Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), Bangkok: Hours, Tickets & Travel Tips

Wat Arun Bangkok, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is one of the most famous temples in Thailand’s capital. Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, this iconic Bangkok temple stands out with its colorful spires, riverside setting, and more than 300 years of history. A must-see attraction for anyone visiting Bangkok, Wat Arun offers not only cultural value but also stunning photo opportunities. In this guide, you’ll find practical information to plan your visit smoothly.

Written by Preetika Narula (Local Expert)Updated on 22-08-2025

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The History and Meaning of Wat Arun’s Name

• From Wat Makok to Wat Chaeng

Originally, this riverside sanctuary was known as Wat Makok, a modest Ayutthaya-era temple. After the fall of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, King Taksin established Thonburi as his new capital and ordered the temple’s reconstruction. According to legend, he arrived here at dawn, which inspired the new name Wat Chaeng; the “Temple of Dawn.”

• Under Rama II and Rama III

In the early 19th century, King Rama II began a major restoration, including the raising of the central prang (tower). His successor, Rama III, expanded the temple complex and completed the smaller surrounding towers, giving Wat Arun its distinctive silhouette that we admire today.

• Wat Arun Today

Its present official name is Wat Arun Ratchawararam, translated as “Temple of the Bright Dawn.” The temple also once enshrined the revered Emerald Buddha before the statue was moved to Wat Phra Kaew in the Grand Palace. Today, Wat Arun remains not only a spiritual center but also one of Bangkok’s most photographed landmarks.

Wat Arun Architecture: The Unique Design of the Temple of Dawn

• The Central Tower (Prang)

The highlight of Wat Arun is its majestic Wat Arun prang, rising about 70–80 meters and standing as one of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks. Often referred to simply as the Wat Arun tower, this Khmer-style structure is covered with fragments of Chinese porcelain and colored ceramics. Under the sunlight, the surface shimmers and changes hues throughout the day, making it a favorite subject for photographers and a masterpiece of Temple of Dawn architecture.

• Secondary Towers and Shrines

Surrounding the main prang are four smaller towers, symbolizing the cardinal directions. These satellite towers, together with the central prang, create the signature silhouette that defines the temple. The grounds also house numerous shrines and statues of both Hindu and Buddhist origin, reflecting the blend of spiritual traditions and cultural influences that shaped Thailand’s past.

• Porcelain Decoration

What makes the Temple of Dawn truly unique is its intricate Wat Arun porcelain decoration, crafted from imported Chinese tableware in the 18th and 19th centuries. Plates, bowls, and colorful fragments were carefully arranged into mosaics depicting lotus flowers, arabesques, and geometric patterns. Seen up close, the Wat Arun mosaic reveals extraordinary detail, while from afar, the dominant hues of white, blue, and red glow under the sunlight, giving the temple a magical radiance at different times of the day.

This decorative art is not limited to the central prang but extends across the four smaller towers, the balustrades, and the niches filled with mythological figures. Climbing the steep steps of the prang lets visitors admire these details up close and fully appreciate the craftsmanship that transformed ordinary ceramics into sacred ornamentation, a hallmark of Temple of Dawn architecture.

How to get to Wat Arun in Bangkok?

Wat Arun is located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, directly opposite the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. Thanks to this central location, it’s very easy to combine all three landmarks in a single day. Here are the best ways to get to Wat Arun:

• BTS + Boat

From central Bangkok (Siam, Sukhumvit, Silom), take the BTS Silom Line to Saphan Taksin Station (S6). Walk a few minutes to Sathorn Pier and board a Chao Phraya Express boat (15–30 THB) or a tourist boat. Get off at Tha Tien Pier, then cross the river by local ferry (4 THB). Total journey: around 20–30 minutes.

→ This is the most popular option: cheap, easy, and enjoyable, giving you the chance to experience river life in Bangkok.

• Taxi or Grab

A quick and comfortable choice, especially if you’re traveling with luggage or in a group. Prices vary depending on distance (100–250 THB from central Bangkok), but be aware that traffic can be heavy during peak hours.

• Tuk Tuk

An iconic way to travel in Bangkok! If you’re already at Wat Pho or the Grand Palace, a tuk tuk ride across the river is short and fun. Expect to pay around 40–60 THB.

• On Foot + Ferry

If visiting Wat Pho or the Grand Palace, simply walk to Tha Tien Pier and hop on the ferry across the river (only 4 THB). This is the fastest and cheapest way to reach Wat Arun while combining several top sights in one day.

Things to Do at Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

Climb to the Top of the Prang for the Best Views

One of the highlights of any visit to Wat Arun is climbing the steep steps of the central prang. From the viewing platform, you’ll enjoy sweeping views over the Chao Phraya River, the Grand Palace, and Wat Pho just across the water. The Wat Arun sunset view is especially breathtaking, but each time of day offers its own magic:

• At dawn: The first rays of sunlight reflect on the prang, revealing soft golden shades.
• At sunset: The tower glows against an orange sky, creating a romantic atmosphere.
• At night: Illuminated by spotlights, Wat Arun sparkles, its silhouette reflected in the river, a perfect postcard scene.

Rent a Traditional Thai Costume

Another popular activity at Wat Arun is Thai costume rental for photos. Several small shops near the entrance offer colorful outfits with matching accessories, usually for around 300 THB. Many also provide quick hair and makeup services so you can look the part.

You can take your own photos around the temple grounds or hire a professional photographer on-site. With the towering Wat Arun prang in the background, the pictures make for unforgettable souvenirs of your Bangkok trip.

Wat Arun Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Go

Fake closures or rides: If someone tells you “Wat Arun is closed” or offers you a “special tuk tuk/boat,” it’s almost always a scam to take you to shops or unrelated places. Politely ignore and head directly to the pier or the temple entrance.

Fake tickets: The official Wat Arun ticket office is located right at the entrance. There are no “special tickets” sold outside, so don’t buy from anyone approaching you.

👉 Don’t worry: these scams are easy to spot once you know about them. As long as you go directly to the official entrance, your visit to Wat Arun will be smooth and enjoyable.

The last words

Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, is more than just a temple; it is a spiritual icon and an artistic masterpiece of Bangkok. With its centuries-old history, unique riverside architecture, and cultural experiences, Wat Arun remains one of the must-see attractions in Bangkok.

We hope this guide helps you plan your visit and make the most of your time on the banks of the Chao Phraya. Whether you come at dawn, sunset, or at night, Wat Arun will leave you with unforgettable memories of Thailand’s capital.

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