Is Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) (Thailand) Worth Visiting?
Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is absolutely worth visiting! This iconic temple is famous for its stunning architecture, intricate detailing, and prime location on the Chao Phraya River. Its popularity stems from its historical significance and the breathtaking views it offers, especially at sunrise and sunset.
What makes Wat Arun so appealing to tourists is all about its unique design, adorned with colourful porcelain and seashells. The temple's towering prangs create a mesmerising silhouette against the Bangkok skyline, making it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Thailand.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) (Thailand)
Planning your visit to Wat Arun? Knowing the best time to visit will ensure you have a memorable experience. Here’s a quick guide to help you plan your trip.
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to see Wat Arun is early in the morning (8:00 AM - 10:00 AM) or late in the afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM) to avoid the midday heat and the largest crowds. The light is also particularly beautiful during these times, perfect for photos.
- Busiest Times: Weekends and public holidays tend to be busier. If possible, visit on a weekday to enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Estimated Visit Duration: Allow approximately 2-3 hours to fully explore the temple grounds and appreciate its beauty.
Location Details about Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) (Thailand)
Knowing where Wat Arun is located and how accessible it is can make your visit much smoother. Here’s what you need to know about its location.
- Address: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok 10600, Thailand.
- Parking Availability: Limited parking is available near the temple. It's advisable to use public transport or ride-hailing services to avoid parking hassles.
- Wheelchair Accessibility: While the main temple grounds are accessible, some areas with stairs and uneven surfaces may be challenging for wheelchair users.
How Much to Enter / Visit Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) (Thailand)
Understanding the entry fees and where to purchase tickets is essential for planning your visit to Wat Arun. Here’s a breakdown of the costs.
- Tickets: The entrance fee to Wat Arun is 100 Baht per person.
- Pricing Variations: The price is the same for both weekdays and weekends. There are no separate prices for adults and children.
- Where to Buy: Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance of the temple.
How To Go to Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) (Thailand)
Getting to Wat Arun is relatively straightforward with various transportation options available. Here’s how to go to this magnificent temple.
- MRT: Take the MRT to Itsaraphap Station (BL31). From there, you can take a taxi or a short walk to the river pier. Then, take a cross-river ferry to Wat Arun.
- Airport Routes: From Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang Airport (DMK), take the Airport Rail Link or a taxi to a central pier like Sathorn Pier. From Sathorn Pier, take a Chao Phraya Express Boat to Wat Arun Pier.
- Public Transport Tips: The Chao Phraya Express Boat is a scenic and convenient way to reach Wat Arun. Ensure you have small denominations of Thai Baht for the boat fare. Ride Hailing is also a convenient option for getting to the piers.
Things To Do in or near the Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Wat Arun and its surroundings offer a plethora of activities and attractions to explore. Here are some nearby attractions and nearby activities to make the most of your visit.
- Activities in Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn):
- Climb the central prang for panoramic views of the Chao Phraya River and Bangkok.
- Admire the intricate porcelain decorations and architectural details.
- Visit the Ordination Hall and see the principal Buddha image.
- Take photos of the temple at sunrise or sunset for stunning visuals.
- Explore the temple grounds and learn about its history.
- Activities nearby Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn):
- Visit Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) and get a traditional Thai massage.
- Explore the Grand Palace, the former royal residence.
- Take a longtail boat tour along the Chao Phraya River.
- Wander through the vibrant Pak Khlong Talat (Flower Market).
- Enjoy the street food and cultural experiences in the surrounding neighbourhoods.
Looking for places of interest in Thailand? See Traveloka’s best deals on Things to Do in Thailand!
Nearby MRT Station & Bus Stops near the Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) Thailand
Navigating the public transport system around Wat Arun is easy with several MRT stations and bus stops nearby. Here’s what you need to know about the MRT nearby and nearby bus station.
- Closest MRT Station: Itsaraphap Station (BL31) is the nearest MRT station. From there, you can take a taxi or walk to the Chao Phraya River and take a ferry to Wat Arun. The distance from the station to the river is approximately 1.5-2 km.
- Nearby Bus Stops: Several bus stops are located along Thanon Arun Amarin, the main road near Wat Arun. Bus numbers 57, 177, and 710 pass through this area.
- Transport Card Info: The MRT uses a contactless card system. You can purchase a single journey ticket or a stored value card for multiple trips. For the bus, you can pay in cash or use a stored value card.
Tips To Go to Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) (Thailand) and Safety Tips
Planning a trip to Wat Arun? Here are some essential tips and safety guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit. Consider these tourist safety tips for a worry-free experience.
- What to Bring:
- Wear respectful clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
- Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring small denominations of Thai Baht for transportation and small purchases.
- Tourist Safety Tips:
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
- Avoid accepting unsolicited offers from strangers.
- Stay hydrated and take breaks in shaded areas.
- Be cautious when climbing the steep steps of the prangs.
- Respect the local culture and customs.
Best Hotel Area in Thailand
Choosing the right area to stay in Thailand can significantly enhance your travel experience. Here are some of the best areas to stay, each offering unique attractions and experiences.
