The island of Koh Sichang is situated 45 minutes ferry ride off Siracha in the Gulf of Thailand. It is the nearest island to Bangkok, and as such is used as a retreat by many of the city's residents.
The prang of Wat Arun on the bank of Chao Phraya River is one of Bangkok 's world-famous landmarks. From a French map of Thonburi made in the reign of King Narai it can be seen that the temple existed when Ayutthaya was Siam 's capital.