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Wat Arun
Iconic riverside temple in Bangkok famed for its towering spire, intricate design, and stunning riverside location, glittering at dawn.
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From a distance, it dominates the skyline on the Chao Phraya’s western bank. Up close, it’s even more impressive. Every inch is covered with intricate multicolored floral mosaics crafted from Chinese porcelain, used as ballast by Chinese merchant vessels before being discarded on reaching the Thai capital. Unlike most Thai temples, you’re actively encouraged to climb Wat Arun. The views across the carob-colored river, still lined in places by weather-worn wooden shacks, are among the best in Bangkok.
For the most part, Thailand feels utterly Southeast Asian. In some ways, it feels more Asian than its neighbors – no coincidence, given that it was the only country in the region never to be colonized by Europeans. But that’s not to say the Western world hasn’t left its mark on Bangkok. One of the most remarkable examples is the Jim Thompson House, a museum that’s both exactly what you’d expect and nothing like you’d imagine.
For the most part, Thailand feels utterly Southeast Asian. In some ways, it feels more Asian than its neighbors – no coincidence, given that it was the only country in the region never to be colonized by Europeans. But that’s not to say the Western world hasn’t left its mark on Bangkok. One of the most remarkable examples is the Jim Thompson House, a museum that’s both exactly what you’d expect and nothing like you’d imagine.
PhilNorris 4 years ago
Wat Arun Articles
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One City Two Ways: Bangkok
Read more...With a myriad of cultural gems and a famously dynamic and diverse nightlife, Bangkok is a city where you can choose your own adventure. Travel experts Caroline and Phil are united in agreeing that Bangkok is one of the world’s great tourist cities, but their reasons for loving it are very different. Here are their […]