Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) vs Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun)
Both are endorsed by expert reviewers. Overall, Temple of Dawn is preferred by most writers compared to Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Temple of Dawn is ranked #2 in Bangkok with recommendations from 7 publications such as Michelin Guide, Time Out and Frommer's.
Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew)
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Na Phra Lan Road, Phra Borom Maha Rajawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
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Fodor's
"No single structure within the Grand Palace elicits such awe as this, the most sacred temple in the kingdom."
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Concierge
"One of Thailand's most impressive sights: 54 acres featuring a collection of palatial buildings, golden stupas, sculpted nine-foot demons, and richly ornamented wats (temples)."
Frommer's
"The number one destination in Bangkok is also one of the most imposing and visually fascinating."
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Travel + Leisure
"Wat Phra Kaew, more commonly known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is widely regarded as Thailand’s most sacred site."
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Michelin Guide
2 Stars
"The royal chapel (ubosot) serves as a backdrop to one of the most sacred objects in Thailand, the Emerald Buddha."
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i
Walk right around the temple to admire the Ramakien gallery, which is adorned with remarkable painted murals.
Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun)
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158 Wang Doem Road, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok 10600, Thailand
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Fodor's
"If this riverside spot is inspiring at sunrise, it's even more marvelous toward dusk, when the setting sun throws amber tones over the entire area."
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Frommer's
"Formerly known as Wat Jaeng, the 79m-high (260-ft.), Khmer-inspired tower was renamed the "Temple of Dawn," by King Thaksin, Bangkok's founder."
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i
Be sure to walk to the back of the tower to the monks' living quarters, a tranquil world far from the bustle of Bangkok's busy streets.
Time Out
"This five-spired landmark has been known as the 'Temple of Dawn' ever since the soon-to-be King Taksin landed by the then Wat Magog at sunrise in October 1767."
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Travel + Leisure
"Directly across the river from Wat Pho sits Wat Arun, one of the most recognizable spots in Bangkok."
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Michelin Guide
3 Stars
"Wat Arun is easily recognisable by its huge central prang (114m high), which is built in Khmer-style... this temple is dedicated to the Hindu god of the day, Aruna."
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