Wat Arun

With origins in past battles between the former Siam and Burma, Wat Arun is somewhat of a triumphant complex. Ayutthaya was reduced to rubble and ashes after it was conquered by the Burmese, but General Taksin and the remaining survivors vowed to march and build a temple here "until the sun rose again". It was the Wat Arun or Temple of the Dawn. The new king subsequently constructed a private chapel and his royal palace here.

You will be rewarded with an outstanding view of the sun setting over the Chao Praya River if you climb to the top of the prang just before sunset. Sunset is definitely the best time to experience this location in all its beauty, even if you don't intend to do any climbing.

Address: Arun Amarin Road, Bangkok