Wat Phra Kaew Wang Na 2026: Open for Tours Until Sep 20

History enthusiasts and cultural explorers have a limited-time opportunity to visit Wat Bowon Sathan Sutthawat, commonly known as Wat Phra Kaew Wang Na. The Fine Arts Department has opened the historic site for free public visits through September 20, 2026, requiring no advance registration or admission fees.

Situated within the grounds of the Bunditpatanasilpa Institute in the Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang sub-district, Phra Nakhon district, Bangkok, the temple is located near Thammasat University's Tha Phra Chan gate. Historically part of the Front Palace (Wang Na), this temple shares a unique status with the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) as it was built within royal palace grounds and houses no resident monks. Today, the venue continues to host traditional performing arts ceremonies such as Wai Khru for classical dancers and musicians.

The site originally began as "Wat Luang Chi" established during the reign of King Rama I, before being dismantled during the reign of King Rama II to serve as a rabbit garden. Later, Krom Phra Ratchawang Bowon Sathan Mongkhon (Lord Front Palace) during the reign of King Rama III commissioned a new temple to accumulate religious merit following the suppression of the Vientiane rebellion, naming it Wat Bowon Sathan Sutthawat. Construction was later completed under the reigns of King Rama IV and Krom Muen Itsaretrangsan.

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event

The architectural centerpiece is its large cruciform ubosot (ordination hall) perched upon a three-tiered base. Its colored tile roof features distinctive "fish-mouth" gable boards (cho fa), setting it apart from the traditional bird-beak designs seen in the Grand Palace architecture. Inside, visitors can admire the standing Buddha statue in the gesture of pacifying ocean waves.

Another major highlight is the extensive mural paintings covering all four interior walls, created by royal artisans during the reign of Rama IV. The artworks depict Buddhist history, celestial assemblies, the Phra Phuttha Sihing legend, and historical beliefs. Additionally, the doors and windows feature intricate motifs depicting deities, the Ramakien epic, the Ten Avatars of Vishnu, and the Natyashastra.