Phra Tamnak residences
The grounds of the Wat Bowonniwet contain several Phra Tamnak buildings, residences for Royalty or high ranking Buddhist monks. Originally built in the Grand Palace, the Phra Tamnak Panya was moved to the Wat Bowonniwet by King Rama III in 1836 to be the residence for Prince Mongkut after he became the abbot of the temple. Several Kings lived in the Phra Tamnak Panya building, including the present King Bhumibol who was a monk in the Wat Bowonniwet for a while. The building is a mix of Thai, Chinese and European styles.
The Phra Tamnak Phet was built by King Vajiravudh (Rama VI) in 1914 as a residence for the temple’s third abbot. The building is now used for various ceremonies. The Phra Tamnak Phet is a very attractive building in a mix of Thai and European architectural styles; its name translates to “Royal diamond residence”.
The Phra Tamnak Lang and Phra Tamnak Chan were built over a century ago by order of King Chulalongkorn. Previously residences for high ranking monks, the buildings are now used for official functions.