Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun)
Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun)
4.5
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
About
This temple is considered to be the most famous and photographed temple in Bangkok, which features a soaring 70-meter-high spire decorated with tiny pieces of colored glass and Chinese porcelain.
Suggested duration
< 1 hour
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Neighborhood: Riverside
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See what other travelers are saying
- Guy TLondon, United Kingdom683 contributionsGreat place - go by ferry from the Grand PalaceWat Arun Temple, temple and more temples. It’s what you come to Thailand for & this one is just as beautiful as the rest. To get there the tourist boat stops outside of there is a little ferry boat (4 baht per person) which shuttles people from one side of the river to the other. We went later on in the day about 1600 and it was really nice to wander round. There isn’t anywhere to go inside but you can climb onto it and walk all the way round. It didn’t take us very long at all to take some photos and get round it. We would definitely recommend coming back at night as you can get a cracking views and it’s lit up beautifully. The little restaurants and bars on the opposite side of the river to it are some of the best places to see it from. It’s definitely one to see but if you are short on time you can see it from the river or from the other side you wouldn’t necessarily be missing out but not stopping and climbing onto it.Visited February 2020Traveled as a coupleWritten February 26, 2020
- KrubeeSingapore, Singapore577 contributionsWat Arun, The Temple of DawnThis is 4th time to step foot on one of the world's most beautiful temples set on the bank of the mighty Chao Praya River. The temple is beautiful specially during sunset and well illuminated bright orange at night. Built in the 17th century and named after Hindu God Aruna. Located in the Thonburi district of the Chao Praya River, you can go here via land transport but for me the best and the fastest way is via boat. Take the BTS and alight at Saphan Taksin station. From here you could take several types of boat but if you're a tourist the most practical way is to take the Chao Praya tourist boat for just 200 Baht, they can take you to different famous landmarks in the Chao Praya river including this beautiful temple. The main feature of the temple is its central tower, Khmer style prang standing about 85 m. It is surrounded by 4 smaller prangs. Made of Porcelain from China, glasses and seashells radiating vibrant white color specially during the day. Khon Guardians also are intricately carved like holding the layers of the temple. Unlike other temples in Thailand, this is a unique design. Ticket for the temple is around 50 baht and it is not too big. Strict dress code is implemented since this is an active Buddhist temple and a Holy ground. It will take you about an hour including your beautiful photos and videos to visit and marvel at the temple itself. The temple has many layers but we've been only up to the 2nd one. Please be mindful the steps are a bit small and steep typical of Khmer architecture. For persons with disability they may not be able to go to the 2nd platform. You can even go further up if you would like to be on the top. Beside the temple is the equally beautiful Ordination hall which has a Buddha statue inside designed by King Rama II. And surrounding the temple is its beautiful park with the monument of King Rama II and it is also a perfect spot to take a panoramic and landmark shot from the base of the temple. Opposite side of the temple across the river there's a boat that could take you to Wat Pho, Temple of Reclining Buddha (separate review). There are many restaurants, cafe and hotels opposite the temple with the grandest view of it. I personally tried eating at Sala Arun with an impeccable view of the temple and it is one of the best moments I had here in Bangkok - such beautiful and relaxing atmosphere indeed.Visited January 2020Written January 26, 2020
- HOOMANTehran, Iran1,187 contributionsFirst Rays of the Sun!Wat Arun is a Buddhist temple in Bangkok (west bank of the Chao Phraya River). The Temple of the Dawn towering over the Chao Phraya River is one of Bangkok’s most visually striking landmarks and also one of Thailand’s top attractions. The temple was built in 17th century in the era of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. The temple’s name has taken from the Hindu god “Aruna”. The temple’s central prang stands 79 meters tall and is decorated with tiny pieces of colored glittery glass. The first rays of the morning sun in Bangkok appear on the surface of the temple vividly. If you don’t want to be stuck in the crowd and you want to take full pleasure of the sunrise in the temple go there as soon as possible. You must wear respectable clothes for entering the holy temple, otherwise you have to pay money to borrow suitable clothes from the temple’s entrance. Wat Arun can be easily accessed through the Chao Phraya River by taxi boats which travel across the river. If you take a longtail boat tour for visiting Bangkok, you can see both Wat Arun and Bangkok’s other top attractions such as Chinatown, Wat Phra Kaew, Grand Palace and the Wat Pho, as you cruising the Chao Phraya River. Visiting of this really magnificent temple is highly recommended.Visited April 2019Written March 30, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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ciarbucks
Las Vegas, NV231 contributions
Feb 2020
Like most other temples in Thailand, please dress appropriately with long pants and tops that cover your shoulders! If you do not, they will refuse your entrance into the temple. However, there are many shops at the ferry dock and before the temple grounds in case you forget. However, I think it's always better to be prepared!
