Wat Arun was built in the 17th Century. Though restored many times, especially in the 19th.
Arun is believed to be the god of dawn, hence the temple is named Wat Arun after the Hindu deity to whom the temple is dedicated
The temple has the tallest spire/prang which stands at an impressive height of 268.5 feet. One of the most popular things to do in Bangkok is climb the spire.
Porcelain from Chinese trading ships was used to decorate the towers in the temple. The porcelain is colorful and glitters, giving the temple a shimmering look.
The temple has a museum that houses ancient artifacts. From ancient religious texts to Buddha images and statues, the temple has many things worth seeing.
King Taskin had decreed Wat Arun to be a royal temple and had moved the Emerald Buddha statue here. But later, the Grand Palace became the home of the statue.
According to Buddhist and Hindu cosmology, Mount Meru is the center of the universe, and Wat Arun is the symbol for the mountain.
The temple is the main center for all Buddhist festivals. One of the most common things to do in Bangkok is for devotees to come here with offerings and prayers.
No doubt this is the top Bangkok temple to visit. It is located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and is loved by locals and tourists alike.
Though it is known as the ‘Temple of Dawn’, Wat Arun looks it's absolute best at sunset. Many tourists stand afar and watch the temple get illuminated every evening.