Wat Arun is translated as the temple of dawn. Maybe King Taksin came riding in here on a morning when he was determined to reorganise his army and establish a new capital after the old one, Ayuthaya was sacked by the Burmese in 1767.

This west side of the river Chao Phraya(often translated as the river of kings, is called Thonburi and was the capital of Siam from 1767-1782 when Rama I moved to the east side and we got Krungthep, the city of angels.

This temple is a part of the treasury that Bangkok hosts. It is a Khmer-styled prang, a temple tower covered in Chinese porcelain. At this spot, Thailand meets Cambodia and China most gracefully.

Furthermore, it was once allowed to climb the 66 meter tall prang to the top for scenic views of the river life and Bangkok. But, now you can only climb it partly, but it is still worth the visit.

Getting to Wat Arun

Take the BTS sky train and jump on a riverboat from Saphan Thaksin(20-30 baht) or maybe Ta-Chang pier, by the Grand Palace and get off at Wat Arun. Moreover, remember to dress according to temple etiquette. The ticket price is 100 baht for foreigners including a bottle of water. Then, boat tickets can be bought from staff on the Wat Arun pier when you leave .

Great view at sunset and evening

Lastly, for great scenery and views at sunset reserve a seat at a bar or restaurant on the east bank of Chao Phraya, and enjoy a sundowner and the illuminated tower at night. One good place is Arun View.