Wat Arun has a triumphal complex since its origins are in past wars between the former Siam and Burma. After being taken over by the Burmese, Ayutthaya was reduced to ruins and ashes, but General Taksin and the remaining survivors vowed to march and build a temple here "until the sun rose again". It was the Temple of the Dawn or Wat Arun. The new king later built his royal palace and a private chapel here.
Wat Arun is best viewed early in the morning when the sun is just rising and reflecting off the walls of the temple, giving the ornately decorated structures a pearly shine. Another excellent vantage point is from a small local ferry that crosses the Chao Phraya River at any time of day. You can also take a boat from Wat Pho Temple and land at Wat Arun right across the river for breathtaking views of both temples. Address: Arun Amarin Road, Bangkok
