Wat Arun,
the Temple of Dawn

Wat Arun or the Temple of Dawn, is one of the most famous landmarks in Bangkok from its riverside location and most striking design.

Wat Arun or the Temple of Dawn, is one of the most famous landmarks in Bangkok from its riverside location and most striking design. Wat Arun is located on the west side of Chao Phraya River. It marks the most spectacular view from its glittering colorful decorated monument reflected over the Chao Phraya River which we​ can see during the sunset- an impressive sight of Bangkok’s Skyline. Wat Arun is one important temple of Thailand’s history and is one of the most famous tourist attractions, it is chosen to be the iconic landmark of Thailand.​ It​ symbolizes the​ logo​ of​ Thailand Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Wat Arun is well known for its the highest and most beautiful​ central​ pagoda (or prang in Thai) in Thailand, built in Khmer architectural style with features that resemble the temples of Angkor Wat. The​ Central Prang is​ surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs and 4 mondops (porches). The​ Prang​s​ were decorated with millions of small pieces of colorful Chinese porcelain and seashells with intricate details. The prang was constructed to enshrine the relics of the Lord Buddha underneath the stupa. The​ central​ prang represented Mount Meru, the center of the world according to Buddhist cosmology. The four corners smaller​ prangs​ surrounding representing the four continents around Mount Meru.Wat Arun.

Once you enter Wat Arun, you will see a pair of giant statues (yaksha) guarding the gate to the ubosot.These demons are the most famous giants because they are from the Ramakien Drama , the Thai version of the Hindu Ramayana epic.The white figure is named Sahassa Deja and the green one is known as Thotsakan, the Demon Rāvana.They stand in front of the temple, their hand holds big clubs at the top of the temple arch. They represent the guardians to protect the sacred place. They are first pair of demons of Ratanakosin period and are considered the prototype of demons in Temple of the Emerald Buddha Wat Arun.

Wat Arun contains the highest number of Chinese stone dolls of approximately 200 statues. These statues are used as ballasts for stabilization of the sailing ships in the old days. You will these statues around the temple complex.