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Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun) vs The Grand Palace

Both are rated very highly by expert reviewers. Overall, Temple of Dawn scores slightly better than The Grand Palace. Temple of Dawn is ranked #2 in Bangkok with praise from 7 reviewers like Lonely Planet, Afar Magazine and Travel + Leisure.

Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun)
Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun)
9 / 10
158 Wang Doem Road, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok 10600, Thailand
From $0 /night
Fodor's 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." Full review
Frommer's 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." Full review
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 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." Full review
Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
"Directly across the river from Wat Pho sits Wat Arun, one of the most recognizable spots in Bangkok." Full review
Michelin Guide 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." Full review
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The Grand Palace
The Grand Palace
8 / 10
Na Phra Lan Rd, Maharaj Pier, next to Wat Phra Kaeo Temple Complex, Bangkok, Thailand
From $0 /night
Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
"Located on the Chao Phraya River, the gold-spired Grand Palace is one of Thailand’s most important sacred sites." Full review
Time Out Time Out
"Bangkok's paramount must-see sight is this architectural and spiritual treasure, which is twice as dazzling if you see it on a sunny day." Full review
Fodor's Fodor's
"This is Thailand's most revered spot and one of its most visited." Full review
i
Proper attire (no flip-flops, shorts, or bare shoulders or midriffs) is required
Afar Magazine Afar Magazine
"No trip to Bangkok is complete without a visit to the Grand Palace, which sits smack in the middle of the city, while resting elegantly on the banks of the Chao Phraya River." Full review
Michelin Guide Michelin Guide
1 Star
"The former royal residence of the kings of Siam... the Grand Palace now hosts official ceremonies." Full review
i
In addition to Chakri Mahaprasat palace, where the king lived, don't miss Aphon Phimok Prasat, a beautifully proportioned wooden pavilion, and Dusit Mahat Prasat, built in 1789, recognisable by its gilded spire.
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