If you are headed to Thailand's
metropolitan capital Bangkok, visiting one of the world's oldest, most sacred
temples should never be missed. Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan, or
also known as the 'Temple of Dawn', is one of Thailand's most magnificent
temples that holds its very own originality behind its name that refers to the
beauty of the rising sun and its orange colored rays. Further classified as one
of the top royal temples in Thailand, the temple itself dates from the period
of Ayutthaya and was named by King Rama IV.
Located in the Bangkok Yai district, specifically on the Thonburi west
bank of the Chao Phraya river, Wat Arun is among the most famous landmarks, the
dream destination for flourishing tourists and photographers.
Although Wat Arun Ratchawararam
Ratchawaramahawihan is surrounded by various other temples and tourist
attractions like those of the Grand Palace, Wat Phrakaew Morakot, Wat Pho, and
Wat Kalayanamit, Wat Arun is among Thailand's most divine and sacred temples
that house images of Buddha, oldest sculptures in Thai history, and authentic
structures that will definitely catch the eyes of world's pioneers, travelers,
and backpackers.
Explore Thailand's Panoramic Shot of The Temple of Dawn
Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan lies among Bangkok's most visited destinations surrounded by various attractions and Thailand's most visited river, the Chao Phraya river where you can cruise the night, let the water and the wind witness the glamour, and the amazing time in Thailand. Wat Arun not only is attractive for its oldest linings of sacred in-temple statues and detailed architecture, for its main attraction is the Central Prang or is often referred to as 'Phra Prang Wat Arun Mahawihan' or simply 'Phra Prang'. Phra Prang symbolizes 'Khao Phra Su Meru' or otherwise shortly known as the 'Mount Meru' and is surrounded by mondops along with miniscule prangs that are satellite shaped which marked the Central Prang's unique anatomy.
Made up of colorful Chinese and Benjarong porcelain
pieces, Phra Prang highlights its uniqueness with surrounding pavilions that
display levels and rounds of Buddha images, telling stories and the significant
occurrences that have happened in Buddha's life. The Central Prang and its
surrounding galleries feature numbers of sacred figures which includes Indra
sitting on a three-headed elephant, a sacred creature from Thai literature and
classics that caught the eyes of international tourists and visitors from all
parts of the world. Going through the galleries nearby the Central Prang will
enable you to see clearly the enormous Chao Phraya river, an excellent scenery
to take a best panoramic shot- be it night or day.
Apart from the traditional, sacred
monuments, figures, and in-temple structures, Wat Arun Ratchawararam
Ratchawaramahawihan has well-placed sculptures that reflect the sacred beauty
of Buddhism, Thailand's traditions, and the old culture and lifestyles of the
Thais living in the kingdom of Ayutthaya. One of the well-known structures in
Wat Arun is the Ordination Hall or as well known as the 'Ubosot'. To visit the
Ubosot, make sure to check the opening hours which are from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm
while the temple closes at around 5:30 pm. The Ubosot is considered as one of
the main highlights in Wat Arun as it houses a dominant
image of Buddha and is surrounded by galleries which display countless images of Buddha. It is also one of the best structures where the images were designed by King Rama II who was deeply emerged in arts and literature. As it closes earlier than the temple closes for visits and tours, it is recommended for anyone who would like to take a wonderful look around and inside the Ubosot to come early and don't forget the cameras!
It is impossible not to mention other
eye-catching, yet divine figures that guard the entrance of the Ubosot or the
Ordination Hall. The giants are referred to as 'Yaks' from Thailand's
literature classics called 'Ramakien' where one of the giants is known as
'Sahassa Deja', who has a white, porcelain skin tone, and the other at the
other side of the entrance named 'Thotsakan' who owns an emerald green skin
color. As these two characters are from the famous literature 'Ramakien' or its
other name 'Ramayana', many find it a divine spot to take a deep breath in, say
a few voiceless prayers, and take quality shots of panoramic and HD photos to
witness the most memorable visit to Thailand's top cultural destination.
Last but not the least, Wat Arun
Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan has a temple complex cloister which contains
over 100 images of Buddha, which is also one of the most interesting structures
you can take a good look at, snap quality photos, and bring some memory home.
Buddha's footprint, though, is housed at a mondop or otherwise known as a
pavilion at the other part of the temple where you can once again, explore and
snap some good shots.
Around Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan
If Wat Arun isn't enough for your
excitement and bliss, destinations surrounding Wat Arun will get you inspired.
Nearby attractions feature the Chao Phraya river, where night cruises will take
you through the best experience with quality, riverside dines and relaxing atmosphere
you only find here in Bangkok. Cruising along the Chao Phraya river at night
highlights Wat Arun's night scenery, its mesmerizing beauty as Bangkok's most
iconic temples as witnessed by the Central Prang's visibility that rises over
the river. Getting to Wat Arun by a cab or a taxi isn't the only way. Hopping
on the Chao Phraya river boat on the opposite side can get you there to Wat
Arun; plus, only 3 baht is needed for the transportation fee if you prefer
going by water.
Things You'll Need To Have a Healthy Tour Around Bangkok
Though the fun and bliss comes around
when you start the epic tour, it is highly crucial to consider having a safe
and healthy tour around Bangkok despite the alarming hot weather. As Wat Arun
Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan lies among the top tourist attractions and is
located in one of Bangkok's warm geographical settings, it is very important
for all tourists to make sure dehydration is prevented. Drinking room
temperature water while touring around Bangkok will keep the body hydrated at
all times, while wearing sunscreen, bringing along umbrellas, caps, a pair of
sunglasses, and mini fans will as well promote safer travelling. Apart from
health concerns, a reliable map to help you get around and go to varying places
will be useful and will be your portable tour guide. When touring the temple,
be it Wat Arun or other sacred temples in Bangkok, be sure to wear proper
attire, no short shorts, no spaghetti straps and be very careful of ancient or
old items/collectibles as they are fragile.
Thais are generally known for their big
smiles, kindness, and helpfulness. If there are to be any inquiries or
questions along the way, be sure to ask those nearby for guidance and some
help. Thais often use bank notes and coins in purchasing foods, goods, and even
for services. Be sure to convert the currency and prepare the amount needed to
sponsor your once in a life time tour here in Wat Arun Ratchawararam
Ratchawaramahawihan!
