Bowonniwet Vihara Temple is one of the main Buddhist temples in Phra Nakorn; the Old City of Bangkok and was constructed in the mid-19th century during the reign of King Jessadabodindra (Rama III). It has long been a temple of patronage for Thailand's royal family of the Chakri Dynasty; including King Mongkut (Rama IV); and King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX). In 1836; before becoming king; Mongkut was the abbot. The present King of Thailand; Bhumibol Adulyadej; resided here as a monk for a short period.