After a short walk from the Grand Palace (around 15-20 minutes), you take a ferry to the temple. Ferry prices are around 4 THB/person. This ferry ride takes no longer than 5-10 minutes. At the temple, entrance fees are 100 THB per person (but I read a sign that stated the fee will be increased to 200 THB per person on June 2020).
Once you go in, it is an absolutely magical experience. The architecture is amazing. Visitors are able to climb up to the lower portion of the wat to see the architecture up close. However, be careful! The steps are very steep. I suggest going as early as possible to avoid the baking sun and crowds as much as possible. We were there before noon and it was already becoming very, VERY crowded. However, seeing this temple from up close is worth all the sweatiness and crowds we endured.
After a short walk from the Grand Palace (around 15-20 minutes), you take a ferry to the temple. Ferry prices are around 4 THB/person. This ferry ride takes no longer than 5-10 minutes. At the temple, entrance fees are 100 THB per person (but I read a sign that stated the fee will be increased to 200 THB per person on June 2020).
Once you go in, it is an absolutely magical experience. The architecture is amazing. Visitors are able to climb up to the lower portion of the wat to see the architecture up close. However, be careful! The steps are very steep. I suggest going as early as possible to avoid the baking sun and crowds as much as possible. We were there before noon and it was already becoming very, VERY crowded. However, seeing this temple from up close is worth all the sweatiness and crowds we endured.
Written February 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Life traveller
North East England, UK3,804 contributions
May 2019
My Thai hosts took me on a trip down the Chao Phraya River by river taxi - very cheap, if you can distinguish them from the more expensive, tourist boats. I am sure the best way to approach Wat Arun is from the river, as you see its gleaming spires from afar. It was mighty hot when we were there - over 40%, and the Sunday crowds were searching for shade, as were we! The steps can be pretty steep, and the sun reflects brightly off the white and brightly painted glazed walls of the temple. It only costs 50 baht to enter what is probably the most iconic Buddhist temple in Bangkok, 250 years old and still in excellent condition. A must see, and approach from the river, if you can!
Written January 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kim G
Pacific Grove, CA3,187 contributions
Mar 2019
Prominently located on the Chao Phraya River, with its image on the reverse of the 10 Baht coin, this is my favorite temple in Thailand. Referred to as the Temple of Dawn, both sunrise and sunset plays beautifully off the light colored surface. Following the fall of Ayutthaya in 1768, King Taksin felt that this would be the perfect location for the new capital upon encountering the old temple "Wat Magog". He renamed it "Wat Jaeng" (Temple of Dawn); which King Rama IV renamed Wat Arunratchawararam; now simply: "Wat Arun". The Emerald Buddha was housed here until both the capital and the Emerald Buddha were later relocated to the far safer Rattanakosin Island, directly across the river. The spires (prang) were added in the early 19th century. There are several buildings to tour here with exquisite tiles and gold details, but the main "Wat" does require a small fee. This is a Buddhist Temple, so observe the dress code with men in long pants and shirts with sleeves. Women should have their shoulders covered, as well as their knees. There are numerous shopping stalls in the area for clothing and gifts, as well as places to grab a snack or refreshment. Arrive early to beat the crowds. The grounds are lovely to explore, or you could even rent a traditional Thai outfit for a photograph before one of the buildings. Easy to access by river ferry from Rattanakosin (Old City), or by public river boat. Do also view Wat Arun when it is illuminated at night, as it is absolutely stunning!
Written February 22, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
WanderingWithUsTwo
Phoenix, AZ737 contributions
Jul 2019
In Thai the word Wat translates to temple and Arun means dawn. Thus this temple is known in English as the Temple of Dawn. This is a very popular attraction for many tourists along with the Grand Palace which is located directly across the river from Wat Arun by downtown Bangkok. To get to Wat Arun you will need to board a ferry to take you across the river. The easiest way to get to one would be to board the Bangkok Transit System (BTS) and get off on the Saphan Taksin ferry stop. From there it is around 25 minutes via boat to Wat Arun with some stops along the way. There will be signs at the dock listing tourist boats but beware that many will try to overcharge. For two individuals you shouldn’t pay more than 100 THB one way. If you choose to board at a different location they may charge upwards of 350 THB per person in locations near the Grand Palace. If you are near there we suggest walking down 10 minutes to the Tha Thien ferry station and pay 4 THB per person instead. Once you arrive you will purchase an entry ticket for 50 THB and if you are not dressed properly they will allow you to rent a sarong for 20 THB with a 100 THB refundable deposit. Generally you should wear long pants and avoid showing open shoulders but they can be lenient at times. Once inside you are free to roam around but there will be security there who will warn you if you are doing something you aren’t supposed to. This is mainly to protect the temple as many people tend to climb on the structures to get a good picture. We highly advise visiting here especially If you are torn between this and the Grand Palace.
