Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun)

Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun) by the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok 🌅 🚤 Getting There 1. Take the BTS to Saphan Taksin Station → Board the Chao Phraya Express Boat (Orange Flag) to Tha Tien Pier → Cross the river to Wat Arun. 2. Alternatively, take a taxi or tuk-tuk via the Thonburi side, though traffic may be heavy. • The ferry ride costs only 4 baht, but the entrance fee for foreigners ranges from 100–200 baht depending on the time of visit. ⸻ 🌤️ Recommended Visiting Hours • Early morning (8:00 AM): Enjoy the warm sunrise light, perfect for photography and avoiding crowds. • Late afternoon to evening (4:00–6:00 PM): Witness the stunning sunset light on the temple spire before closing time at 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM). ⸻ 🔍 Artistic & Architectural Highlights • The temple spire is adorned with fragments of Chinese porcelain and seashells, originally used as ballast for trading ships. • The spire’s steep stairs offer a panoramic view of the Chao Phraya River and the Grand Palace area. (Elderly and children should exercise caution.) ⸻ 🧘♂️ Atmosphere & Visitors • A serene ambiance, especially in the morning and evening, with the scent of incense and the gentle sound of flowing water. • Both Thai and international tourists frequently visit for worship and photography, while families often bring children to explore the spire. ⸻ 👗 Preparation Tips • Dress modestly: Avoid exposing shoulders or wearing short skirts (vendors offer sarong rentals). • Wear easy-to-remove shoes, as you’ll need to take them off before climbing the spire. • Visit before noon or in the evening to avoid intense heat and large crowds. ⸻ 📸 Photography Tips • Capture shots from the opposite riverbank or aboard a boat cruising along the Chao Phraya River during sunset for golden light. • For unique angles, climb to the second level of the spire for a 360-degree panoramic view. ⸻ 🍽️ Recommended Riverside Restaurants • Try Supanniga Eating Room near Tha Tien Pier for a view of Wat Arun while enjoying dishes like crabmeat fried rice or Thai-style Massaman curry – a Michelin Guide awardee.