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Temple of the Dawn (Wat Arun) Tours
27 Reviews
Easily one of Bangkok’s most visually striking landmarks, the Temple of the Dawn (Wat Arun) towers over the Chao Phraya River. Its colorfully decorated spires are the star features—the temple’s central prang stands 260 feet (79 meters) tall and is intricately decorated with tiny pieces of colored glass and Chinese porcelain.
The Basics
Named for the Hindu god Aruna who is said to emulate the rising sun, this Buddhist temple was built in the era of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, an ancient Siamese city-state. It’s now one of Thailand’s top landmarks, attracting visitors who come to wander the complex and its interior and those who clamber up the steep steps to enjoy unparalleled vistas of Bangkok’s skyline and the winding Chao Phraya River.
With its location on the river’s western bank, Wat Arun is best enjoyed from a canal cruise. Opt for a half-day longtail boat tour to see the temple along with top Bangkok attractions such as Chinatown, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), the Grand Palace, and the Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho). To see Temple of the Dawn lit up with the sunset’s golden glow, choose a dinner cruise; to view the temple from land, join a bike or tuk-tuk tour of the city.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wat Arun is an important place of worship, so be sure to dress appropriately for your visit. Modest clothing (covered shoulders and long pants or a skirt) is a must. Cover-ups can be rented near the temple’s entrance.
- Entering the complex requires a small fee.
- Remember to bring sun protection and comfortable shoes for scaling the steps.
- Be prepared to wait your turn to climb the central spire (prang) and make way for visitors heading back down. The experience is not well suited for those scared of heights or visitors with limited mobility.
How to Get There
The Temple of Dawn is located on the Chao Phraya River’s west bank, across from the Grand Palace. The easiest way to reach the temple is by water taxi from Tha Tien Pier, near Wat Pho. By road from the city center, head to the west side of the Chao Phraya River by way of the Phra Pin-klao Bridge, then follow the waterway south on Arum Amarin Road.
When to Get There
It’s possible to see the temple at dawn, but the central prang and wider temple complex typically opens at 8:30am. Opt for a sunrise visit to explore the exterior and beat the crowds (and the heat).
Exploring the Temple’s Interior Spaces
While the temple’s intricate exterior details are an obvious draw, its interior is also full of wonder. Don’t miss the incense-scented Ordination Hall and its prominently seated golden Buddha, the towering mosaic-lined chambers of the secluded Prayer Hall, or the human-sized Buddha’s footprint.
Address: 158 Wang Doem Road, Bangkok, Thailand
Hours: 8am–5:30pm
Admission: 30 Baht
Admission Tickets (3)
Attraction TicketsPrivate : Three Temples Bangkok City Tour (Multi Languages)
Bangkok is full of beautiful temples, but it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of which to visit first. This convenient city tour visits three must-see temples—Wat Traimit, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun—as well as other city sights such as markets and ethnic minority neighborhoods. This is a great tour for first-time visitors to Bangkok as you’ll learn all about the culture and religion of Thailand.
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- 3 to 4 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
From
$72.41
Price varies by group size
From
$72.41
Price varies by group size
- 3 to 4 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
Recent Reviews from Experiences in Bangkok
3 temples tour
suziebulldog
, Jan 2020
This 3 temples tour was exactly what I was looking for. I was picked up on time from the hotel by a lovely tour guide named Yui and her driver. We went to 3 locations in Bangkok. Yui explanated everything along the way and took photos of me in front of important locations. It was very casual and 'one on one' (not like a rushed group tour) I felt like I was traveling with a friend. She was very helpful even after the tour with some confusing details of my trip, and helped me out tremendously, and I am truly Thankful to have been lucky enough to meet her.
In my opinion she is a real asset to the tour co.
Very Cool
Shivleys
, Dec 2019
Our tour guide (Cindy) and driver arrived at our hotel before the scheduled pick up time which was nice. We had a private afternoon tour. The temples have dress codes that are enforced. Women need to wear pants that cover the knees and shirts that cover the shoulders and back. Holes in the pants are not viewed as appropriate. Men can wear shorts and t shirts, but no hats. Cindy was very knowledgeable and taught us a lot about each temple and showed us the important points. We took a quick ferry to a temple through a busy channel. My wife gets motion sickness and did not have any troubles because it is a short ride, but just be aware. Only thing you would need to bring is drinking water you may want. They drop us off at a good souvenir shop at the end.
