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Everything You Need to Know about Bang Pa In Palace
- Where is Bang Pa In Palace?
- Things to Know
- How to Get to Bang Pa In Palace
- What to See and Do in Bang Pa In Palace
- Stroll around the palace grounds
- Admire Aisawan-Dhipaya-Asana Pavilion’s architecture
- Check out the unique Wehart Chamrun Throne Hall
- Enjoy the view from Withun Thasana Tower’s observation deck
- Visit the Varopat Piman Throne Hall
- See the Phumi Sathian Park Throne Hall
- Drop by the Hem Montian Thewarat Tower
- Cross the Chao Phraya River to Wat Niwet
- Where to Eat and Drink in and Near Bang Pa In Palace
- Rak Bang Pa-In Cafe
- Ton Nam Restaurant
- The Artisans Ayutthaya
- Where to Shop in and Near Bang Pa In Palace
- Kong Khong Market
- Premium Outlet Ayutthaya
- Ayutthaya City Park
- Where to Stay in and Near Bang Pa In Palace
- Sala Bang Pa-In
- Mayuu Ayutthaya Hotel
- Sala Ayutthaya Boutique Hotel
- FAQs about Bang Pa In Palace
Bang Pa In Palace is also known as the Summer Palace. As its name suggests, it used to be a summer retreat for Thai Kings.
Now, it’s a popular tourist destination for its beautiful sights and history. This complex is home to opulent buildings, from grand temples to beautiful pavilions of traditional Thai, European, and Chinese architectural styles.
The palace grounds are also a destination in itself, with its large fish and turtle-filled lake and charming landscaped gardens.
Steeped in history and royal tradition, Bang Pa In Palace is a great start for any Ayutthayan trip!
Where is Bang Pa In Palace?
The Bang Pa In Palace is on the south side of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. There’s the Chao Phraya River to its left and Wat Kamphaeng to its right.
Things to Know
Operating Hours: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Daily)
Contact Number: +66 35 261 044
Admission Cost: 100 baht
How to Get to Bang Pa In Palace
Taxi: Riding a taxi from Bangkok to Bang Pa In Palace is your best option. Though the price is expensive, taxis can drop you off directly at the palace’s entrance which is convenient.
Plus, taxis are fast since they can get you to the palace in approximately 45 minutes.
Train: Train tickets from Bangkok are extremely cheap so it’s a great way to get to Bang Pa In Palace in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. There’s also a train station in Bang Pa In District so you don’t have to travel far to reach the palace.
Bangkok trains to Bang Pa In are available at Hua Lamphong Train Station and depart 3 times daily. With this method, you can get to Bang Pa In Palace in approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Rental Car: Driving a rental car from Bangkok to Bang Pa In Palace is also a great alternative. For this method, you only need an International Driving Permit and a driver’s license to rent a vehicle in the capital city.
From Bangkok, the drive is also straightforward since you only need to head north via Highway 1 and Highway 32. Along Highway 32, turn left to Highway 308 and keep going until you see a small Tesco Lotus Mart on your left-hand side.
There’s a narrow street on the right just before this Tesco Lotus Mart which leads directly to Bang Pa In Palace.
What to See and Do in Bang Pa In Palace
Stroll around the palace grounds
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Though Bang Pa In Palace is mostly known for its elegant buildings, the atmosphere inside the complex definitely makes it more fun to stroll around. For one, it’s not packed with tourists so you can soak in the peaceful scenery while sightseeing there.
Plus, the property has lines of trees and charming landscaped gardens, so it feels like you’re close to nature. We also love the palace’s serene lake which is home to numerous turtles and fish.
You can also buy bread at the stalls along the lake if you like to feed these friendly animals. They also have rental golf carts if you prefer to explore the palace complex on wheels.
Admire Aisawan-Dhipaya-Asana Pavilion’s architecture
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Aisawan-Dhipaya-Asana Pavilion is arguably the most elegant and picturesque building in Bang Pa In Palace, especially since it’s in the middle of the lake. It’s also the only building within the palace complex with a full-on Thai architectural style.
This pavilion was built during King Rama V’s reign so it has his statue in a Field Marshal attire. It’s also the final resting place of the king’s beloved daughter Princess Srivilailaksana after her untimely passing in 1904.
In case you didn’t know, this building is a replica of the Grand Palace’s Phra Thinang Aphorn Phimok Pavilion built by King Rama IV. That’s why it has the same gilded architectural design, multi-tiered roof, and extended central spire.
Check out the unique Wehart Chamrun Throne Hall
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The Wehart Chamrun Throne Hall is one of the more unique buildings you’ll find during your tour of Bang Pa In Palace. It has a striking Chinese architectural style since it was constructed by China’s version of the Chamber of Commerce as a gift to King Rama V.