- @wanderingwithustwo
- @wanderingwithustwo
Written June 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sam S
Melbourne, Australia158 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
Not much to say about this stunning temple except that, boasting gorgeous architecture and lovely river views, it is definitely worth a visit. I arrived by train and on foot - the temple can be reached by an approximately 1.2km walk from Itsaraphap MRT Station, located on the Blue Line. I left by boat, which was incredibly cheap and conveniently dropped me at Wat Pho by the Grand Palace on the opposite side of the river. I recommend visiting around or shortly before sunset, as in my opinion it lends an even more picturesque quality to an already stunning piece of architecture. Make sure you put it on your must-see list!
Written January 22, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kaymtravel7
Los Angeles, CA800 contributions
Jun 2019 • Friends
This is smaller than the temples in and around the Grand Palace, but it is so peaceful and extremely beautiful inside, that I encourage you to visit if you have time. You must cross a river with a ferry / boat to get there, which is very inexpensive, and was not too difficult to find. It is walkable from the Grand Palace, but not right next-door. You must take your shoes off to enter the temple. It was an active, working temple with monks praying and doing things in and around it. We got stuck on the premises during a huge monsoon, and everyone was very gracious to let us wait it out.
Written April 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alex H
Port St. Mary, UK1,292 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
We visited here after walking for about 20 mins from Kao San area and getting the ferry across, which is cheap.
Entry to Wat Arun is 50 Baht at time of writing, but I think this is going up to 100 Baht during 2020.
It is much quieter than the Grand Palace and it takes around 30 mins to walk around completely.
We did it during the day at around 9:30am.
Architecturally it is absolutely fantastic to see, and some of the paintings of various stones and art work really is brilliant.
I’m sure this place means a lot to some people who we saw praying. We didn’t obviously feel the same appreciation probably because we aren’t religious, however we could certainly appreciate others’ love for Wat Arun.
Tips - bring water as expensive nearby, and wear long pants for both men and women.
Entry to Wat Arun is 50 Baht at time of writing, but I think this is going up to 100 Baht during 2020.
It is much quieter than the Grand Palace and it takes around 30 mins to walk around completely.
We did it during the day at around 9:30am.
Architecturally it is absolutely fantastic to see, and some of the paintings of various stones and art work really is brilliant.
I’m sure this place means a lot to some people who we saw praying. We didn’t obviously feel the same appreciation probably because we aren’t religious, however we could certainly appreciate others’ love for Wat Arun.
Tips - bring water as expensive nearby, and wear long pants for both men and women.
Written February 26, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wira
Lantau Island, China9 contributions
Jan 2020 • Family
A Beautiful, serene and oldest Temple complex in Bangkok area.
Take Saphan Taksin BTS station and walk towards the central pier to access the boat service. You can either take the public boat which depends on the time of the year might be a long wait. Cost THB 20 per person or take the private option at THB 100 one way or THB 200 for Hop on Hop off.
Take Saphan Taksin BTS station and walk towards the central pier to access the boat service. You can either take the public boat which depends on the time of the year might be a long wait. Cost THB 20 per person or take the private option at THB 100 one way or THB 200 for Hop on Hop off.
Written January 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JayRae1
Glasgow, UK1,551 contributions
Jul 2020
Wat Arun, is a 'must see' for anyone visiting Bangkok. My wife and I visited as part of an "Introduction to Bangkok" Tour, operated by Exo Travel Thailand. We pre-booked this with our Travel Agent, Trailfinders, prior to leaving the UK and that was worth doing. Our guide picked us up at our hotel and took us around the city, using various modes of transport, and visiting all of the most important sightseeing places. His knowledge of every place visited was invaluable, and saved us having to stop regularly to read up on the history of each place.
Although the central Prang is stunning, and the main feature in Wat Arun, there are other parts worth seeing. such as the main Chapel and the Ordination Hall. Wat Arun is normally visited during daylight hours, it is worth returning at night, if only to take photos when it is lit up. My wife and I were able to do that, as we booked a second tour, also with Exo, that included 'Bangkok by Night' and a riverside dinner. This gave us the chance to take photos in both daylight and nighttime and I will upload photos of both.
This is why going with a knowledgeable guide is such an advantage, as the names and history of each part are explained to you, saving invaluable time if you wish to visit other popular sights on the same day.