300 Tours and Activities to Experience Temple of the Dawn (Wat Arun)
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Did you know?
You can reserve your spot today and pay when you're ready.Learn more
Sort by:Featured
Attraction TicketsPrivate : Three Temples Bangkok City Tour (Multi Languages)
Bangkok is full of beautiful temples, but it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of which to visit first. This convenient city tour visits three must-see temples—Wat Traimit, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun—as well as other city sights such as markets and ethnic minority neighborhoods. This is a great tour for first-time visitors to Bangkok as you’ll learn all about the culture and religion of Thailand.
... More
- 3 to 4 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
From
$72.41
Price varies by group size
From
$72.41
Price varies by group size
- 3 to 4 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
Attraction TicketsBangkok Wat Arun and Wat Pho Half Day Tour
Visit two landmark temples in Bangkok on a half-day tour that takes in Wat Arun and Wat Pho. When booking, choose to travel by minivan, car, or public transport, and benefit from the insightful commentary of your guide as you tour both sites. Your guide provides a cold towel and bottled water to help participants remain cool.
... More
- 6 hours
From
$75.00
Attraction Tickets5-Day Southern Thailand and Khao Sok National Park
Discover the highlights of southern Thailand and Khao Sok National Park on a 5-day tour that travels one-way from Bangkok to Phuket. Includes guided tours of Bangkok and Phuket, and more than two days to explore Khao Sok National Park. Cruise around Cheow Lan Lake by longtail boat, visit Bangkok's most famous temples, and experience the best of Thailand’s cities and wilderness in a short time on this comprehensive tour.
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- 5 days
From
$639.00
Day TripsThailand's Ayutthaya Temples and River Cruise from Bangkok
Combine a visit from Bangkok to Ayutthaya—the UNESCO-listed ancient capital of Siam—with a riverboat trip on the Chao Phraya River. An informative guide highlights Thailand’s fascinating history as you explore Ayutthaya temples, stone ruins and Buddha statues in the old capital of Thailand, which was ransacked by invading Burmese in the 18th century. This full-day tour includes lunch and returns you to Bangkok by boat.
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- 9 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
From
$63.12
Night CruisesBangkok Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya River
A Bangkok river cruise is a luxurious way to view main attractions—including the Grand Palace and Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)—illuminated at night. During your Chao Phraya River dinner cruise, feast on a buffet of authentic Thai dishes while watching the lit-up city skyline pass by. Relax as the live band provides the ambiance.
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- 3 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
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$31.98
Full-day ToursPrivate Guide In and Around Bangkok: Custom Tour
This customizable private tour showcases the best of Bangkok and beyond. Follow your personal guide through some of the city's top attractions, including Wat Arun Grand Palace, and the Floating Market. Explore some of Bangkok's most vibrant neighborhoods, sample local cuisine (own expense), and wander the shops and sites with a local who offers insight and information along the way.
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- 8 hours
From
$56.11
Price varies by group size
Private Sightseeing ToursPrivate Tour: Best of Bangkok in A Day
Discover the best that Bangkok has to offer on this full-day private tour of the city. Visit all of the must-see attractions such as the Grand Palace, Chinatown, the vibrant flower market, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and much more. Learn about the city’s rich history, religion, and culture from your informative guide as you drive around Bangkok in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
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- 8 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
From
$185.66
Price varies by group size
Half-day ToursAmazing Bangkok Tour Including Royal Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Arun
A great choice for first-time visitors to Bangkok, this tour touches on the city’s most revered temples. First, visit the Grand Palace, which was home to Thailand’s royal family until 1925. Next up: Wat Phra Kaew, (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), which is considered the most important temple in Thailand. You’ll also take a boat ride to the Temple of Dawn.
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- 3 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
From
$77.00
Price varies by group size
Bus ToursRoyal Grand Palace and Bangkok Temples - Half Day Tour
Explore Bangkok’s most important cultural sights on a half-day private tour of the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Traimit. Learn about the country’s royal heritage as you explore the palace, whose elaborate stepped roofs are the height of Siamese design. Visit the funeral and coronation halls, and see the sacred Buddha carved from solid jade. Circle the reclining Buddha at Wat Pho then stroll cool halls lined with hundreds of Buddha images. Continue to Wat Traimit to see a centuries-old golden Buddha, and leave an offering in the gleaming sanctuary.
