Trip to Thailand: The Historic Bang Pa In Palace (Summer Palace of the Kings of Thailand)

Ayutthaya Thailand is an old Siamese capital that served as a major trading port during the early days. Until today, the colorful and rich history of the place are very well preserved through its ancient temples and palaces.

The Bang Pa In Palace Entrance with marching royal guards

One of the destinations that by many tourists is the Bang-Pa-In Palace. It is not so far from the capital City Bangkok and lies along the banks of the Chaopraya River. The Bang Pa In is also called the Summer Palace of the Kings of Thailand that’s dates back to the 17th century. It was already established even before Bangkok was designates as the capital city. This palace has fallen into disuse and then revived in 19th century by King Mongkut (Rama IV). Today, this is regarded as one of the most visited spots in Ayutthaya and is commonly used for state occasions rather than as royal summer residence.

1. The Chinese Residence

This edifice was built in China with an all-Chinese architecture. It served as a gift to King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) by the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in 1889. This is open to the public and you will need to remove your shoes before entering.

Selfie with the "Chinese" Residence

Chinese Residence Side View

The Chinese Residence Back View

The Chinese Residence Entrance

Chinese Poems inside the Chinese Residence

2. The Varobhas Bimarn residence

You must dressed properly to enter this building. Inside you will see A formal throne room, with a less formal sitting room off to the side, and a large state dining room.

The Varobhas Bimarn residence under restoration

The Varobhas Bimarn residence front view

3. The Aisawan Dhiphya-Asana Pavilion

This pavilion houses a statue of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V). This is one of the most prominent display of Thai architecture within the Bang Pa In Palace. One of the purposes for building this pavilion was to divide the "public" outer area of the palace from the inner private areas.

The Aisawan Dhiphya-Asana Pavilion

The Aisawan Dhiphya-Asana Pavilion under restoration

4. Ho Withun Thasana, or Sages' Lookout

The observatory was built by King Chulalongkorn in 1881 as a lookout tower for viewing the surrounding countryside.

Ho Withun Thasana, or Sages' Lookout

Ho Withun Thasana, or Sages' Lookout beside the pond

Ho Withun Thasana, or Sages' Lookout beside the Chinese Residence

5. The main residence for the King and Queen

Unlike all the other structures inside the palace, this one is of European Style. This building is situated along an artificial ornamental pond where you can see lots of different plants and even wild animals roaming around.