Although the central Prang is stunning, and the main feature in Wat Arun, there are other parts worth seeing. such as the main Chapel and the Ordination Hall. Wat Arun is normally visited during daylight hours, it is worth returning at night, if only to take photos when it is lit up. My wife and I were able to do that, as we booked a second tour, also with Exo, that included 'Bangkok by Night' and a riverside dinner. This gave us the chance to take photos in both daylight and nighttime and I will upload photos of both.
This is why going with a knowledgeable guide is such an advantage, as the names and history of each part are explained to you, saving invaluable time if you wish to visit other popular sights on the same day.
Written July 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fransisca
Jakarta, Indonesia6 contributions
Jan 2020
After you go to The Grand Palace and Wat Pho, ypu must see Wat Arun. Located near The Grand Palace, 10 minutes walk, and take a boat to the other side (price 4 bath).
Wat Arun stands as arguably the most stunning temple in Bangkok because of its riverside location and its dazzling design. Visitors are welcome to climb up to the middle level of the grand pagoda and those that do are rewarded with a beautiful view of the winding Chao Phraya River.
Admission Price 50 bath, cheaper than The Grand Palace and Wat Pho. Wat Arun Ratchawararam meaning Temple of Dawn, the scenery is very beuatifull in sunset, you can enjoy it in Yodpiman River Walk, there are many restaurants that have a direct view to Wat Arun.
Wat Arun stands as arguably the most stunning temple in Bangkok because of its riverside location and its dazzling design. Visitors are welcome to climb up to the middle level of the grand pagoda and those that do are rewarded with a beautiful view of the winding Chao Phraya River.
Admission Price 50 bath, cheaper than The Grand Palace and Wat Pho. Wat Arun Ratchawararam meaning Temple of Dawn, the scenery is very beuatifull in sunset, you can enjoy it in Yodpiman River Walk, there are many restaurants that have a direct view to Wat Arun.
Written January 30, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
sumit
Nabadwip, India1 contribution
Is there any entrance fees?
HOOMAN
Tehran, Iran1,187 contributions
Yes , there's an entrance fee for visiting the temple, as I remember it was about 100 Bht.
If you don't have a proper dress you can rent a sarong at the entrance of the temple.
Going there Early in the morning is highly recommended.
N6764FDstephaniet
Gmunden, Austria237 contributions
Welche Fähnchenfarbe haben die öffentlichen Boote zur Überfahrt zum Wat Arun, die 4 TBH kosten?
Conny
46 contributions
Blaue Fahnen sind die hop on hop of Boote. Die Orangen sind die einfachen Fahrten für 4 bht.
Odyssey821424
3 contributions
how to go by subway? is sanam Chai better or itsaraphap better?
Deta
Jakarta, Indonesia246 contributions
most people go to Wat Arun using water transportation. so better to take BTS to Saphan Taksin. Then from Saphan Taksin pier, just take a boat (there are many options, the premium one or the public transport you can choose) they will stop at Wat Arun.
Vinicius
Brasilia, DF1 contribution
It will be open on February 9, 2020 (Makha Bucha)?
FlavioYuji
Hamamatsu, Japan28 contributions
Sinto muito! Não sei lhe responder esta dúvida.
Amey T
Mumbai, India12 contributions
What's the best way to reach Wat Arun by BTS? I have easy access to Phra Khanong BTS station. I'd like to rely on public transport over cabs to reach given the traffic scene here. Any suggestions?
Prateek J
Pune, India18 contributions
You can take the nearest BTS station to Saphan Taksin, which is well connected to the Chao Phraya Express Boat at Sathorn Pier, where you can easily find a boat to take you to No.8. After getting off the boat, take ferry that takes you to the opposite side of the river!!
Tanvi N
19 contributions
Is Wat Arun open tomorrow? 16th July
Zizpas
Montreal, Canada101 contributions
Hello, unfortunately, I have no idea. I did visit some temples today in Chiang Mai and they are all open. Please be careful with taxi drivers telling you that they are closed. They sometimes try to take you elsewhere.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun)
- Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun) is open:
- Sun - Sat 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- We recommend booking Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun) tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 298 Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun) tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun):
- Three BEST Temples Bangkok City Tour "Must Visit" By The River (From $93.15)
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- Private Guide In and Around Bangkok: Custom Tour (From $58.00)
- In and around Bangkok Private Tour Guide with Custom Experience (From $57.40)
- Bangkok Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya River (From $40.71)
- Hotels near Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun):
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- (0.17 mi) Arun Residence
- Restaurants near Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun):
- (0.17 mi) Amorosa Bar
- (0.18 mi) Jin Chieng Seng by Inn A Day
- (0.18 mi) The Deck Restaurant
- (0.16 mi) Eagle Nest Bar
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- Attractions near Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun):
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- (0.46 mi) The Grand Palace
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