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- 4 to 5 hours
From
$101.29
Price varies by group size
Bus ToursPrivate Tour: Half-day Grand Palace and Wat Arun by Boat
See more of Bangkok on a private half-day tour that features important monuments and a glimpse of daily life along the Thonburi canals. Start early to beat the crowds at the Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew). After, board a longtail boat for a leisurely cruise through Thonburi, an old neighborhood with lush gardens, traditional wooden houses, and the magnificent Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun).
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- 4 to 5 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
From
$143.37
Price varies by group size
From
$143.37
Price varies by group size
- 4 to 5 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
Day TripsIn and around Bangkok Private Tour Guide with Custom Experience
Explore Bangkok with your very own tour guide during this full-day tour. Customize your own itinerary and visit Bangkok’s main attractions and some hidden gems. See the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Wat Pho, the floating market and much more and get around using the city’s incredible public transport system. Experience Bangkok like a local and discover the best the city has to offer.
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- 8 hours
From
$52.50
Price varies by group size
Day TripsPERSONALIZE Program Discovery The Best of Bangkok - Half / Full Day/ Night Tour
Customize your sightseeing itinerary in Bangkok with options for a half- or full-day tour by public or private transportation. Popular destinations include Chinatown, The Grand Palace, and Wat Arun on the Chao Phraya River, or you can venture out to attractions such as Damnoen Saduak Floating Market or Chatuchak Weekend Market. With your own private guide you can easily plan a day suited to your interests.
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- 4 to 8 hours
From
$62.66
Price varies by group size
Day CruisesWhite Orchid Dinner Cruise with Optional Return Transfers
Get views of Bangkok illuminated for the evening while enjoying a buffet dinner on this evening cruise on the Chao Phraya River. You are able to view and photograph Bangkok landmarks such as the Grand Palace and the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun) from the vantage point of the river. Dig in to the buffet of Thai and international dishes while enjoying live music.
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- 2 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
From
$31.86
Half-day ToursBangkok Royal Road - Top 3 Major Monuments (Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat arun)
Visit the 3 major monuments of Bangkok in a half a day tour guided by a certified professionnal:
- The Grand Palace and the Emerald buddha
- Wat Pho Temple
- Wat Arun Temple
And go through China Town and the flower market in 1 tour only.
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- 5 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
From
$73.60
Bike & Mountain Bike ToursBangkok Night Bike Tour
Explore Bangkok at night on a bike tour that shows the bustling metropolis in a new light. Admire Wat Arun and Wat Pho lit up at night, wander through the legendary Pak Khlong Talat flower market and taste delicious bites made fresh by street vendors. Your knowledgeable local guide shares the magic of the Thai capital when the air cools down, traffic eases, and local people enjoy good food and company all along the streets.
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- 3 hours 30 minutes
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
From
$46.66
Half-day ToursPrivate Tour: Temples Tour of Bangkok
Visitors can find it hard to navigate their way around Bangkok’s many must-see temples. This private tour removes the guesswork, taking you to the most distinguished shrines with a personal guide to shed light on their history and treasures. Visit Wat Traimit, home to the world’s largest solid-gold Buddha, ride a boat across the Chao Phraya River to ornate Wat Arun, and tour Wat Pho, with its gigantic reclining Buddha.
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- 5 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
From
$114.11
Price varies by group size
Day CruisesBangkok Traditional Dinner Cruise by Loy Nava including hotel transfer
Cruise the Chao Phraya River on an open-air tour boat on this relaxing dinner cruise. Admire the sights and temples from the water at dusk as you experience Bangkok from a different perspective. In addition to a sit down dinner featuring Thai dishes, there’s live music with classical dancing. Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase.
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- 2 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
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$69.31
Half-day ToursBangkok Three Temples Tour: Wat Pho, Wat Traimit & Wat Arun (Multi Languages)
Bangkok is known by its abbreviated name to Thais - Krung Thep. The full name happens to give it the distinction of being the city with the longest name in the world! This four hour city tour takes you to three of the most prominent temples in the city, The Golden Temple, Temple of Dawn & The Temple of the Reclining Buddha.
