Wat Arun
A breathtaking riverside temple adorned with colorful mosaics, Wat Arun is an iconic Bangkok landmark offering stunning architecture and panoramic vie...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid heat & crowds
Wat Arun
Best Time
Avoid heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking riverside temple adorned with colorful mosaics, Wat Arun is an iconic Bangkok landmark offering stunning architecture and panoramic views.
"Visitors rave about the intricate details and the chance to climb the prang for unforgettable city and river views."
🎯 Arrive at Opening
Beat the heat and crowds by arriving right when Wat Arun opens. Less people, less sweat!
🚢 Use the River Ferry
Super cheap and easy way to get here from other attractions. Look for the tourist ferry line!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Central Prang
Main spire
Marvel at the intricate, colorful porcelain tile mosaics covering this iconic central spire. It's a true masterpiece!
Ornate Staircases
Base of the prang
Climb the steep, tiled staircases for stunning river views and a closer look at the detailed craftsmanship.
Temple Grounds
Surrounding area
Wander through the temple complex, admiring smaller stupas and Buddha images scattered throughout the serene grounds.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
River Access is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive at Opening
Beat the heat and crowds by arriving right when Wat Arun opens. Less people, less sweat!
🚢 Use the River Ferry
Super cheap and easy way to get here from other attractions. Look for the tourist ferry line!
📸 Rent Thai Costumes
Dress up for amazing photos! Many shops nearby offer rentals for that perfect cultural shot. 
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs, so comfortable footwear is a must.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive at Opening
Beat the heat and crowds by arriving right when Wat Arun opens. Less people, less sweat!
🚢 Use the River Ferry
Super cheap and easy way to get here from other attractions. Look for the tourist ferry line!
📸 Rent Thai Costumes
Dress up for amazing photos! Many shops nearby offer rentals for that perfect cultural shot.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs, so comfortable footwear is a must.
💰 Watch for Scams
Be wary of unsolicited offers for tours or transport. Stick to official ticket counters and ferries.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Wat Arun is celebrated for its stunning, mosaic-covered central spire and its picturesque riverside location. Visitors love the intricate details and the opportunity to climb the prang for panoramic views. While crowds can be significant, especially later in the day, many find the experience enhanced by renting traditional Thai costumes for photos.
"An absolutely remarkable cultural landmark. The central prang is intricately decorated and beautifully reflects the sunlight, creating a striking impression from both near and far. Standing by the river, it is not only a masterpiece of Thai craftsmanship but also a place where the city slows down and breathes. Watching the dawn from Wat Arun is an experience that stays with you long after you leave. There are rental shops around Wat Arun and also near the ferry piers, so you can easily dress up just for your visit and photos."
Serena C
"This temple houses the ashes of Thailand’s first King Rama.
The boat ride along the river to the temple is enjoyable. You can feed the big catfish with bread sold on the boat for just 20 baht.
There isn’t a whole lot to see, and it’s not the most visually stunning temple, but it becomes the perfect photo spot if you rent traditional Thai clothing, make up and take pictures around the grounds. It’ll make for a unique and memorable souvenir.
If you visit, make sure to rent the Thai traditional outfit and take photos on-site. Otherwise, it’s just an average photo spot.
There’s also a small market nearby selling souvenirs, drinks, snacks, and ice cream, and they accept foreign currencies in addition to Thai baht."
Ibob Pramadi
"In Bangkok, this is one of the main attractions. Though it can be less crowded in the morning and evening, it is usually packed. This temple is really lovely and distinctive. The opportunity to undertake a traditional Thai picture session is one of the highlights. You can rent them out and wear for only 250 TBH. They also insist on hiring a photographer, but try to negotiate and lower the prices. Whether bathed in the rose‑gold hues of dawn, the fiery blaze of sunset, or the golden floodlights of night, Wat Arun remains a testament to Thailand’s rich cultural heritage—an enduring symbol of renewal and the timeless allure of the “Temple of Dawn.”"
Sandalu Karunasena
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way is by taking the Chao Phraya River express boat. The tourist ferry stops at Wat Arun pier, making it super easy to access from other popular spots like Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. You can also take the MRT to Sanam Chai station and walk a short distance. +1
Yes, there's a direct ferry service that crosses the Chao Phraya River between Wat Pho and Wat Arun. It's a quick and scenic ride, perfect for hopping between these two iconic temples. +1
Be cautious of people offering unsolicited boat tours or transport outside the main attractions. Stick to official ticket booths and reputable ferry services. The MRT to Sanam Chai station is a reliable way to get there without dealing with potential scams.
While they are in the same vicinity, walking directly from the Grand Palace to Wat Arun isn't the most practical. It's much easier and faster to take a short ferry ride across the river.
The closest MRT station is Sanam Chai. From there, it's a pleasant walk south to the temple entrance. This is a great option if you're coming from other parts of the city via the MRT.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee for Wat Arun is typically around 100 Thai Baht for foreigners. It's a small price for such an iconic landmark.
Wat Arun is generally open daily from around 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It's best to arrive early to avoid the crowds and the heat.
No, you don't need to book tickets in advance for Wat Arun. You can purchase them upon arrival at the entrance.
Yes, there is a dress code. You need to dress respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees. Avoid revealing clothing.
You can explore the grounds and climb the steep central prang. While there isn't extensive 'inside' space in the way you might imagine a museum, the climb up the prang offers incredible views and a close-up look at the detailed architecture.
📸 📸 Photography & Dress
There are numerous shops along the street leading to Wat Arun that offer Thai costume rentals. Popular options include @mahasanethaicostume and @lovelyshopwatarun, which are frequently mentioned by visitors.
Many visitors find renting a Thai costume to be a fun and worthwhile experience for unique photos with the temple as a backdrop. It's a popular activity that adds a special touch to your visit.
The golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photos. However, early morning is best for avoiding crowds in your shots.
You must wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees out of respect for the temple. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are recommended due to the heat.
Yes, you can find photographers offering their services near Wat Arun, especially if you rent a costume. Be sure to agree on a price beforehand.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Families with Kids
Budget Travelers
Photography Enthusiasts
+3 To capture the temple without crowds, aim for an early morning visit. The view from across the river at sunset is also iconic and highly recommended for photographers. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Prang: A Masterpiece of Design
Experiencing Wat Arun: Beyond the Views
Cultural Immersion: Thai Costumes and Photography
+3 It's a fun way to make your visit even more special, and many creators on TikTok and Instagram have shared their experiences doing this. Remember to check the dress code for the temple itself, ensuring your rented costume is appropriate for entry. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit