Overview:

Wat Arun, or the Temple of Dawn, is an iconic landmark in Bangkok, Thailand. Construction started on the temple in the early 1700s, and it has since become one of the most recognised and beloved sites in the city. Located along the banks of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun is one of the oldest surviving temples in Bangkok. Its famous spire stands at over 70 metres tall and dominates the river skyline. The temple is an important part of Thai history and culture, and it remains a popular tourist destination. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Thailand
Prominent Features:

• Architecture: The architecture is based on the Khmer and Thai-style designs seen in the other monuments around the country. The temple is built of stone and consists of multiple tiers of stairs, ornate pillars, gilded pagodas, statues, and murals. • Temple of Dawn: Wat Arun is sometimes referred to as the Temple of Dawn, and is said to provide stunning views of the Bangkok sunset and skyline from the top of its towers. • Dedicated to: The temple is dedicated to Aruna, the Hindu God of Dawn. • Background: Built on the western bank of the Chao Phraya river, Wat Arun predates Bangkok’s founding in 1782 and is believed to have been constructed in the early 19th century. The main pagoda of the temple is 82 meters tall and is the most recognizable structure in Bangkok, providing a stunning view of the city from across the river. This national monument of Thailand portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Wat Arun in Bangkok is a temple complex of about 113 km east of Bangkok, in the city of Thonburi along the Chao Phraya river. It is one of the most famous landmarks in Thailand, and its name translates to “Temple of Dawn” in Thai. The temple complex has been around in some form since ancient times and has been through many changes in its long history. The original temple complex was built during the Ayutthaya Kingdom (1351-1767), when the river served as an important trade route from the sea to the capital. The temple’s main structure is the spire-like "Prang", which stands at about 86 meters tall, making it one of the tallest religious complexes of its kind. Several renovations have been made over the centuries, and many of the original sculptures and paintings have been destroyed by war. After the fall of the Ayutthaya kingdom, Thonburi became a military base of the Chakri Dynasty and the temple complex was heavily damaged by General Taksin army during the battles with the Burmese. During the start of the 19th century, the site was rebuilt and expanded by King Rama II, who added a beautiful Buddha statue and hoisted the Thai national flag above the Prang. King Rama III (1824-1851) also led some important renovations. At the turn of the century, the Wat Arun complex was once again destroyed by a fire, which left only the Prang and two chedis standing. However, extensive renovations have been conducted in the last century, leading to the stunning complex we see today. The complex includes four spires, surrounding a central Khmer-style prang. Intricate carvings and statues decorate the exterior walls and there is a sizable Buddha statue inside the temple. Today, Wat Arun is a popular tourist attraction, attracting thousands of visitors each year who come to admire its beauty and explore its fascinating history. You must visit one of these historical places in Thailand on your Thailand tour

Interesting facts:

1. Wat Arun is a Buddhist temple located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. 2. Its name means “Temple of Dawn” and it is one of the landmarks of Bangkok. 3. The main landmark of the temple is the central prang (spire) which is nearly 82 meters tall. 4. It is decorated with colorful Chinese porcelain pieces which were presented by a Chinese trading ship in the early 19th century. 5. The central prang contains a shrine dedicated to God Indra riding an elephant. 6. The temple is a landmark in Chinese and Japanese movies and dramas. 7. Wat Arun is almost 200 years old and is one of the most visited tourist sites in Bangkok. Visit one of the famous monuments of Thailand with your friends and family.