This building has two floors—the first is a Chinese-style throne room while the second is a shrine honoring King Rama IV and King Rama V. The throne room features ornate tiles, blackwood furnishings, and intricate wood carvings with a red lacquer coating.
Meanwhile, the second-floor shrine’s most notable features are the name plates for the two Thai kings.
Enjoy the view from Withun Thasana Tower’s observation deck
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The Withun Thasana Tower isn’t as stunning as Bang Pa In Palace’s other buildings, but it’s definitely worth checking out for its view. It has an observation deck overlooking the palace complex’s lake and the surrounding buildings.
That makes it an excellent vantage point if you want to take photos of the other buildings from a higher angle. This tower has a notably whimsical color combination which helps it stand out among the palace’s buildings.
If you have a wide-angle lens, you can capture a great worm’s-eye view photo of this tower.
Visit the Varopat Piman Throne Hall
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Varopat Piman Throne Hall, also known as Phra Thinang Warophat Phiman, is a gorgeous European-style building in Bang Pa In Palace. It has a distinct neoclassical architectural style, evident from its dramatic front columns and simple geometric form.
However, its biggest draws are its reception hall and royal entertainment room. There, you can find incredible oil paintings, poetic verses, and detailed historical accounts about the Thai royal family.
Next to it is a charming pergola with a direct lake view and thick vines growing on its wooden frame.
See the Phumi Sathian Park Throne Hall
Phumi Sathian Park Throne Hall is a simple European-style building. It features a round base structure with numerous arch windows and a crenelated neo-gothic-style tower slightly sticking out on top.
In case you didn’t know, this throne hall used to be a two-story wooden building resembling traditional Swiss-chalet architecture. However, it burned down by accident during repairs so it had to be reconstructed with a new design.
In fact, its neo-gothic tower is the original building’s water tank, and it’s also the only part that stayed after the reconstruction.
Drop by the Hem Montian Thewarat Tower
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Hem Montian Thewarat Tower is a small Khmer-style shrine next to an ancient bodhi tree surrounded by four cenotaphs. It has a small prang facing Wat Niwet and a cramped interior enshrining a Buddha statue.
King Rama V ordered the construction of this shrine after the boat accident that killed Queen Consort Sunanda Kumariratana and her daughter. The cenotaphs are for Princess Consort Saovabhark Nariratana and her three children who all died in 1887.
Cross the Chao Phraya River to Wat Niwet
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Address: Chao Phraya River, Ban Len
Phone: +66 35 262 139
Operating Hours:
- 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Monday – Friday)
- 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Saturday – Sunday)
A visit to Bang Pa In Palace won’t be complete without stopping by Wat Niwet. It’s a unique Buddhist temple with a distinct Gothic-revival style typical of European Christian churches.
That’s why it has a high ceiling and large arched windows with colorful stained glass. This temple is on a small island in the middle of the Chao Phraya River so you must ride the cable car south of the palace to reach it.
Where to Eat and Drink in and Near Bang Pa In Palace
Rak Bang Pa-In Cafe
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Address: 89 Ban Len
Phone: +66 94 862 9987
Pricing: ฿
Operating Hours:
- 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Monday – Friday)
- 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. (Saturday – Sunday)
Good to know: Good for sweet tooths
Rak Bang Pa-In Cafe is a solid option if you have a serious sweet tooth. This cafe is also next to the cable car in Wat Niwet, so it’s a great place for a quick snack or drink during your palace and temple tour.
It has an airy interior with a stunning view of the Chao Phraya River, perfect for enjoying their selection of coffees, teas, smoothies, sodas, milks, and cakes. Their alfresco riverside garden dining area and comfy outdoor cushions with parasols are a plus.
Ton Nam Restaurant
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Address: 26/7 Ban Len
Phone: +66 35 261 006
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating Hours: 10 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. (Daily)
Good to know: Good for seafood
Tom Nam Restaurant is a popular riverside seafood spot south of Bang Pa In Palace. It’s only a 12-minute walk or a 3-minute drive from the palace complex, so it’s a great option when you’re quickly looking for a full meal.
This restaurant excels in grilled seafood but its extensive menu also includes steamed, fried, and soupy seafood dishes. In fact, they also serve classic non-seafood Thai dishes so they’re all about variety.
Our favorite is their signature grilled river prawns which they serve with their signature seafood sauce. It’s also worth noting that they’re included in Thailand’s 2024 Michelin Guide, so the food quality is top-notch.
The Artisans Ayutthaya
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Address: 42/1 Moo 4, Ban Run
Phone: +66 61 195 9514
Pricing: ฿฿฿
Operating Hours: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. (Daily)
Good to know: Good for Thai fine dining
The Artisans Ayutthaya is a stylish Thai fine-dining restaurant with traditional-style rustic interiors, so it’s definitely worth the 15-minute drive from Bang Pa In Palace. They focus on authentic Thai dishes served in elegant fine-dining-style presentations.
