Wat Bowonniwet Vihara, also known as Wat Bowon, is a temple dedicated to the Thammayut sect of Buddhism that was founded in 1826. It is common because many Thai kings, including King Rama IV and Bhumibol, were monks and abbots here, including King Rama IX. It is also King Bhumibol’s final resting place. Wat Pavaranivesh Rajavaravihara, also known as Wat Bowonniwet, is located in the district of Phra Nakhon. It is a significant Theravada Buddhist centre that is still revered by the royal family and the local people.
The temple has fantastic architecture, and the design reflects the influence of China. Sights include Buddha statues and various buildings used by the monastic order. A fusion of culture and religious sovereignty is a must-see for everyone. Those were trying to experience Thai culture! Many murals depict Thai depictions of western life as well as the most unique and beautiful golden chedi.
Wat Bowonniwet Vihara History
Wat Bowonniwet Vihara was constructed during Rama III’s reign. His patrons are Chakri dynasty rulers. In 1836, Prince Bhikkhu Mongkut was appointed as the temple’s first abbot (of the Thammayut Nikkaya order). Later, he was crowned King Rama IV. As a result, the temple has had political significance over the years.
King Bhumibol Adulyadej, also known as King Rama IX, stayed for 15 days and had his ashes interred here. Along with kings, notable figures like exiled dictator and former Prime Minister Field Marshal Thanom Kittikachorn have lived here.
Architecture
The Wat Bowonniwet Vihara complex is a blend of Thai and Chinese architecture. Its walls are hand-painted. Sights of the complex include the Library of Scriptures (Tripitaka), the Bodhi Tree Building, the Royal Residences, the Monks’ Quarters and the Bell. Tower. It also houses a shrine to a Buddha statue dating back to 1357. Several golden chedis in the complex contain relics of previous rulers.
However, some of these are closed to the public. The temple houses a £12,000 solid gold Buddha statue. Legend has it that this plaster-covered icon protected it from looters for almost 200 years. Then the plaster cracked. , and the golden Buddha was revealed below. Other sights include the green stone Buddha from the Dvaravati period (6th to 13th centuries), the reclining Buddha and the footprint of the Buddha.
How to Reach Wat Bowonniwet Vihara
Wat Bowonniwet Vihara is located in the Phra Nakhon district of Bangkok, near the famous Khao San Road. Visitors can join the hop-on hop-off river tour and disembark at the Phra Arthit Express Boat Pier, which is a mile to a mile from the temple. Visitors can also take bus 516 and get off at Banglamphu bus stop 1, a 2-minute walk from the temple. From the Grand Palace, a metered taxi will cost between THB 50 and THB 100 to reach Wat Bowonniwet Vihara.
