Temple of Dawn Bangkok

Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan in Bangkok has long been recognized for being an impressive Buddhist temple, earning it the name - The Temple of Dawn - earning itself this moniker. Placed within Bangkok Yai on the Thonburi side of Chao Phraya River, Aruna Temple takes its name from Aruna, an Indian god representing rising sunrays. Dating back at least 17th century construction with notable features that can be identified during Rama II&III's rule in early 19th century construction such as its recognisable central prang (spire). Wat Arun has long been recognized for its historical importance. Once known as Wat Bang Makok and then Wat Makok under King Taksin before evolving under him into Wat Chaeng before eventually earning its current royal title of Wat Arun. Wat Arun was home to an Emerald Buddha that served as an iconic marker of its significance until 2016, when it was relocated to Wat Phra Kaew for preservation and display purposes. Before that date however, Wat Arun proudly displayed this historic figure, serving as another indication of their historical relevance and relevancy. Rama II oversaw restoration and expansion projects, culminating in 1851 when Rama III finished construction of his main prang. Subsequent restoration work took place under Rama V and in 1980 additional extensive works were performed between 2013 and 2017 to repair broken tiles and lime plaster to preserve its beauty for many more generations to enjoy. Visitors should experience its breathtaking central prang, which stands 66.8 to 86 meters high with vibrant porcelain decorations, for an architectural marvel sure to wow any audience. Four smaller prang adorn the central structure to add even greater grandeur and magnificence, including porcelain shards, shells and figures of Chinese soldiers and animals arranged into captivating formations - it really makes the structure shine with splendor! Truly spectacular. Mount Meru can be symbolized with its central prang, serving as an auspicious icon while its surrounding ones pay homage to Wind deities. Wat Arun Temple extends far beyond its central prang and features an ordination hall replete with an iconic Buddha image, charming pavilions with Chinese architectural influences and murals dating back to Rama V's rule. Wat Arun conveys its profound spiritual philosophy with three symbolic levels on its central prang, each representing different realms of existence that give this striking structure depth and dimension. Visitors may reach this breathtaking structure via Chao Phraya River ferries from 8 AM-6 PM with an entrance fee of 200 Baht per visit. Wat Arun Ratchatharam can be found directly across from Wat Pho on the Thon Buri side of Chao Phraya River on Thon Buri side, originally under Ayutthaya period and initially known as Wat Chaeng. For inquiries please call 02 891 2185 Wat Arun Ratchatharam underwent major refurbishments work that ultimately earned it its current monogrammed moniker from King Rama II, giving rise to major modernisation work and ultimately to its current name which bears his monogram. King Rama III made an essential contribution to temple development with his signature project: building an iconic 82 meter high prang, later completed under King Rama IV and now known as Wat Arun Ratchawararam. Wat Arun stands out as an iconic landmark of Bangkok history due to its impressive architectural splendor and intricate details; once housing an Emerald Buddha from Vientiane. Today it represents all three aspects simultaneously when visitors arrive.