A striking riverside temple with spires encrusted in colourful porcelain, named after the Hindu god of the dawn.
A Porcelain-Encrusted Spire
Thousands of pieces of colourful porcelain and shells decorate the central prang.
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About Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, stands on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River directly across from the Grand Palace, its tall central spire, or prang, encrusted with thousands of pieces of colourful porcelain and seashells that catch the light beautifully at sunrise and sunset. Named after Aruna, the Hindu god of dawn, the temple has been a Bangkok landmark since the early Chakri dynasty.
Visitors can climb partway up the steep steps of the central prang for closer views of its intricate decoration and a view back across the river toward the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. The temple is particularly photogenic in the late afternoon and early evening, when the setting sun lights up the porcelain details and the temple's silhouette reflects in the river.
Why Visit Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)?
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Good to Know
The temple suits families, couples, groups and photographers, for a visit of 1 to 2 hours. The steps up the central prang are steep, so caution is needed, particularly for those with mobility concerns.
Taking the short cross-river ferry from Tha Tien pier near the Grand Palace is a scenic and simple way to reach the temple, adding a river crossing to the experience.
How to Reach Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
- 01
Pakistan to Bangkok
Fly from Islamabad, Lahore or Karachi to Bangkok, usually with one connection through a Gulf or Southeast Asian hub. Check current routes and book early.
- 02
Airport to Central Bangkok
Take the Airport Rail Link or a taxi into central Bangkok, usually 30 to 60 minutes.
- 03
Tha Tien Pier to Wat Arun
Take the short cross-river ferry from Tha Tien pier, near the Grand Palace.
- 04
Explore
Climb partway up the central prang and explore the surrounding temple grounds.
Things to Do in Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Best Time to Visit Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Excellent
Cool Season
November to February
The most comfortable weather for visiting and climbing the prang.
Recommended season
Good
Hot Season
March to May
Very hot, so an early morning or late afternoon visit is better.
Good time to visit
Good
Rainy Season
June to October
Frequent showers, though usually brief, and the temple remains open.
Good time to visit
Excellent
Any Time (Sunset)
Any month
Sunset offers the best light on the temple's porcelain details year-round.
Recommended season
Travel smart
Travel Tips for Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
A few useful things to know before you go there.
Visit at Sunset
The temple's porcelain details glow beautifully in the late afternoon light.
Climb Carefully
The steps up the central prang are steep and can be slippery when wet.
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active temple.
Take the Ferry from Tha Tien
A short, scenic way to reach the temple from the Grand Palace area.
Bring Sun Protection
The temple grounds offer little shade during the day.
Combine with the Grand Palace
Both sights are easily combined on the same day, just across the river from one another.
Bring a Camera
The porcelain details and river views are highly photogenic.
Check Opening Hours
Hours can vary slightly by season.
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Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Thailand
Frequently Asked Questions
It is the Temple of Dawn, a striking riverside temple in Bangkok known for its porcelain-encrusted central spire.
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