Thailand / Bangkok / Wat Arun

Wat Arun is located on the west bank of the Chao Phaya River and can be reached either through Arun Amarin Road or by crossing the river by boat from Tha Tien Pier near Wat Pho. The most attractive structure in this temple is the 79m (260ft) high pagoda or Phra Prang which is completely covered with pieces of multi-colored glass and Chinese porcelain. From the upper levels, one has a panoramic view of the surrounding city.

Wat Arun was restored during the brief Thonburi period to be the Royal Chapel of King Taksin and enlarged during the reigns of King Rama II (1809-1824) and King Rama III (1824-1851). Despite its name "Temple of the Dawn", the most beautiful view of it is from the Bangkok side of the river, during sunset.