One of Asia’s most exotic destinations, Thailand is world-renown for its golden Buddhist temples, bustling markets and oriental-style royal palaces. Suan Pakkad Palace is one of Thailand’s most beautiful royal palaces offering visitors a glimpse of Thailand’s rich history. Situated near many a serviced apartment Bangkok has to offer, Suan Pakkad Palace is easily accessible from the city centre and a pleasant place to spend an afternoon.

Open throughout the week, Suan Pakkad Palace lies minutes away from popular Bangkok apartments including Somerset Park Suanplu Bangkok. The former abode of Prince Chumbhot, the Suan Pakkad Palace compound comprises of a collection of traditional Thai buildings and beautiful landscaped gardens. Named after the humble cabbage garden which occupied the land before the palace’s construction, today the complex includes seven interlinked buildings dedicated to showcasing the prized collections of its revered owners.

One of Bangkok’s must-visit museums, Suan Pakkad Palace has something for everyone. History-lovers can gain insight into the Thai royal family by admiring the vast collection of family portraits held in House 1 alongside religious artefacts and model boats while the beautiful ivory boxes, ceramics and mother-of-pearl inlaid bowls housed in museums 2 and 3 will undoubtedly draw the eyes of female visitors. Examine Princess Chumbhot’s collection of minerals in House 4 before visiting Houses 5 and 6 which exhibit 13th century Ban Chiang pottery and ceramics.

Relics of Ban Chiang culture can be found in museum 3 which houses traditional Thai instruments and House 7 which displays Khon masks and costumes used in classical Thai dance performances. More rare antiquities are showcased at the Marsi Gallery which sits beside the 200 year-old Lacquer Pavilion famous for its gold-and-black lacquer murals that depict Lord Buddha’s life and the Ramayana epic. An extraordinary masterpiece, the Lacquer Pavilion was transported to Suan Pakkad Palace compound from a riverside monastery near the historical Ayutthaya city. Before you depart, take time to admire the surrounding gardens and marvel at this timeless piece of Thai history in the middle of a modern city.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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The Suan Pakkad Palace formally belonged to the prince and princess of Chumbhot. In 1952 they decided to convert their residence into a museum and allow the whole world to see and admire the true beauty of Thailand royalty. This amazing museum with its striking building that contains ancient artefacts and fine arts attracts hundreds of travellers as well as locals.

Suan Pakkad Palace houses four traditional Thai houses with a covered hallway between them. Later a number of houses were added to the museum providing more value to it. Each house contains different items which once belonged to the royal family. As such the first house displays an interesting collection of musical instruments like rare xylophones, three-stringed fiddles drums and gongs. The up stair of the first house is filled with relics of different periods of Thai and Southeast Asia while the portrait of Rama V and the three images of Buddha grab the main spotlight.

In the second and third houses visitors could see a remarkable scripture that portrays the life of Lord Buddha, silverware, porcelain and food containers, antiques that showcase decorative items and furniture from the daily lives of the royals. Among the many interesting pieces, the throne that once belonged to the great aunt of Prince Chumbhot stands out as the masterpiece of the museum. The Buddhist influence is featured from the forth house with its innumerable Buddha images found from different periods of Thai history.

Another significant feature of the Suan Pakkad Palace is the Lacquer Pavilion located in the main garden. The cultural experience offered is simply breathtaking. So if you are in the neighbourhood do not forget to visit this wonderful site and discover the cultural greatness of Thailand.

While you explore this enchanting country stay at a Bangkok resort that will make your vacation even more memorable. Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa is one of the best 5 star hotels in Bangkok that will offer you excellent service and facilities. Come and enjoy a stay in ultimate comfort and get pampered to your heart’s content as you explore this lively city which offers a truly enthralling experience amidst colourful local culture and lively entertainment.

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.

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