Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchaworamahawihan, more commonly known as Wat Arun or the Temple of Dawn, is one of Bangkok’s most iconic and visually stunning landmarks. Situated majestically on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, its silhouette is instantly recognizable on the city’s skyline.
Dating back to the Ayutthaya Kingdom, the temple rose to prominence under King Taksin in the late 18th century. However, its distinctive form—the massive central spire, or prang—was significantly enlarged and decorated during the reigns of King Rama II and Rama III in the early 19th century. The towering prang, which reaches over 70 meters high, is a breathtaking sight.
The central prang is built in the Khmer-style, symbolizing Mount Meru, the center of the universe in Buddhist cosmology. What makes it unique is its dazzling exterior, meticulously covered in a mosaic of vibrant, intricate patterns made from thousands of fragments of colored Chinese porcelain and seashells. This unique decoration causes the temple to shimmer and sparkle, especially at sunrise and sunset, giving rise to its popular name.
Wat Arun remains a vital place of worship and a must-see for visitors, offering a glimpse into Thai art, history, and spiritual devotion.
