Wat Arun

Greet the day at the 'Temple of the Dawn'
Word to the wise: The stairs to the top of the temple—where there are spectacular views over the Chao Phraya River—become a hazard when wet, so take care.

This beloved Bangkok icon is one of the city's most popular images for postcards and souvenirs. Construction of the Khmer-style temple began during the Ayuttayha kingdom period (1350-1767), and the building has since been exquisitely and intricately decorated with seashells and porcelain that was once used as ballasts on ships from China.
If you can, try to make your trip to Wat Arun coincide with sunset or sunrise: the sight of the sun disappearing or appearing from behind this imposing structure, with the Chao Phraya River in the foreground, is unforgettable. The easiest way to approach the site is by local boat from Pier 8 on the eastern side of Chao Phraya River. One-way tickets cost THB 3 and the trip takes about four minutes.