Tipped to be one of Hua Hin’s most popular tourist attractions the summer palace of Klai Kangwon is a breathtaking point of interest like no other in Thailand. Built by none other than King Rajakhipok or King Rama VII who is also credited as the founder of the coastal hamlet of Hua Hin the venue served as a resplendent summer vacation home for the monarch, his queen HRH Rampai Phanee and other Thai royals since the late 1920’s. Constructed in 1927, the structure which still serves as a royal palace is also a popular attraction open to the public from 9am to 4pm every day.
Constructed in traditional European style the Klai Kangwon summer palace displays Spanish architectural leanings with its magnificent façade overlooking the ocean. Originally called Suan Klai Kang Won (The Garden Far From Worries) then later Phra Tamnak Piamsuk (The Royal Residence Full of Happiness) the palace and its tranquil surroundings indeed served as a welcome break from royal duties and the stresses of court life for the Thai royal family.
Having witnessed many a tumultuous period in Thai history the palace is associated with joyous occasions for the royal family as well as times of political unrest and uncertainty. The People’s Party’s coup for democracy and the abolition of an absolute monarchy is closely linked with the palace as the political party’s message to the monarch was delivered to this very location and Thailand’s transition to a constitutional monarchy is forever linked to the palace as a result. In April, 1950 the current monarch King Bhumipol Aduldej and his new Queen Sirikitt famously spent five days of their honeymoon at this idyllic palace as well.
The picturesque and impeccably maintained ornamental gardens of the palace are some of its most appealing attributes with various plant varieties from Java and other aesthetic elements decorate its already enthralling appearance. A shell museum is also part of the landscape and the institution displays a vibrant collection of seashells collected from the area over the decades.
Visitors in search of a luxury beach hotel in Hua Hin will be more than satisfied with the stylish Anantara Hua Hin Thailand Resort. Offering guests all the comforts of a five star resort in a tropical setting this resplendent rest is one of the most picturesquely located Hua Hin hotels in the region.