Bangkok - Wat Arun

Day 2 PM

It's almost 5 p.m. by the time I reached Wat Arun. Sunset is around 6 to 7 p.m. in Bangkok, thus am at the right time to catch the "golden" moment :p

Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of the Dawn, is one of the best known landmark in Bangkok. Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in Thonburi, the easiest and common way to get to Wat Arun is via the ferry or boat.

.

Wat Arun from the opposite bank of the river

.

Wat Arun taken from a nearer distance

.

The temple consists of a massive elongated prang (Khmer-style tower) and is surrounded by four smaller prangs, which are decorated by bits of porcelain.

.

The main, also central prang

Bits of porcelain arranged into intricate patterns on the prangs

.

It is possible to walk a limited way up the very steep stairs of the main prang, which gives you a reasonable view of the Chao Phraya River. Being an acrophobic, I only walked up not even mi-way, merely had a little view of the Chao Phraya River.

.

.

The staircase of the main prang

.

.

Figures of demons "carrying" the prang

Exquisite decoration on the chedi
.

.

Looking up the main prang

.

.
Buildings in the compound of Wat Arun.

Some of them are used as small museum and library.

.

Wat Arun is said best seen from the opposite bank of the river. Well, this is pretty true, especially if you want to get a good shot of sunset. Unfortunately, did not thought of this when I was there ... and thus miss the good shot :p

.

.

Sunset shot taken at Wat Arun "side"

.

Getting there :

Due to its location, the best, easiest and most common way is to take the ferry / boat to get to Wat Arun. From the Tha Tien Pier, take a boat to cross the river to the other side of the river where Wat Arun is located. Per boat ride only costs 3 Baht.

.

Entrance fee :

50 Baht

.

Next ~ Hard Rock Café Bangkok :)

.