The Wat Bowon is the center of the Dhammayuttika Nikaya, an order of Theravada Buddhism founded by King Mongkut.
The Wat Bowonniwet has strong ties with the Thai Royal Family. In 1836 Prince Mongkut became the first abbot of the temple, which he remained until 1851 when he was crowned King Rama IV. Several other members of the Royal Family lived in the temple, including the current King Bhumibol (Rama IX).