Palaces in Bangkok
Coming from a modern city with ‘zilch’ palaces whatsoever, this part of Bangkok interests me. Most of them were built during the period of Bangkok’s absolute monarchy, from 1782 to 1932, to house the royal family and its offspring.
Only a few of them are still used as royal residences, and even fewer are opened to public. (And unfortunately, many have also been torn down.)
Here are a few palaces which you “can visit to some degree”, or at least you could catch sight of its exterior as you whiz past in your tuk-tuk.
Vimanmek Mansion
Located in the old Dusit Palace grounds
King Taksin's Palace
Built by King Taksin next to Wat Arun (“The Temple of the Dawn”). Today, the palace is part of the headquarters of the Royal Thai Navy. But it’s rarely open to western visitors.
The Grand Palace
The Grand Palace was one of the first buildings constructed by King Rama I when he established a new capital at Bangkok
Tha Phra Palace
Built next to The Grand Palace for a nephew of King Rama I. Today, it is part of the campus of Silpakorn University, where it now serves as the campus art museum.
Bahn Moh Palace
In 1832, a fire destroyed many palaces and buildings in the area, leading to the 22nd son of King Rama II, building this palace in this place.
The Front Palace
Built at the same time as the Grand Palace, this palace has now been converted into the National Museum.
Saranarom Palace
This palace was built by Rama IV in 1866.
Phayathai Palace
Built by King Rama V as a ‘country cottage’ to spend weekends with his wife, Queen Saowabha. So romantic ...
