Location guide · 2 min read
Photographing Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
How to get to Wat Arun, the best time to avoid crowds, and the best spots — including the riverside rooftops where tripods are allowed.
Wat Arun sits on the bank of the Chao Phraya River, almost directly opposite Wat Pho. In my opinion it's one of the most intricately decorated temples in Bangkok. With the Grand Palace, Wat Pho and the old town nearby, there's plenty to explore — plan at least half a day if you're a keen photographer.
I'm sharing my experience taking pictures at these places, not reviewing their services. Opening hours, prices and tripod rules can change — check before you go, and please dress and behave respectfully at the temple.
How to get there
- MRT: take the Blue Line to Itsaraphap station. Wat Arun is about 1 km away.
- Ferry: take the Chao Phraya boat to Tha Tien pier (opposite the temple), then the cross-river ferry.
- Taxi: it can take a long time depending on the time of day. I don't recommend it in the afternoon or evening.
- Driving: only early in the morning. If you're early enough, parking right in front of the temple is easy.
Wat Arun Ratchawararam, Bangkok on Google Maps
Best time to go
- Early on a weekday morning is the best way to avoid crowds. The temple opens around 8 am.
- Avoid public holidays and Buddhist holidays — unless you want to photograph the ceremonies.
Where to take pictures
The temple grounds are the obvious place, but I recommend exploring the surroundings too. There are lots of interesting subjects to photograph with Wat Arun in the background.
Riva Arun Bangkok hotel rooftop
For dawn shots, have breakfast at the rooftop restaurant of Riva Arun Bangkok, across the river almost directly opposite the temple. The staff were very friendly and, when I visited, it was the only place I knew of that allowed tripods. Breakfast starts at 6 am — too late for the pre-sunrise light — but they let me go up to the rooftop earlier. After breakfast, cross the river to the temple.
For the evening I recommend the same rooftop, mainly because the other restaurants I asked didn't allow tripods — a deal breaker for night photography.
Riva Arun Bangkok on Google Maps
The Deck by Arun Residence
The Deck by Arun Residence also has a spectacular view of the temple. Tripods are not allowed, so I rested my camera on the handrail. For the table with the best view, call ahead and book.
Browse more free photos of Bangkok temples.
