Wat Boworniwet Ratchawitham in Bangkok: History, Architecture, and Visitor Information

Key summary

Wat Boworniwet Ratchawitham, a high-ranking royal temple located at the intersection of Thanon Talad Nao and Thanon Phueang Nak in Bang Lamphu, Bangkok, serves as a spiritual center for the community. The temple was historically the residence of the Supreme Patriarch of Thailand, Somdet Phra Sangkaraja Dhammaraj Vichayanawong (Charoen Suwattano), the 19th Supreme Patriarch of the Rattanakosin era. It also served as a residence for several royal monks and hosted King Bhumibol Adulyadej and King Vajiralongkorn during their monastic periods. The site includes Wat Boworniwet Secondary School and the Bhapra Museum, which displays the history of the Supreme Patriarchs and abbots. Open on Saturdays and Sundays from 09:00 to 17:00 without admission fees, the museum features volunteer guides around 14:00. The temple complex includes the Phra Ubot (ordination hall) renovated in the reign of King Rama IV with glazed tiles and murals by Khrua In Khong, housing the main Buddha image Phra Phuttha Chinnasiri. Other structures include the Phra Maha Chedi (Golden Great Stupa), Phra Phai Ripe Pinasat (a replica available for veneration as the original is in a sacred area), and various royal residences such as Tamnak Phanha and Tamnak Chan. Public transport access includes Bus 516, with a walk of approximately 200-300 meters from Thanon Ratchadamnoen.