Joanna James
Packed with grand temples, peaceful parks, busy nightlife and rich cultural diversity, Bangkok, the capital of Thailand is rated as one of the most visited cities in the world. For history enthusiasts exploring Southeast Asia, this city is a journey of discovery owing to the number of enigmatic palaces and mansions scattered throughout.
Located in the heart of Bangkok, this magnificent palace now houses a museum that holds royal artifacts. The architectural designs of the two main residences originated from the Rococo and Art Nouveau styles. Each residence belonged to Prince Paribatra Sukhumbandhu and Queen Sukhumala Marasri.
The Grand Palace is one of the most significant Attractions in Bangkok because it is home to Thailand's most visited temple, Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. This ancient monument was built in 1782 and was the royal residence of hundreds of Thai kings. The palace complex includes ornate buildings and halls adorned with historical murals and mosaics.
This mansion belonged to an American-born Thai businessman called Jim Thompson who discovered a community of traditional Thai weavers in Bangkok and developed the Thai silk industry. The house consists of six traditional Thai-style wooden buildings originating from 1959 and it houses an exquisite collection of Thai art and antiques.
This palace complex is home to several museums and cultural hotspots like the Vimanmek Teak Mansion which is the largest teakwood mansion in the world. Since the Dusit Palace is large, it is advisable to take a guided tour offered by the palace. You can use the same ticket you purchased for the Grand Palace for entrance. Staying at a hotel right in Bangkok like Gardina Asoke is the most practical way to explore these two palaces on the same day.
The front palace of Boworn Sathan Mongkol Mansion was constructed in 1887. Its front palace is home to the National Museum of Bangkok which is one of the largest museums in Southeast Asia. If you are a history lover, you can spend an entire day here as there's so much cultural heritage on display. The mansion's main attraction is Phra Phutta Sihing, a revered Buddha statue created in Sri Lanka in 157 AD.
Lert Sreshthaputra, or Nai Lert, translated as, "Mr. Lert", was the owner of Nai Lert Park Heritage Home. Nai Lert was Thailand's first developer who introduced the city's first bus system and Thailand's first ice cream factories. His home is a teak wood house built in 1915, surrounded by lush greenery. The grand opulence of the housing is further enriched by the museum filled with Nai Lert's accomplishments and keepsakes.
Just a two-hour drive from Bangkok, this palace is worth a day's visit. Originally built in 1632, it was restored in the 1880s by King Chulalongkorn who was inspired by European and French interior designs. You can see statues of cherubs in fusion with a Chinese-style royal palace and a vibrantly coloured lookout tower! Little canals run through the massive compound.
The Sukhothai Palace traces back to the 13th century and was the residence of King Prajadhipok and King Vahiralongkorn. It is currently the official royal residence of Princess Bajrakitiyabha and Princess Nariratana. The palace is not open to the public on weekends. Visitors can experience the grand splendour of the palace's three main buildings; Yai, Mai and Nam.
An hour's drive from Bangkok will bring you to the Sanam Chandra Palace in a small town called Nakhon Pathom. This palace was built in 1907 for a period of 9 years and is heavily influenced by architecture from the French Renaissance period. The palace complex has five residences and the palace grounds span over 335 acres. The well-manicured lawns with the lakeside and shady trees are ideal for strolls.
Made up of eight traditional Thai houses, this palace was home to Prince and Princess Chumbhot of Nagara Svagar. The palace complex has an exquisite collection of historical artifacts showcasing artwork by Princess Paribatra, 4000-year-old pottery from Ban Chiang, musical instruments, glassware and other antiques. The royal ambience of the grounds is further enhanced by the surrounding greenery.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
