Wat Arun – Beautiful temple in Bangkok, a brilliant spiritual destination on the Chao Phraya River

When mentioning beautiful temples in Bangkok, it is impossible not to mention Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn - a prominent symbol of the Thai capital. Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the temple possesses a magnificent beauty at dawn and is more brilliant than ever at sunset. This is not only a poetic place to watch the sunrise in Thailand, but also a spiritual destination in Bangkok with a strong historical and unique architectural mark.

The Historical Journey of Binh Minh Pagoda – From Ancient Pagoda to National Spiritual Symbol

The magnificent Wat Arun reflects in the golden dawn light – A memorable scene for every visitor. (Photo: Collected)

Wat Arun was built during the Ayutthaya period (17th century), originally named Wat Makok, later renamed Wat Arun Ratchawararam after the Hindu sun god Aruna. The temple used to house the Emerald Buddha before it was moved to Wat Phra Kaew.

Today, the Temple of Dawn is not only a beautiful temple in Bangkok , but also a place of spiritual convergence, attracting thousands of believers and tourists to make pilgrimages, pray and worship. The riverside location of Wat Arun further enhances its majesty and sacredness, making it a spiritual destination in Bangkok that cannot be missed on your journey to explore Thailand .

Wat Arun Architecture – Beautiful temple in Bangkok with ancient and ornate beauty

Unique ceramic prang architecture – The highlight that makes this beautiful temple in Bangkok famous. (Photo: Collected)

One of the reasons why Wat Arun consistently ranks at the top of the list of beautiful temples in Bangkok is its ancient Khmer architecture mixed with exquisite Thai decoration. The central spire, more than 70 meters high, called the prang, is covered with millions of colorful Chinese ceramic pieces – reflecting the sunlight to create a mesmerizing brilliance.

Surrounding the prang are four smaller satellite towers, each with elaborate carvings of Hindu gods and beasts. When sunlight hits the ceramic surfaces, the pagoda glows as if the sun itself is waking up – which is why Wat Arun is known as the “temple of the dawn”.

Wat Arun – A spiritual destination in Bangkok that attracts both believers and tourists

Local people pray in the main hall of Wat Arun – Demonstrating the depth of Thai spiritual culture. (Photo: Collected)

Not only attractive for its architecture, Wat Arun is also one of the spiritual destinations in Bangkok that is highly admired by locals. On major holidays such as Songkran or Buddhist full moon days, hundreds of people flock here to burn incense, meditate and chant.

Inside the temple grounds, a golden Buddha statue shines in the peaceful atmosphere. The temple bells echo across the Chao Phraya River, reminding visitors to stop, listen and find peace in their souls. Whether you are a Buddhist or just a tourist , this place brings a sense of sacredness and peace that is hard to match anywhere else in Bangkok.

Wat Arun – A mesmerizing sunrise viewing spot in Thailand along the Chao Phraya River

Dawn covers Wat Arun in golden color seen from boat – A magical moment of Bangkok. (Photo: Collected)

If you are looking for a place to watch the sunrise in Thailand that is both beautiful and culturally rich, Wat Arun is the perfect choice. The time from 5:30 to 6:30 am is when the first rays of the day shine on the prang tower, making the entire temple glow with a brilliant orange-yellow color - an unforgettable visual experience for anyone.

You can choose to stand on the opposite bank (Wat Pho side) or take a boat on the river to get the most ideal view. This is also the time when professional photographers and tourists hunt for the best photos of one of the beautiful temples in Bangkok - a place that has both artistic value and is a symbol of new life starting every day.

Experience visiting Binh Minh Pagoda

Although it is called the Temple of Dawn, the most spectacular view of this sparkling monument can be seen from the east side of the river at sunset. (Photo: Collected)

• Opening hours: 8:00 – 18:00 daily
• Entrance fee: About 100 baht/person
• Dress: Formal wear, no shorts, short skirts, off-shoulder shirts
• Getting there: Take the ferry from Tha Tien Pier (near Wat Pho) to the other side of the river, which takes only 3–5 minutes and costs 5 baht.

If you visit Bangkok during the summer, visit Wat Arun early in the morning to enjoy the cool breeze, gentle sunlight, and quiet spiritual atmosphere before the city becomes bustling.

Wat Arun – Temple of Dawn is not only a beautiful temple in Bangkok but also a spiritual destination in Bangkok rich in culture and history. With its majestic architecture, poetic riverside location and magical sunrise, this place deserves to be the most worth-experienced sunrise viewing spot in Thailand on your journey of spiritual tourism and discovery of Bangkok .

Source : https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/wat-arun-chua-dep-o-bangkok-diem-den-tam-linh-ben-song-chao-phraya-v17319.aspx