Phra Tamnak Than Kasem, or the Royal Pavilion of the Blissful Stream, is in Khun Khlon Sub-district, between the Bangkok Bank, Phra Phutthabat Branch, and Saraburi Girl’s Home, on the banks of Than Thong Daeng. This stream runs through Phra Phutthabat and is surrounded by abundant trees.
It is a small but historically significant archaeological site, whose importance lies less in surviving architecture than in the evidence it preserves of Ayutthaya royal pilgrimage, the landscape around the sacred Buddha's Footprint, and historic water engineering. A dedicated residence provided the king with accommodation during visits to this religious centre. Its position beside a stream also offered a naturally shaded setting.
The royal pavilion was built in 1633 CE during the reign of King Prasat Thong (1629-1656 CE) as a residence for his royal visit to pay respects to Phra Phutthabat. The foundations of the royal pavilion, made of brick and cement, remain nowadays. The Royal Chronicles of Ayutthaya record King Prasat Thong's command to build the pavilion.
"In the twelfth month the King in His holy compassion commanded, “After the season when the populace harvests rice is over, we would proceed to venerate the Footprint of the Holy Buddha. Have craftsmen taken up to prepare a holy residence below Copper Stream, and have them run water in from Copper Stream for pleasure. And as for the way by the land route from the Landing of the Lord’s Pleasure right on up to the rear of the phikun trees—figure out a way to provide water and pavilions at intervals so that people can take shelter.” [1]