- Three Bangkok temples: Wat Arun, Wat Pho and Wat Trimit
- 5.5-ton solid gold Buddha statue at historic Wat Trimitr
- Wat Pho's famed Reclining Buddha
- Insight into living Thai traditions & rich cultural heritage
- Seeing various city landmarks and significant locations
- Visit flower market and Central business district in Bangkok
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- 4 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
From
$79.58
Price varies by group size
Day TripsAyutthaya Ancient Capital Tour from Bangkok with Grand Pearl River Cruise
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ayutthaya is a must-visit day trip destination from Bangkok. This tour is the easy way to get there as you won’t have to worry about catching a bus on your own. You’ll spend a whole day touring the archaeological sites, palaces, and temples of the former capital of Thailand. The tour includes a delicious lunch and a river cruise back to Bangkok.
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- 10 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
From
$85.26
Dinner CruisesWonderful Pearl Dinner Cruise
Take an elegant cruise through the bustling city of Bangkok on this dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River. Board the modern and luxurious boat and look out over the city’s modern and ancient architecture that blends temples, skyscrapers, markets, and a royal palace. Dine on Western, Thai, and even Japanese dishes while watching a live, traditional Thai performance.
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- 2 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
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$59.41
Half-day ToursBangkok Temples Instagram Tour: Wat Arun, Wat Pho & Wat Saket (Small Group)
● Snap colorful photos at the most Instagrammable places in Bangkok on this Bangkok Temple Tour
● Explore the most important and impressive monuments in the city on this small group excursion
● Get the quintessential Wat Pho Instagram shot with the enormous Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho
● Board a riverboat to mesmerising Wat Arun
● Journey to Wat Saket, one of Bangkok's oldest shrines built on a hillside
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- 4 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
From
$29.00
Price varies by group size
Day CruisesWan Fah Dinner Cruise Along Chao Phraya River
See a different view of the Bangkok skyline on a riverboat cruise along the Chao Phraya River. This dinner excursion takes you away from the noise and traffic of Bangkok’s crowded streets and lets you relax in a tranquil environment as you cruise through the city and take in the sites along the way.
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- 2 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
From
$45.05
Dinner Cruises2-Hour Shangri-La Horizon Dinner Cruise from Bangkok
See the shimmering lights of Bangkok by night during a 2-hour dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River. You’ll navigate past the illuminated Temple of Dawn and royal Grand Palace while sipping drinks served on board (own expense). Take in the breathtaking sights from the air-conditioned cabin while dining on an international buffet of seafood, salads, soups and superb desserts.
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- 2 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
From
$86.57
Dining ExperiencesGrand Pearl - Luxury Dinner Cruise Experience at Bangkok with Return Transfer
See Bangkok from the water while enjoying traditional Thai food and performances on this luxury dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River. A dinner cruise is ideal for food lovers, a date night, and photographers who want to capture the glittering skyline, plus it is the perfect way to escape Bangkok’s crowded streets and get a unique perspective of many of the city’s top attractions.
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- 4 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
From
$66.01
Price varies by group size
Half-day ToursPrivate Tour : Bangkok Three Temples and The City (Multi Languages)
Buddhist temples are an important part of Thai culture and daily life. On this half-day tour, visit three of the most prominent temples in the city: Golden Temple, Temple of Dawn, and Temple of the Reclining Buddha. You will also drive through Chinatown, Little India, the Flower Market and the central business district.
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- 4 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
From
$74.26
Price varies by group size
Half-day ToursBangkok Night Food and City Tour by Tuk Tuk
Soak up Bangkok’s unique sights, sounds, and colors on a nighttime tour of the city’s greatest foods and vibrant neighborhoods by private tuk-tuk. Get a personal introduction to the city that’s a perfect orientation for first-time visitors: take in Bangkok twists on classic Thai dishes, explore Buddhist temples, and sip drinks at the edge of the Chao Phraya River. Join the locals in a colorful neighborhood market and discover the best pad Thai in the city as Bangkok comes to life after dark.
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- 4 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
From
$77.70
Bus ToursRoyal Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew and Emerald Buddha in Bangkok - Half Day Tour
Take a small group tour of Bangkok's top attractions on this visit to the Royal Grand Palace. You'll follow an expert local guide to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and Temple Wat Pho. Round-trip hotel transport is included in this tour, which offers morning or afternoon departures.
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- 3 to 4 hours
- Reserve Now & Pay Later
- Free Cancellation
From
$54.06
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