For a more luxurious experience, reserve one of their private VIP rooms where their staff will pamper you during your stay. However, you must book in advance to experience their exclusive fine-dining offering.
Where to Shop in and Near Bang Pa In Palace
Kong Khong Market
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Address: 68, 12, Khanon Luang
Phone: +66 35 703 700
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating Hours: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Thursday – Sunday)
Good to know: Good for local products
Khong Khong Market is a riverside market known for shops selling local handicrafts, clay pots, and affordable kitchenware. It’s only a 9-minute drive from Bang Pa In Palace, and you can swing by on your way to the city center after your tour.
You’ll also find shops selling fresh produce, accessories, packed snacks, bamboo utensils, wooden Buddha figures, traditional medicine, street food, and more.
Premium Outlet Ayutthaya
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Address: 95 Moo 4 Klongjig
Phone: +66 35 747 474
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating Hours: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. (Monday – Sunday)
Good to know: Good for families and budget shoppers
Premium Outlet is a modern shopping mall 8 kilometers from Bang Pa In Palace. It focuses on outlet stores for famous brands, so it’s a great place to shop for below-retail price goods.
Think clothes, shoes, bags, home furnishings, toys, beauty products, and more. The sneakerheads on our team say this is the best place to shop for shoe brands like Adidas, Nike, Rebook, and Puma since they often have huge sale promotions.
You can also find outlet stores for high-end brands like Chanel, Celine, Gucci, and more. All in all, there are over 40 shops to choose from so you might want to allocate more than just an hour here if you’re planning to shop.
Ayutthaya City Park
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Address: 126 Moo 3, Sai Asia Road, Khlong Suan Phlu
Phone: +66 35 801 919
Pricing: ฿฿฿
Operating Hours: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. (Monday – Sunday)
Good to know: Good for families
Though located in the city center, this large shopping mall is definitely worth the 16-minute drive from Bang Pa In Palace. Ayutthaya City Park has over 500 stores, perfect for all your shopping needs.
There’s also a large food court, cinema, convention hall, and futsal arena, so your family is covered for food, entertainment, and other curiosities. In short, visiting this place should coverall your basic needs.
Where to Stay in and Near Bang Pa In Palace
Sala Bang Pa-In
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Address: 10 / 9-10-10 Moo 6, Bangkasun
Phone: +66 35 246 388
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating Hours: 3 p.m. (Check-in)
Good to know: Good for couples and families
Sala Bang Pa-In is an upscale riverside hotel featuring modern decked-out rooms with chic interiors and balconies overlooking the Chao Phraya River. With a room upgrade, you can also get a viewing deck, a private pool, and a modern espresso machine.
If you’re vacationing with your family, you can opt for a suite and villa with a spacious living area, extra bed options, a BBQ facility, and an in-suite spa. The hotel’s location is also convenient since it’s only an 8-minute drive to Bang Pa In Palace.
There’s also an outdoor pool and a romantic restaurant with a stunning riverside terrace. That should give you a panoramic view of the Chao Phraya River that’s bound to leave you in a good mood.
Mayuu Ayutthaya Hotel
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Address: 99 Moo 7, Khlong Suan Phlu
Phone: +66 99 423 5935
Pricing: ฿ – ฿฿
Operating Hours: 2 p.m. (Check-in) & 12 p.m. (Check-out)
Good to know: Good for couples and families
Mayuu Ayutthaya Hotel is a stylish hotel with airy, modern, and minimalist Muji-style rooms. Location-wise, it’s approximately 15 kilometers from Bang Pa In Palace, but it’s close to the city center which is a plus.
This is a great place for serious travelers who want easy access to the palace and other popular attractions within the province. Their largest accommodation is a triple-bed room, perfect for small families on vacation.
Sala Ayutthaya Boutique Hotel
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Address: 9, 2 Moo 4, U Thong Road, Pratu Chai Sub-district
Phone: +66 35 242 588
Pricing: ฿฿ – ฿฿฿
Operating Hours: 3 p.m. (Check-in) & 12 p.m. (Check-out)
Good to know: Good for couples
If you want to stay within the city center, the Sala Ayutthaya Boutique Hotel is an excellent option. It’s a picturesque hotel with stunning brick and ivory motifs and an awe-inspiring view of the Chao Phraya River and Wat Putthaisawan.
Their swanky rooms have airy interiors and modern amenities like minibars, iPod docks, smart TVs, and tea and coffeemakers. Their upgraded rooms have private terraces and better river views while their suites add living spaces, loft bedrooms, and plunge pools.
This hotel also has an on-site art gallery, a massage room, and a riverside restaurant with an alfresco dining deck and dramatic temple views. Of course, the downside to all the comfort is you will have to deal with the heftier room price tag.
