WAT BOWONNIWETWIHAN RATCHAWORAWIHAN

Usually known as Wat Boworn, this temple was built by HRH Prince Maha Sakdipolsep, a son of King Rama III, and originally called Wat Mai.

King Rama IV stayed here after he was ordained, and founded the Thammayut Nikai, a more ascetic monastic order. The temple is of special importance because King Rama VI, King Rama VII, and HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej were all ordained here.

Ubosot: This is a 'Trimuk' pavilion with wings on both sides and a tiled roof in the Chinese style. The gable end is decorated with glazed ceramics and at centre is the seal of the Royal crown. The doorway arches and windows are in gilded stucco. The murals were painted in European style by Khrua In Khong. The important Buddha images are Phra Suwannakhet, Phra Phuttachinnasi, Phra Nirantarai and Phra Phutaninnat.

Sio Kang Gate: The large door framed in the temple wall is carved with gateway guardians in the Chinese style.

Panya Palace: This was built on the orders of King Rama III as the residence of kings and princes who were being ordained.

Petch Palace: The main chamber of this mixed Thai and European-style building was the site of the first printing house in Thailand.

Mahamakut Buddhist University: Founded by King Rama V, this university for monks now has four faculties: Religion and Philosophy, Humanities, Social Studies and Education.