THAILAND: Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
When you visit Bangkok, Thailand, don't you dare miss one of the most recognizable landmarks in Bangkok, Thailand -The Wat Arun (วัดอรุณ), known locally as Wat Chaeng. It is situated on the west (Thonburi) bank of the Chao Phraya River, the side opposite the bank where the Grand Palace, Wat Phrakaew (Emerald Buddha Temple), Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) are located.
It is otherwise known as the Temple of Dawn because the belief is that after fighting his way out of Ayutthaya, which was besieged by a Burmese Army at that time, King Taksin the Great (King of Thonburi kingdom) arrived at this temple just as dawn was breaking. He later had this temple renovated and renamed as Wat Chaeng (the Temple of Dawn).
Up close with the help of zoom lens you could see that the temple is decorated with intricate mosaic patterns, intricate designs and carvings on the walls.
Operating Hours: 08:00 a.m. to 05:30 p.m.
Location: Located on the west side of Chao Praya River (opposite Tha Thien Pier)
It is otherwise known as the Temple of Dawn because the belief is that after fighting his way out of Ayutthaya, which was besieged by a Burmese Army at that time, King Taksin the Great (King of Thonburi kingdom) arrived at this temple just as dawn was breaking. He later had this temple renovated and renamed as Wat Chaeng (the Temple of Dawn).
Although known as the Temple of Dawn, it is also stunning at sunset especially when lit up at night just like in the pictures above. It has an imposing spire over 70 metres high, beautifully decorated with tiny pieces of coloured glass and Chinese porcelain placed delicately into intricate patterns. I was so amazed at the beautiful gleaming golden temple that I can't stop myself from taking photos.
Operating Hours: 08:00 a.m. to 05:30 p.m.
Location: Located on the west side of Chao Praya River (opposite Tha Thien Pier)
Photography by Cha Sy
