We like to write about destinations that not every ‘farang’ (the Thai term for foreigners) immediately has on their radar. Instead, we also focus on destinations that the Thais themselves like to visit.
The Bang Pa-in Palace is one such destination. Bang Pa-in Palace, also known as the ‘Summer Palace’ or ‘Bang Pa-in Royal Palace’, is a fascinating refuge of splendour and tranquillity, located just 60 kilometres north of Thailand’s vibrant capital.
It’s a beautiful royal residence located in the Ayutthaya Province of Thailand, it has a rich history dating back to the 17th century during the reign of King Prasat Thong. However, it was later expanded and renovated by King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) in the 19th century.
The palace complex comprises a number of impressive buildings built in very different architectural styles. Some in classical Thai, some in Chinese and some in European design.
The extensive, landscaped grounds are very well maintained. The European neoclassical-style buildings give the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace a little of the atmosphere of Versailles. You can easily spend a whole day at this picturesque and very photogenic place.
This place tells a story that stretches back centuries and was shaped by kings.
Welcome to an unforgettable excursion into the rich history and breathtaking beauty of Bang Pa-in Palace.
History and origins:
The history of the Royal Palace of Bang Pa-In dates back to the 17th century. According to a chronicle of Ayutthaya, King Prasat Thong (1629-1656) had a palace built on the island of Bang Pa-In in the Chao Phraya River.
Prasat Thong was the first king of the Prasat Thong dynasty, the fourth dynasty of the Siamese Ayutthaya kingdom.
There are different accounts of Prasat Thong’s origins. While traditional Thai historians assume that he was an illegitimate son of King Ekathotsarot, Jeremias van Vliet’s account states that he was a maternal cousin of King Songtham. He was born during the reign of King Naresuan around 1599 and was known for causing trouble in the royal court.
King Prasat Thong built the original complex in 1632, but unfortunately the palace fell into a state of disrepair. The complex was neglected, overgrown and forgotten by history.
It was not until the 19th century, during the reign of King Rama IV (King Mongkut), that the palace was rediscovered and restored. King Mongkut appreciated the historical significance of the palace and saw the potential to restore it to its former splendour. Later, under the care of King Rama V (King Chulalongkorn), the palace was expanded and transformed into an impressive blend of Thai and Western architecture that can be admired today.
The various buildings of Bang Pa-In Palace
Thai-style pavilion
The most famous is probably the Aisawan Thiphya-Art Sala (Thai-style pavilion) in a small lake, which is also known as ‘The Divine Seat of Personal Freedom’. This building was erected during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) in traditional Thai architecture and contains a statue of the king.
This is the only building on the palace grounds that was built in the traditional Thai architectural style. This royal hall is a copy of the Phra Thinang Aphonphimok Pavilion in the Grand Palace in Bangkok.
Heavenly light
Built in a completely different style is the Phra Thinang Wehart Chamrun, which means ‘Heavenly Light’. This two-storey Chinese-style mansion was a gift from the Chinese to King Chulalongkorn in 1889.
The throne room on the ground floor houses a Chinese-style throne, and on the second floor is a shrine in honour of King Mongkut and King Chulalongkorn. It is a beautiful building full of fine decorations, art and Chinese furniture.
Excellent and brilliant heavenly abode
The Phra Thinang Warophat Phiman or ‘Excellent and Shining Heavenly Abode’ is a one-storey royal mansion in neoclassical style. This building has a very European appearance and houses the throne hall. The interior of the building is richly decorated with beautiful paintings and conveys a very aristocratic feeling. Today, the villa is still used as private quarters for the royal family.
Viewpoint of the wise
The Ho Withun Tasana or ‘Lookout of the Wise’ was built by King Rama V in 1881. It resembles a lighthouse, painted in various red and yellow colours, and was used to observe the surroundings
Wat Niwet Thamprawat
Wat Niwet Thamprawat is actually a Buddhist temple, although it looks like a European cathedral in the Gothic style. It even has the colourful stained glass windows found in European cathedrals. The temple was built by King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), the first Siamese king to travel to Europe. The temple is located on the other side of the river and can be reached by cable car across the river.
Garden of the secured land
The Phra Thinang Uthayan Phumisathian or ‘Garden of Secured Land’ was built in 1877 and was the favourite residence of King Chulalongkorn. The original wooden building, which looked like a Swiss chalet, was completely destroyed by fire in 1938 and rebuilt at the end of the 20th century.
Bang Pa-in Palace is known for its stunning architecture and picturesque surroundings. Visitors will be amazed by the impressive pavilions, gardens and ponds.
A place of relaxation and contemplation
Bang Pa-in offers not only a visual experience, but also a relaxing environment. The extensive gardens, ponds and walkways invite visitors to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. The palace offers a soothing contrast to the bustling atmosphere of Bangkok and allows guests to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
How to reach the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace
The palace is located in the province of Ayutthaya, around 60 kilometres from Bangkok, and can be reached in various ways.
Taxi
The quickest and most convenient way is to take a private taxi. Most hotels in Bangkok can organise one for you or you can hail one on the street. Make sure to take a taxi with a taximeter.
Train
From Hua Lamphong railway station in Bangkok, you can reach Bang Pa-In station in around one and a half hours. There are shared taxis from the station to the palace for a small fee. Details of departure times and fares can be found on the State Railway of Thailand website.
Visit to the Bang Pa-in Palace
The Bang Pa-in Palace is open to the public. Visitors can explore most parts of the palace. The palace is open all year round.
Important note: Bang Pa-In Royal Palace is still the place of the royal family. You must honour the place by wearing appropriate clothing. No tank tops, no shorts. Shoulders must be covered. If you are wearing inappropriate clothing, you can hire clothes at the entrance for a small fee. The fee will be refunded upon return.
Opening hours: 8.30 bis 16.00 Uhr.
How much does a visit to Bang Pa-In Palace cost?
A ticket costs THB 100 for foreigners and THB 30 for Thai nationals. Golf carts can be hired for 450 Thai baht for the first hour and 100 baht per additional hour.
Our conclusion
All in all, if you’re near Bangkok, don’t miss the chance to explore Bang Pa-In Palace. It’s the perfect place to wander through beautiful gardens, admire a unique blend of architecture, and feel a connection to Thailand’s royal past. Visiting Bang Pa-In Palace isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about soaking up the peace and beauty of a place where history comes alive. We think you’ll leave feeling inspired and glad you went.
The tranquillity and beauty of this place invite you to relax and reflect, and its history tells a lot about Thailand’s rich cultural development.