Twilight at the Temple of Dawn

Wat Arun, which means “Temple of the Dawn” in Thai, is one of Bangkok’s most recognizable landmarks. Facing the Grand Palace and Wat Pho across the Chao Phraya River, it stands nearly 200 feet high.

Though it is the Temple of the Dawn, I really wanted to photograph it after sunset, when its prangs, or towers, are illuminated in yellow tones and it stands out wonderfully against a blue twilight sky.

I wasn’t sure where to photograph it from, though. The banks of the Chao Phraya aren’t open for strolling because houses and businesses line the river, and the multiple ferry landings are far too wobbly for photography since they float on pontoons.

I wandered up and down alleys looking for a location. I finally stumbled on a hidden gem when I found a boutique hotel on the river with an adorable rooftop bar that directly faced Wat Arun. I greatly enjoyed my pineapple juice and malibu cocktail while listening to some jazz and watching the light change on the temple in front of me.

Here’s my favorite photo from the evening.