As a Thai citizen, I have always been fascinated by the glamorous and opulent lifestyle of our Royal Family. Thailand's monarchy has a long and storied history, steeped in tradition and cultural significance. From glittering palace ceremonies to stunning public appearances, the lives of our royal family members are often shrouded in mystery and intrigue. One of the most fascinating aspects of their life is their remarkable opulent homes that are often hidden from public view.
While most of us will never be able to step inside these highly secured residences and buildings, the luxury and extravagance that they portray are enough to make anyone's jaw drop. The sheer size, intricacy and grandiosity of these residences leave even the most seasoned traveler in awe. In this blog post, I will try to give you a glimpse into the glorious world of Thailand's Royal Family by taking you inside their opulent homes.
From the grandeur of the Grand Palace in Bangkok to the quiet beauty of the Bang Pa-In Palace, the royal family's residences vary in size and architectural style. With each lavish palace holding a unique piece of history, you will discover secrets and fascinating tales behind each building that make them even more intriguing. So, let's dive in and explore the majestic world of Thailand's Royal Family by peeking inside their over-the-top luxurious homes.
Grand Palace in Bangkok
The Grand Palace in Bangkok is undoubtedly one of the most prominent attractions in the Thai capital and the official residence of the King of Thailand since the 18th century. The Grand Palace complex has numerous buildings, halls, and pavilions, showcasing the best of Thai architecture and culture.
Inside the Grand Palace, visitors can see the Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall, which is one of the most elegant and impressive buildings in the palace. It is used for coronations and other royal ceremonies. Visitors can also see the Grand Palace Hall, which was once the home of King Chulalongkorn, King Rama V. This building has a grand reception room, a throne room, and many chambers decorated with exquisite Thai art and furnishings.
The Inner Palace is where the current King of Thailand, King Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X), resides. It is not open to the public, but visitors can catch a glimpse of it while exploring the Grand Palace complex. The Inner Palace has a large Throne Hall, a royal residence, a chapel, and many smaller halls and buildings that serve various functions.
Visitors to the Grand Palace should dress appropriately and respectfully as it remains a significant and sacred place for the Thai people. Shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing clothing are not allowed, and visitors must remove their shoes before entering the buildings.
Dusit Palace in Bangkok
Dusit Palace is a complex of several palaces and mansions located in the Dusit district of Bangkok and built by King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) as his residence and as a retreat from the hot weather and noise of the city. The complex has been renovated and expanded by subsequent kings, and it now functions as a museum, showcasing the art and architecture of the Thai monarchy.
Inside Dusit Palace, visitors can see the Amarin Winitchai Throne Hall, which is the primary audience hall of the King. It is a large, ornate building with a marble throne and brightly painted walls and ceilings. Visitors can also explore Vimanmek Mansion, the largest golden teakwood mansion in the world. Built-in 1901, this grand mansion has 81 rooms, three stories high, and has been restored to its original condition.
One of the highlights of a visit to Dusit Palace is the Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall, which was built to commemorate the 40th anniversary of King Rama V's accession to the throne. This stunning hall is decorated with gilded carvings, murals, and intricate reliefs, and it houses many royal treasures, including thrones, crowns, and other regalia.
Chitralada Palace in Bangkok
Chitralada Palace serves as the official residence of King Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X) and his family in Bangkok. It is located in the heart of Bangkok, near Dusit Palace, and was built-in 1913 by King Rama VI as a residence for his son, the future King Rama VII.
While Chitralada Palace is the official residence of the current king, it is closed to the public. However, visitors can still see the stunning palace from the outside and admire its lush gardens and intricate architecture. The palace is a perfect blend of Thai and European styles and is surrounded by lush gardens and a man-made lake. It is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in Bangkok, and it reflects the elegance and refinement of Thailand's royal family.
Klai Kangwon Palace in Hua Hin
Klai Kangwon Palace is a summer palace located in the coastal town of Hua Hin, about 200 kilometers south of Bangkok. The palace was built-in 1929 by King Rama VII as a retreat for himself and his family and is still a favorite summer residence for the current King and his family.
Klai Kangwon Palace is an impressive example of Thai-style architecture, featuring a blend of European and Thai designs. The palace has numerous buildings, including the throne hall, residential quarters, a guest house, a library, and a sports complex. The palace grounds are lushly landscaped, with a beautiful garden filled with tropical plants and flowers.
Visitors to Klai Kangwon Palace can see the palace from the outside and take a stroll around the beautifully landscaped gardens. The palace is open to the public only twice a year, during the King's and Queen's birthdays. Visitors can catch a glimpse of the royal family as they greet the public from the balcony of the palace.
Bang Pa-In Palace in Ayutthaya
Bang Pa-In Palace is a former royal residence located in Ayutthaya Province, about 60 kilometers north of Bangkok. The palace was built by King Prasat Thong in the 17th century and was used as a summer residence for the Thai Kings.
Inside Bang Pa-In Palace, visitors can see the Chinese-style Wehart Chamrun Palace, which was built by King Chulalongkorn in the late 19th century. The palace has a central throne room, two side pavilions, and a tower with a marble staircase. Visitors can also see the elegant Thai-style Aisawan Thiphya-Art Royal Residence, built-in 1876 by King Chulalongkorn, which sits on a small island in the middle of a pond and features intricate carvings and a beautiful golden roof.
Bang Pa-In Palace has many beautiful gardens and water features, including a lotus pond, a rock garden, and a tall fountain. Visitors can take a boat ride around the palace grounds and enjoy the scenic beauty of the palace.
Bhubing Palace in Chiang Mai
Bhubing Palace is a royal residence located in the Doi Buak Ha mountain range, about 1,000 meters above sea level in Chiang Mai Province. The palace was built by King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) in 1961 as a winter residence for the King and his family.
Inside Bhubing Palace, visitors can see the grand reception hall, the king's bedroom, the queen's bedroom, and other residential quarters that are filled with elegant Thai art and furnishings. Visitors can also see the beautiful flower gardens surrounding the palace, which features a wide variety of species, including roses, orchids, and petunias.
Unlike many other royal residences in Thailand, Bhubing Palace is open to the public when the Royal Family is not in residence. Visitors can tour the palace and admire its elegant design and beautiful gardens.
Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall in Bangkok
Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall is a grand building located in the heart of Bangkok, near the Dusit Palace. The hall was completed in 1915 and was used for royal ceremonies, including the opening of parliament and other state functions.
Inside Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall, visitors can see the grand hall with its soaring ceilings and massive chandeliers, which is flanked by two side galleries decorated with murals depicting Thai history. Visitors can also see the second-floor balcony, where the King would sit during state ceremonies, and the 160 portraits of the Kings of Siam and Thailand, which line the walls of the hall.
Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall is now a museum and a popular destination for tourists, both local and international. Visitors can admire the stunning architecture and learn about the history of the Thai royal family.
