Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
The prang of Wat Arun on the bank of Ch Phraya
River is one of Bangkok 's world-famous landmarks. From a
French map of Thonburi made in the reign of King Narai it
can be seen that the temple existed when Ayutthaya was Siam
's capital. The temple was formerly known as Wat Makok, and
when King Taksin built his palace, he ordered the temple to
be annexed to it. The king restored it and renamed it "Wat
Jaeng". It was restored again by King Rama II, and renamed
"Wat Arunratchatharam". King Rama IV later changed
the name to "Wat Arunratchawararam"
Ubosot : This is an
outstanding example of Rama II period architecture in late
Ayutthaya style. It has a two-tiered roof with glazed ceramics,
and pediments decorated with wooden carvings depicting Warunthep.
The interior murals were painted during the Third and Fifth
Reigns. Phra Phutthathammitsararatchalokthatdilok,the principal
Buddha image in the Subduing Mara posture, was cast in the
reign of King Rama II and contains relics of King Rama II.
Prang: This brick stupa is decorated with glazed pottery fragments
in flower and leaf designs and other Thai patterns. The top
is gilded and adorned with the noppasul.
Pra Rabiengkote : This corridor is in placeof
the kampaeng kaeo found in most other tempi It has a tiled
roof with doors opening onto f directions. Inside are 120
Buddha images in Subduing Mara posture.
Mondop of the Buddha's Footprint
: A chapel surmounted by a spire, this stands between the
ubosot and the wihan. It was built during the Third Reign
and houses a copy of the footprint of the Budd a carved in
Kwantong stone and decorated with colourful porcelain.
Ogre Statues : Guarding at
the gate are two ogre (yaksha). The white yaksha is Sahassadecha
and i green partner Thossakun, the villain of the Ramakien,
the Thai version of the Ramayana epic.
The temple has flourished throughout the
Ratta akosin period. The beauty of the architecture and t
e fine craftsmanship declare its status as a temp - of the
first grade and one of the most outstanding temples of Thailand.
This famous Chao Phraya riverbank landmark diagonally
opposite the Grand Palace, is best known for a porcelain encrusted
79 metre central pagoda which sparkles in the sun. The temple
can be reached either by Arun Amarin Road or by boat from
Tha Tian Pier near Wat Pho.
How to get there
Bus Routes : 19, 57, 83
Opening Hour : Daily 8 am-4 pm
Admission Fee : THB 20-nett/person
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