One of the most visited temples in Thailand is the Temple of the Dawn known as Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan or Wat Arun for short. It is located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in Thonburi, Bangkok, almost opposite Wat Po and the Grand Palace. (See map below for exact location) Although it is used as a Buddhist Temple, it is actually named after the Hindu god Aruna.

The temple was built in the 17th century during the Ayutthaya Period but its spires (Prang) were added in the 19th century by King Rama II. It has since undergone many renovations, the latest was in 2013 to 2017. King Taksin built his palace near the temple. During his reign, it was called Wat Chaeng and the name is still being used by the local people.

How to go there
Take the ferry boat from anywhere along the Chao Phraya River. Depending on your itinerary, the transport fee ranges from 50 to 180 baht.

Photo above is credited to Lana Tan

Photo by BerryJ https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=51325743