tips before you go

  • Best seen at sunset from across the river.
  • Book a riverside rooftop bar or restaurant in Tha Tien for the sunset view.
  • Rent a traditional Thai costume nearby for photos.

Best hotels near Wat Arun

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok

Legendary riverside hotel founded in the 19th century.

See prices

The Peninsula Bangkok

Luxury hotel on the Chao Phraya with river shuttles.

See prices

Sala Rattanakosin

Boutique hotel by Wat Pho with views of Wat Arun.

See prices
All hotels near Wat Arun

What's around Wat Arun

  • Wat PhoAcross the river.
  • Grand Palace10 minutes by ferry and walk.
  • Chao Phraya RiverBoat tours and dinner cruises.
  • Wang Lang marketLocal market on the Thonburi bank.

Questions travellers ask

When is the best time to see Wat Arun?

At sunset from across the river.

How do I get there?

By ferry from Tha Tien pier.

How tall is it?

The central prang is over 70 metres high.

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Travel Plan · Wat Arun Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure