Bangkok's most photographed temple looks completely different at sunset from the opposite bank — the full plan.
Wat Arun looks best from the east bank across the river — the late afternoon light turns the porcelain mosaic orange and gold; visiting inside during this time means missing the best photo.
Arrive at the east bank pier (Tha Tian, near Wat Pho) around 4:30–5 PM; sit at a riverside restaurant or cafe on the east bank; watch the sun set on Wat Arun from across the water.
Cross by ferry (3–5 THB) and visit Wat Arun in the morning (9–10 AM) for the climb and porcelain detail; return to the east bank for the sunset views.
Several riverside restaurants near Tha Tian pier have direct views of Wat Arun — book a table or arrive before 5 PM; dinner with the temple lit up is a Bangkok classic.
A tripod or steady surface helps considerably once the sky darkens and the temple is lit — most riverside restaurants are happy for diners to shoot from their terrace.