Wat Arun, Thailand also known as the Temple of Dawn
Originally known as Wat Makok, meaning ‘the Olive
Temple’, Wat Arun was built during the days of the ancient capital of Ayuttaya.
Wat Arunratchawararam, shortly called Wat Arun, offers breathtaking views at
sunset time from the Bangkok side
of the Chao Phraya River. Perhaps owing to this fact, it is also known as ‘the
Temple of Dawn’. Stamped on post cards, Wat Arun is an outstanding monument
that is worth visiting during a tour to Bangkok.
King Rama II started constructing this majestic
temple in early 19th century and later it was completed by Rama III. The
central prang built as a Khmer-style pagoda, standing with a height of 80
meters, is the main attraction of Wat Arun. The bell-shaped central prang is
said to symbolize the legendary Mount Meru, center of the universe and home of
the gods.
Wat Arun is surrounded by four smaller satellite
prangs, which are beautifully adorned with seashells, pieces of colored glass
and Chinese porcelain. Wat Arun is home to various statues of ancient Chinese
soldiers, animals and the Hindu god Indra.
Looking at the two temple guardian figures or the
so-called demons at the front side of Wat Arun will enthrall you. Entry is
chargeable and the ticket costs around 30 Bahts per person for foreign
visitors. There is no entry fee for Thai citizens.
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