- Bangkok Riverside: Suitable for those who want to be close to historical sites, cultural attractions, and enjoy river views.
- Sukhumvit, Bangkok: Ideal for shoppers, foodies, and those looking for vibrant nightlife.
- Old City, Chiang Mai: Perfect for history buffs and those seeking a relaxed, cultural atmosphere.
- Patong Beach, Phuket: Great for beach lovers and party-goers.
- Railay Beach, Krabi: Best for rock climbers, beach enthusiasts, and those seeking a secluded paradise.
Where to Eat Inside or near Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) (Thailand)
Exploring the culinary scene around Wat Arun is a must for any visitor. Here are some of the best Thai food options, from cafes and restaurants to local street food.
- Cafes/Restaurants:
- The Deck by Arun Residence: Offers stunning views of Wat Arun along with delicious Thai and international cuisine.
- Eat Sight Story Deck: A charming restaurant with a riverside terrace, serving a variety of Thai dishes.
- Rooftop Bar at Sala Rattanakosin: Enjoy cocktails and light bites with panoramic views of Wat Arun.
- Local Street Food:
- Pad Thai: A classic Thai noodle dish stir-fried with tofu, shrimp, and peanuts.
- Mango Sticky Rice: Sweet sticky rice served with fresh mango slices and coconut milk.
- Boat Noodles (Kuay Teow Reua): A flavorful noodle soup traditionally sold from boats along the canals.
Shopping Places near Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) (Bangkok Riverside)
If you're looking to indulge in some retail therapy near Wat Arun, there are several shopping options available. Here are some shopping mall nearby and other shopping destinations in the area.
- Iconsiam: A large shopping mall on the Chao Phraya River, featuring luxury brands, restaurants, and entertainment options.
- Asiatique The Riverfront: A night market with a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment, located along the river.
- CentralWorld: One of the largest shopping malls in Southeast Asia, offering a vast selection of fashion, electronics, and dining options.
Best Hotels to Stay near Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) (Thailand)
Finding the perfect place to stay near Wat Arun can enhance your travel experience. Here are some of the best accommodation options in the area.
- Riva Arun Bangkok: A boutique hotel offering stunning views of Wat Arun and comfortable accommodations.
- Sala Rattanakosin Bangkok: A stylish hotel with a rooftop bar and restaurant, providing excellent views of the temple.
- Arun Residence: A charming hotel with a riverside restaurant, offering a unique and memorable stay.
Looking for where to stay in Thailand? See Traveloka’s last minute hotel deals on Cheap Hotels in Thailand!
Hotels with Swimming Pools near Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Relax and unwind after a day of exploring by staying at a hotel with a swimming pool. Here are some hotels with swimming pools near Wat Arun.
- AVANI+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel: Offers a stunning infinity pool with panoramic views of the Chao Phraya River.
- The Siam Hotel: A luxurious hotel with a beautiful riverside pool and exceptional service.
- Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok: An iconic hotel with a large outdoor pool and a tranquil atmosphere.
Hotels with Parking near Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
If you're driving in Bangkok, finding a hotel with parking is essential. Here are some hotels with parking near Wat Arun.
- Ibis Styles Bangkok Riverside: Offers convenient parking facilities and comfortable accommodations.
- Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers: Provides ample parking space and luxurious amenities.
- Millennium Hilton Bangkok: Features secure parking and easy access to the city's attractions.
Searching for a place to stay in Thailand? Explore top hotels in popular destinations: Best Hotels in Bangkok | Best Hotels in Phuket | Best Hotels in Pattaya | Best Hotels in Chiang Mai | Best Hotels in Krabi | Best Hotels in Koh Samui
Best Hotels near Thailand Airport
For travellers needing convenient access to Thailand's airports, several hotels offer comfortable accommodations and easy transportation. Here are some of the best hotels close to the airport.
Average Room Rate hotels near Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Planning your budget for accommodation near Wat Arun? The average room rate can vary depending on the hotel and time of year. It's always a good idea to check Traveloka for the latest prices and deals.
Keep an eye out for hotel discount and hotel promo offers to save on your stay. New users can often take advantage of special promotions. Use the promo code BOOKTRAVELOKA to get up to 8% OFF your booking!
Looking for more Thailand hotel discounts? Check out Traveloka’s Last Minute Hotel Deals and save on your stay!
Conclusion
Visiting Wat Arun is an unforgettable experience, and booking your trip through Traveloka ensures a seamless and affordable journey. With Traveloka, you can easily find cheap hotels nearby and affordable hotels nearby, making your stay in Thailand both enjoyable and budget-friendly.
Traveloka offers a wide range of options, from hotels near the airport to accommodations in the heart of Bangkok. You can compare prices, read reviews, and book with confidence, knowing you're getting the best deal. Plus, with exclusive promotions and discounts, Traveloka makes it easier than ever to explore the beauty of Thailand.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the magic of Wat Arun. Book Cheap Hotels in Thailand and Cheap Hotels Nearby with Traveloka today! And while you're at it, why not Book Cheap Air Tickets to Thailand too? Your Thai adventure awaits!