Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan Bangkok

Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan in Bangkok has earned itself the moniker "Temple of Dawn". An incredible Buddhist temple located there, it provides an invaluable center of religious learning in Thailand. Bangkok Yai lies along the Thonburi side of Chao Phraya River in Bangkok Yai and draws its name from Aruna, an Indian god representing rising sun rays. Historic SignificanceThis iconic landmark dates back as far as 17th Century construction with its striking central prang or "spire", constructed during Rama II & III's rule and completed sometime before early 19th Century construction. Wat Arun has long been acknowledged for its historical importance. First known as Wat Bang Makok and later Wat Makok under King Taksin before it later transformed to Wat Chaeng before receiving its current royal designation: Wat Arun. Wat Arun was home to an Emerald Buddha which stood as testament to its significance, until 2016. At that point it was moved over to Wat Phra Kaew as another mark of pride for this temple. Rama II oversaw several restoration and expansion projects, which culminated in 1851 when Rama III completed construction of his main prang. Subsequent restoration work took place under Rama V and, from 2013-17, extensive repairs to broken tiles and lime plaster to ensure its continued beauty for future generations were carried out. Visitors should experience its incredible central prang, which stands between 668 meters to 886 meters high with stunning porcelain decorations at its base. Architectural Marvel Four smaller prang structures have also been strategically arranged around this central structure in order to add even greater grandeur. Decoration of these vessels includes intricate arrangements of porcelain shards and shells as well as figures depicting Chinese soldiers or animals that create breathtaking formations. Mount Meru can be easily symbolized with its iconic central prang, serving as an auspicious emblem and paying homage to Wind gods from surrounding ones. Wat Arun Temple offers much more than meets the eye; in its complex lies an ordination hall featuring an exquisite Buddha image, charming pavilions with Chinese architectural influences and captivating murals from Rama V's rule. Wat Arun expresses its spiritual philosophy through three symbolic levels on its central prang, representing three realms of existence and giving this stunning structure depth and dimension. Reached via Chao Phraya River ferries between 8 am and 6 pm daily admission costs 200 Baht; admission for guests outside those hours costs extra. Wat Arun Ratchatharam can be found directly across from Wat Pho on Thon Buri Island on the Chao Phraya River's Thap Buri side, with roots dating all the way back to Ayutthaya period when it was known by another name - Wat Chaeng. Contact 02 891 2185 with inquiries for further inquiries regarding Wat Arun Ratchatharam. In accordance with King Rama II's direction, significant refurbishments took place and its current name of Wat Arun Ratchatharam emerged as its result. King Rama III made an essential contribution to temple development with his construction of an iconic 82 meter high prang that eventually was completed under King Rama IV and is today known as Wat Arun Ratchawararam. Wat Arun is an iconic royal temple known for its exquisite architecture and intricate detailing; once home of Vientiane's Emerald Buddha. A treasure in Bangkok history, visiting Wat Arun offers visitors an engaging blend of art, spirituality, history and culture that's well worth their while.