The Majestic White Tower of Wat Arun on the Chao Phraya River

Location: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok 10600 Thailand For those eager to immerse themselves in Bangkok's traditional architecture and religious culture, Wat Arun is an unmissable landmark. Situated on the Chao Phraya River's bank, this ancient temple stands out with its soaring white spires and ornate ceramic details, earning it the nickname 'Thailand's Eiffel Tower'. Tracing its origins to the 17th century and the Ayutthaya Kingdom, Wat Arun was commissioned by King Taksin to honor Thailand's founder, King Rama I, whose ashes were enshrined there. Successive monarchs, King Rama II and King Rama III, enhanced the temple, elevating the main spire to 82 meters and adorning it with Chinese porcelain and glass, enhancing its splendor. The temple's central prang is a Brahmanic structure symbolizing the Buddhist cosmological center. Surrounding it are four smaller prangs, each representing a cardinal direction. Visitors can ascend the balconies at each level for panoramic views of the river and cityscape. The prang's facade is a mosaic of colorful porcelain, depicting intricate designs of flora, fauna, and mythological beings that shimmer under the light. As a prime destination in Bangkok, Wat Arun offers distinct experiences by day and night. For a full Thai experience, traditional attire is available for rent at nearby shops, perfect for a memorable photo session against the backdrop of Wat Arun.