Welcoming the sunrise on New Year's Day 2025 from Wat Arun, Bangkok

Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is located at 158 Thanon Wang Doem, on the banks of the poetic Chao Phraya River, an ideal destination to start a new year full of energy. This is also the temple that foreign tourists, especially young people, check in the most.

Wat Arun Temple – Bangkok's architectural icon

Wat Arun is one of the beautiful temples in Thailand. (Photo: Collected)

Wat Arun is not only a famous tourist destination associated with the history of the Thai royal family, but also a cultural and spiritual symbol of Bangkok. This temple impresses visitors with its unique architecture, with an impressive high tower decorated with exquisite Chinese porcelain pieces, sparkling in the sunlight. The most prominent feature of the temple is the 70-meter-high central tower with four small towers at the four surrounding corners, which is considered a symbol of Mount Meru, the center of the universe. In particular, the morning light shines on the architectural details of the temple, making Wat Arun shimmer and magical, a scene not to be missed when traveling to Bangkok .

The towers are decorated with sophisticated porcelain tiles. (Photo: Collected)

The Emerald Buddha was originally housed in one of two small buildings located in front of the Grand Chedi before being moved to Wat Phra Kaew at the Grand Palace. Sculptures of Chinese soldiers and animals decorate the base of the Grand Chedi. Next to the chedi is the Main Hall with the Buddha Niramitr, which is said to have been designed by King Rama II. King Rama II had the Buddha's face made of wood and then covered in gold leaf. On the second floor are four statues of the Hindu god Indra standing on the three-headed elephant Erawan. On the riverbank are six Chinese-style villas containing the landing bridge where the Royal Water Launching Ceremony took place.

When entering Wat Arun, you will come to a traditional Thai architectural space. In the center of the main hall is a very solemn statue of Shakyamuni Buddha carved in gold. Inside Wat Arun is also decorated with Buddhist paintings, lamps and flowers. Everything is designed and arranged meticulously and delicately.

Welcome the sunrise at Wat Arun - A popular Thai travel experience on New Year's Day

Many tourists come to Wat Arun to watch the sunrise. (Photo: @im.marocina)

In the first days of the new year, thousands of tourists from all over Thailand flock to Thailand, many of whom choose Wat Arun as their destination to welcome the first sunrise of the year on their spring trip. In the early morning, when the first rays of sunlight appear from the horizon, the entire Wat Arun space seems to light up in a magical scene. From 6:00 to 8:00 is a great time to watch the sunrise. This is also a beautiful time for young people to check-in and live virtual life. With the pale yellow light covering the intricately carved towers of Wat Arun, it creates a beautiful scene. For Thai people, welcoming the sunrise here also has a deep spiritual meaning. You can sit on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, enjoy the view of Wat Arun reflected on the shimmering water, feel the fresh and peaceful air, starting a new year full of energy and hope. From the top of the tower, you can see the panoramic view of the Chao Phraya River, the Royal Palace and Wat Pho Temple.

Experience local culture and activities you shouldn't miss

Wear polite clothes when visiting Wat Arun. (Photo: Collected)

After watching the sunrise, visitors can participate in offering rituals, pray for a peaceful and prosperous new year and visit temples. Next, you can visit the famous markets along the Chao Phraya River, enjoy Thai street food with delicious dishes such as Pad Thai, mango sticky rice, and fresh seafood dishes.

In addition, you can also participate in traditional activities taking place during the first days of the New Year, immersing yourself in the bustling, colorful festive atmosphere of Thailand.

(*) Note: You should dress politely when visiting the temple and comply with the temple's regulations.
Since Wat Arun is a functioning Thai Buddhist temple, the management requires visitors to dress appropriately when visiting . This means that men must wear long pants and short-sleeved or long-sleeved shirts (no tank tops or sleeveless shirts). Women must wear skirts or pants that are at least knee-length, and should not wear jackets that expose bare shoulders. And smoking is not allowed on the temple grounds, please note.

Wat Arun seen from the banks of the poetic Chao Phraya River. (Photo: Collected)

Let Wat Arun be the starting point for your 2025 Thailand travel itinerary , where you can immerse yourself in the sacred space, watch the sparkling rays of dawn and immerse yourself in the unique culture and beliefs of the land of golden temples. Book your Thailand tour today and start your 2025 travel itinerary with unforgettable experiences at Wat Arun, the most beautiful and sacred temple in Thailand!

Source : https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/du-lich-thai-lan-2025-don-binh-minh-chua-wat-arun-bangkok-v15862.aspx