Standing on the West bank of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun is one of Bangkok’s most visible and photographed landmarks.

Wat Arun consists of one large Kmer style tower, called a Prang, and four smaller prangs. Construction of the Wat began under King Rama II and was completed under King Rama III. The main prang is 250 feet tall and over 760 feet in circumference at it’s base surrounded by rows of demons and monkeys.

The narrow and steep staircase leads to a balcony high up on the central prang. It is possible to go up the stairs to a certain point and the views from here are stunning. Across the river you can see the Grand Palace as well as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and Wat Po.

The exterior of the prangs are inlaid with thousands of pieces of multi-colored Chinese porcelain  that at one time was used as ballast on boats coming to Thailand from China. Early in it’s life Wat Arun housed the great Emerald Buddha before it was moved to nearby Wat Phra Kaew. The prangs of Wat Arun are probably it’s best known feature but once inside the grounds you’ll see beautiful old shrines, gardens and pools with turtles.

The Wat and it’s grounds are remarkable but I think it’s true beauty is seen from a distance. Some of the most beautiful pictures taken of Wat Arun are usually from across the river or from a river boat at sunset.

Once a year Wat Arun becomes a central figure in The Royal Tod Kathin Festival. The highlight of this festival is when the King and a procession of royal barges makes it’s way down river to deliver new robes to the monks after the three month period of lent has ended.

Unfortunately for me my camera had problems the day I saw Wat Arun so I got very few good pictures. Next trip I plan on going back to get more pics for the Gallery.

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