The 79m (260-ft.) -high, Khmer-inspired tower, the centerpiece of the “Temple of Dawn,” rises majestically from the banks of the Chao Phraya, across from Wat Po. This religious complex served as the royal chapel during King Taksin’s reign (1809-24), when Thonburi was the capital of Thailand.
The original tower was only 15m (50 ft.) high, but was expanded during the rule of Rama III (1824-51) to its current height. The exterior is decorated with flower and decorative motifs made of ceramic shards donated to the monastery by local people, at the request of Rama III. At the base of the complex are Chinese stone statues, once used as ballast in trading ships, gifts from Chinese merchants.
You can climb the central prang, but be warned: The steps are treacherously tall, narrow, and steep — and even more precarious coming down. If you go up, notice the caryatids and the Hindu gods atop the three-headed elephants. The view of the river, Wat Po, and Grand Palace is well worth the climb. Be sure to walk to the back of the tower to the monk’s living quarters, a tranquil world far from the bustle of Bangkok’s busy streets. Wat Arun is a sight to behold shimmering with the sunrise, but despite its name, a late afternoon visit is better so that you can enjoy the sunset. Temple of the dusk, maybe?