Practical information
- Location
- Bangkok (Thonburi), Bangkok · 13.74369, 100.48892
- Dress code
- Dress politely: long sleeves, trousers or a knee-length skirt; no sleeveless, crop, tight or revealing tops. Take off your shoes before entering the chapel or other buildings. (source: thailand.go.th)
- Period
- Ayutthaya-era origin; central prang enlarged in the 19th century
Opening hours and entrance fee: no reliable source found, so not listed. Ask on site or check the official website.
About Wat Arun
Wat Arun rises from the west bank of the Chao Phraya River and is one of Bangkok's best-known landmarks. Its name refers to Aruna, the Hindu god of dawn, and its tall central prang is covered in pieces of coloured porcelain that sparkle in the sun. You can climb part of the steep tower for river views across to Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. The temple is reached in a few minutes by cross-river ferry from Tha Tien pier. Late afternoon, when the prang glows, is a favourite time for photos.
Highlights
- Porcelain prang The central tower is decorated with broken Chinese porcelain.
- River views Climb the lower terraces for views over the Chao Phraya.
- Ferry crossing A short ferry links the temple with Wat Pho's side of the river.
Tips for Wat Arun
- Cover your shoulders and knees and take off your shoes before you enter a temple building.
- Combine your visit with Wat Kalayanamit, about 1 km away as the crow flies.
More photos of Wat Arun
Two prangs seen from below against a blue sky, Wat Arun Photo: Photo Dharma from Sadao, Thailand · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons 
Porcelain-covered prang in close-up, Wat Arun Photo: Photo Dharma from Sadao, Thailand · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Wat Arun on the map
Pinch to zoom; tap a point for more info. Open circles: approximate location.
Frequently asked questions about Wat Arun
Where is Wat Arun?
Wat Arun is in Bangkok (Thonburi), Bangkok province, in central Thailand.
What is Wat Arun known for?
Wat Arun rises from the west bank of the Chao Phraya River and is one of Bangkok's best-known landmarks. Highlights include Porcelain prang, River views and Ferry crossing.
How old is Wat Arun?
Ayutthaya-era origin; central prang enlarged in the 19th century.