A Hidden Gem in Thailand: Uncovering the Royal Oasis of the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace

As I stepped into the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, I felt like I'd stumbled upon a mirage. The tranquil atmosphere, the serene surroundings, and the cool breeze all seemed to transport me to a different world - one that was far removed from the bustling streets of Bangkok.

Bang Pa-In Summer PalaceThe palace is a unique blend of European neoclassicism and Eastern architecture, a testament to the innovative spirit of Thai King Rama V. This stunning park, built in the 17th century, was revamped by the previous king to cater to European delegations, and it's a resounding success.

Bang Pa-In Summer PalaceThis park has been around since the 17th century, but it was completely revamped by the previous Thai king. The idea was to create a park with multiple architectural styles, catering to European delegations - and it's a resounding success. This place is a must-visit for all high-profile guests in Thailand, and it's where they host receptions and close deals. Everything in this park is meticulously thought out, and you'll love it if you're visiting for the first time.

Bang Pa-In Summer Palace

Following traditional Thai custom, they even built a Catholic church for European guests, but it was never used and the statue of Christ was replaced with a Buddha statue.

I was fascinated to learn that Russian Emperor Nicholas II and his heir once stayed in these very same grounds at the beginning of the 20th century and were blown away by the place.

Welcome to the real-life royal park in Thailand!

Opening Hours: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, ticket sales stop at 3:30 PM.

Admission Fee: 100 baht (around $3)

Landscape in Bang Pa-In Park

The park itself is stunning - neatly paved pathways through lush green grass, complete with the usual green elephants and rabbits that look almost lifelike.

Landscapes in Bang Pa-In Park

Bang Pa-In landscapes Bang Pa-In landscapes There are several lakes in the park, and one of them is infamous around the world as the site of the most ridiculous death.

Summer residence of King Bang Pa-In

In the last century, a young Thai princess was heading to the royal palace in a boat and fell into the water. Her subjects watched as she drowned and cried for help, but didn't try to save her. In Thailand, there is a law against touching members of the royal family, even in life-threatening situations, and it carries the death penalty. The fear of her own life led to the death of another person.

The king didn't punish the guilty because there were no guilty parties.

In honor of the princess, a memorial plaque was installed in the park.

So, let's take a stroll with me in this amazing place and check out the most striking architectural objects that stuck with me the most.

✔ Vithoon Thasana Tower - Royal Observatory in Thailand

The observatory building stands out immediately as you enter the park, thanks to its brightness and height. It was built in the shape of a tower, and you can climb up to the top via a staircase, where there is an observation deck.

I imagine that the view from there is breathtaking, taking in the entire park area.

Bang Pa-In Royal Observatory building

The building was constructed in 1881. That's where the king likes to stargaze.

Unfortunately, access to the observation deck was not possible on the day I visited the park, as the observatory was closed.

The royal family spends the hottest time of the year in this residence, from March to May, so it's likely that many attractions will be closed during that time.

As you walk around the observatory, you can see that it was built on a peninsula:

Bang Pa-In Royal Observatory building Next, we head to the main attraction of the park - the bridge. It's unique and many compare it to the bridges of Versailles and Peterhof, although the comparison is not entirely fair and only shares a similar architectural style. Still, it's very beautiful and peaceful here, a welcome respite from the chaos of Bangkok.

Bridge adorned with Greek statues The bridge is decorated with several Greek statues: Melampus - Muses of Tragedy in Bang Pa-In Park Greek Statue of Cupid. Bridge with Greek Statues in Bang Pa-In Park✔ Phra Thinang Wehart Chamrun Pavilion was built in 1889 in a Chinese style. It's a gift from the Chinese emperor to the Thai king. Unfortunately, I didn't get to go inside, so I had to admire it from the outside.

Phra Thinang Wehart Chamrun

Phra Thinang Wehart Chamrun Pavilion. Traditional Chinese decorations on the facade

Phra Thinang Wehart ChamrunIn Chinese style, as a pagoda, several cozy pavilions have been built in the shaded corners of the park:

Chinese pavilions in the palace of Bang Pa-In Pavilion in Bang Pa-In Park

The building in the shape of a temple - the reception hall for foreign delegations - is the only building built in traditional Thai style:

Reception hall for foreign delegationsThe Royal Apartments don't look as luxurious as the rest of the park's objects. They were originally built from wood, but after a big fire, they were rebuilt from concrete:

The Royal Apartments in the residence of Bang Pa-InWalking between the park's objects is really enjoyable. The park's territory is huge, and if you want, you can rent a mini car with a driver for 350 baht (25 dollars). Bang Pa-In Summer Palace I felt like I was in a different world when I visited the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace. The tranquility and peacefulness of the place are hard to describe - it's a feeling I've only experienced in Jerusalem, and that's saying a lot.

The modern Buddha statue at Bang Pa-In Summer Palace

✔ Getting there to the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace and Wat Naphrameru:

• The palace is about 60 kilometers from Bangkok, and I took the train to get there. I boarded the 7:00 AM train from Hua Lamphong Station and got off at the Bang Pa-In Station, which is right next to the park. The train ride took about 40 minutes, and the ticket cost me 30 baht (around $1).

• You can also take the bus, which runs every 30 minutes from the Northern Bus Station in Bangkok (near Mo Chit Station). However, I preferred the train because it's much faster - the bus ride would take twice as long, and Bangkok traffic is unpredictable. The bus ticket costs the same as the train ticket. Both the bus and train will drop you off at the Bang Pa-In Station, and from there, it's a 2-kilometer walk to the park or you can take a motorbike for 20 baht.

• You can also take an excursion along the Chao Phraya River that includes a visit to Bang Pa-In.

• Many excursions to ancient Ayutthaya include a visit to this park.

✔ When visiting the park and temple, there are strict dress code requirements: you can't wear shoes, sunglasses, or hats inside the buildings, and you need to cover your knees and shoulders before entering the park.

Wearing open-toed shoes, ripped jeans, shorts, or short skirts is not allowed.

✔ Summary

I highly recommend visiting the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, if only because it's a unique experience that's unlike any other park in Thailand. You'll get to see a mix of traditional Thai, Chinese, and classical European architecture, which is a real treat. The park itself is beautiful, and I'd recommend getting there early to avoid the crowds. Try to avoid visiting during the Chinese New Year, if you can.

The temple, Wat Naphrameru, is right next to the palace, so you can easily visit both in one go.

Thanks for reading, and happy travels!

P.S. Here's more information about Bangkok's floating markets and a boat tour along the Chao Phraya River

P.S. You can also walk through Bangkok's central park, Lumpini, and see the huge monitor lizards

P.S. Here's a link to an article about my experience taking an elephant bath in Thailand on Koh Chang - it was a real thrill and a great way to enjoy the ocean.

P.S. If you're interested in learning more about Koh Wai, check out this article - it's a hidden gem and a great place to relax.