Travel Diary of Wat Arun | Climbing the Tower of Dawn to Overlook the Chao Phraya River.

Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, was the highlight of my trip to Bangkok. Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, it only takes a few minutes to cross over by boat. As soon as you disembark, the towering white main spire immediately catches your eye. The spire is intricately adorned with countless ceramic pieces and shells, glistening under the sunlight—a truly breathtaking sight. I deliberately chose to visit in the morning when the light is soft and the crowds are sparse. Slowly climbing the narrow stairs of the main spire, I could feel the history of the structure and the craftsmanship of its builders with every step. From the top, the panoramic view of the river, the Grand Palace on the opposite bank, and the Bangkok cityscape is stunning. The boats bustling on the river add a vibrant touch to the scene. Although the temple is not very large, its unique architectural style and riverside location make Wat Arun one of the most memorable attractions of my Bangkok trip. If time permits, I highly recommend visiting in the evening to witness the sunset turning the spire red, transforming the Temple of Dawn into the "Temple of Dusk"—a sight with its own special charm.