Review: Wat Arun

What's the story behind this temple?
Of the more than 37,000 temples, or wats, throughout Thailand, Wat Arun is one of the most iconic. The 269-foot-tall prahng, a Khmer-style tower, juts out from the banks of the Chao Phraya River, and the temple complex is illuminated in a golden glow at night.

How easy is it to navigate? Do we need a guide?
It's fine to fly solo at Wat Arun. There isn’t much information available at the ticket booth, so let Google be your tour guide.

Why are people drawn to this space?
Visitors clamor here because it's one of the few temples in Thailand that you can climb; once you've ascended the steep and narrow stairs, you're in for a great view of the river and surrounding temple complex. After taking in the sights, walk back down the stairs and inspect the floral murals made from broken Chinese porcelain discarded by Chinese traders who worked at the nearby port. Next, don’t miss the boht—ordination hall—filled with the ashes of Rama II, more ornate murals, and rows of gilded Buddhas.

Please tell us it doesn't disappoint.
This is a must-visit for anyone in Bangkok, and the temple lives up to the hype. The 100 baht — less than $3 — entrance fee for foreigners is well worth the price of admission.

Is there anyone Wat Arun you'd especially recommend this to?
Although Bangkok doesn’t have a reputation for being particularly child-friendly, parents will find plenty to like in the relaxed nature of a visit to Wat Arun, and little ones can explore freely.