Here are our highlight places to visit in Bangkok.
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
