As we bid adieu to 2023, Thailand is gearing up for an unprecedented New Year's Eve celebration. The "Amazing Thailand Countdown 2024 Vijit Arun" promises an unforgettable night of festivities at the iconic Wat Arun, one of Thailand's most revered temples. This event will take place at Nagaraphirom Park, situated on the opposite side of Wat Arun, offering a breathtaking view of the Chao Phraya River. 

The "Amazing Thailand Countdown 2024 Vijit Arun" marks the culmination of the month-long Vijit Chao Phraya extravagant light event and the Thailand Winter Festival year-end spectacle. These initiatives, orchestrated by the Thai government, aim to amplify Thailand's cultural influence and elevate its events and festivals to a global scale. Moreover, the event strives to foster commercial opportunities for local businesses and establishments in the area, further enriching the vibrant ambiance of the Chao Phraya River region. 

Wat Arun, with its full name being "Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan" boasts a rich history tracing back to the Ayutthaya Kingdom. Over the years, it underwent extensive restoration and expansion, with its iconic central prang towering to a height of 70 meters during the reign of Rama III. The temple once enshrined the Phra Phuttha Maha Mani Rattana Patimakon (the Emerald Buddha), which had been transported from Vientiane. 

Located on Arun Amarin Road on the Thon Buri side of the Chao Phraya River, directly opposite Wat Pho, this temple's existence dates back to the Ayutthaya era. Originally known as Wat Chaeng, it was later elevated to a first-class royal temple of the Woramahawihan class when the King of Krung Thon Buri moved the capital from Ayutthaya. This temple underwent a significant renovation during the reign of King Rama II and was appropriately renamed Wat Arun Ratchatharam upon its completion. 

During King Rama III's reign, a colossal pagoda, standing at 82 meters high and 234 meters wide, was constructed. This grand project was successfully completed during the reign of King Rama IV the Great, and the temple's name was changed to Wat Arun Ratchawararam, as it is still known today. 

Wat Arun has been meticulously restored and diligently maintained, emerging as a symbol of Thailand's rich cultural heritage. 

Visitors can easily access Wat Arun via the Chao Phraya River, with ferries shuttling to the Maharaj pier. For international visitors, there is a modest entrance fee of 100 baht (as of January 2021). The temple warmly welcomes visitors daily from 08:00 to 18:00 hrs. For additional information and inquiries, please contact Tel. 0 2891 2185.