Wat Arun

Wat Arun’s most distinguishing feature is the impressive 82m high tower (prang) on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Wat Arun means Temple of Dawn and was named after the Indian god of dawn (Aruna). Construction started in the first half of the 19th century under King Rama II and completed later by Rama III. Not apparent from a distance are the superbly ornate mosaics decorating the whole structure with many statues and faces incorporated into the sides. The mosaics are made from broken Chinese porcelain, dumped from Chinese ships that called at Bangkok port using old porcelain as ballast. You can climb the steep steps to a platform near the top of the wat to get some great views of the river. At the ground level, there are a few awesome looking huge demon guardian statues (Dvarapala). There are ferries every 10 minutes that cross the river from Tien Pier (3B) to Wat Arun. It is an extra 3B and other boat tickets are not accepted, try to have some small change for the ticket. Entrance: 50B and open 8:00am – 6:00pm Address: 35 Arun Amarin Road, Bangkok * PHOTO TIP * - If you’re looking for a great sunset pic of Wat Arun a superb place is the Amorosa rooftop bar at the Arun Residence on the opposite side of the river. Address: 36-38 Soi Pratu Nok Yoong, 4th Floor, Arun Residence, Bangkok.