Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn

Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, is one of Bangkok's most striking landmarks, a soaring central spire, or prang, rising nearly 70 metres above the west bank of the Chao Phraya river. Its towers are encrusted with a glittering mosaic of colourful Chinese porcelain and seashells that catches the first light of dawn, and it is at its most beautiful glowing against the sky at sunset, seen from across the river.

What you actually see

• The central spire - the towering prang encrusted with porcelain.
• The porcelain mosaic - the glittering coloured ceramic decoration.
• The river views - the temple seen from across the Chao Phraya at sunset.
• The climb - the steep steps partway up the spire for a view.

When to go

November to February for the coolest weather; despite the name, it is most beautiful at sunset, seen or photographed from a riverside bar or the far bank. A modest dress code applies within the temple.

Honest expectations

Despite being the Temple of Dawn, it photographs best at sunset from across the river, so time a riverside drink for it. The steps up the spire are very steep. It is reached by a short cross-river ferry, easily combined with Wat Pho and the Grand Palace on the opposite bank.

Nearby

Wat Pho and the Grand Palace are across the river; the Thonburi canals are nearby.