Wat Arun (the Temple of Dawn) is Bangkok's iconic temple on the west bank of the Chao Phraya, crowned by a tall central prang (tower) decorated with fragments of porcelain. The sunset and the night lighting seen from across the river are especially beautiful, making it one of Bangkok's top night views.
- Location: Bangkok Yai District, Bangkok (west bank of the Chao Phraya)
- Coordinates: 13.7437, 100.4889
- Admission: Foreign visitors pay (check when you visit)
- Best time: Dry season, November to February; sunset into night
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
Highlights
- Central prang: porcelain mosaic decoration and steep steps
- View from across the river: sunset and night views from the Tha Tien side
- Ordination hall and Buddha images: the temple architecture
Getting there by ferry
Cross the river by the cross-river ferry from Tha Tien pier, on the Grand Palace and Wat Pho side. For the sunset, it's also worth waiting at a café or viewpoint on the opposite bank.
Nearby
- Wat Pho: across the river by ferry, then on foot
- Grand Palace: on the same riverside temple route
- Riverside rooftop cafés: for the sunset
Tips
- Arrive an hour before sunset to watch the light change.
- The prang steps are steep, so watch your footing.
- The dress code applies (shoulders and knees must be covered); dress modestly.
Wat Arun dates from the reign of King Rama II, and its central prang is its symbol. The surface of the tower is a mosaic of 19th-century Chinese porcelain fragments that sparkle in the sun, and despite its name, it's most famous for its silhouette at sunset seen from across the Chao Phraya. The usual way in is a ferry of about 5 minutes (around 5 baht) from Tha Tien pier (pier 8) in front of Wat Pho.
FAQ
Is there an admission fee?
Foreign visitors pay (check when you visit).
How do I get there?
Take the cross-river ferry from Tha Tien pier.
Can I climb the prang?
Part of it can be climbed, but the steps are steep.
Is the night view good?
The sunset and night lighting seen from across the river are the highlight.
Is there a dress code?
Yes. Shoulders and knees must be covered.
Can I combine it with Wat Pho?
Yes, they are a short ferry ride apart.
Sources
- Tourism Authority of Thailand · TAT · accessed 2026-05-23
- Wikipedia: Wat Arun · Wikipedia · accessed 2026-05-23
Fees, opening days, dress codes and ferry services can change, so check official information before you visit.
Information was checked against the official sources listed above. Opening hours, fees and fares can change; please confirm with the venue or operator before you visit.