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Wat Arun: Temple of Dawn in Bangkok
Wat Arun Travel Guide: Tips for Exploring Bangkok’s Iconic Temple
Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is a Buddhist temple located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, Thailand. It is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and a must-visit for anyone traveling to Bangkok. The temple is named after the Hindu god Aruna, who is often depicted as the charioteer of the sun.
Wat Arun is famous for its stunning architecture, intricate designs, and beautiful sculptures. The temple’s central tower, known as prang, stands over 80 meters tall and is decorated with colorful glass and Chinese porcelain. Visitors can climb up the steep steps of the prang to enjoy breathtaking views of Bangkok and the Chao Phraya River.
If you’re planning a visit to Wat Arun, it’s important to know what to expect. This travel guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your visit, including tips on how to get there, what to wear, and what to see. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful place to escape the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, Wat Arun is a must-visit destination.
History of Wat Arun
Wat Arun, a temple steeped in history and culture, is believed to have been built during the early Ayutthaya period in the 17th century. Although its original name was Wat Makok, after the village it was built in, it was renamed to Wat Arunratchatharam by King Taksin after he relocated the capital to Thonburi in 1768.
King Taksin added tall prangs (Khmer-style towers) to represent Mount Meru, the center of the universe in Buddhist cosmology, and the central prang was further constructed and completed during the reign of King Rama II in the early 19th century. This central prang stands 82 meters tall and is adorned with colorful Chinese porcelain and seashells, making it an eye-catching sight.
Wat Arun has been recognized as a Royal Temple since the mid-19th century and has since become a symbol of the city of Bangkok, undergoing several renovations and restorations to maintain its beauty and historical significance.
Origins
The origins of Wat Arun date back to the Ayutthaya period, when a small temple called Wat Makok was built on the site. Over time, the temple fell into disrepair and was eventually abandoned.
In the late 1700s, King Taksin of Thailand ordered the temple’s restoration and renamed it Wat Chaeng, or…
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