Regarded as one of Bangkok’s most iconic palace structures, the Vimanmek Mansion is a teak architectural marvel for the ages. Built by King Rama V this former royal palace located within the Dusit Palace compound has been a permanent fixture in the Thai capital since 1900 when it was constructed.
Inspired by the many European castles King Rama visited during a tour abroad in 1897 the monarch first commissioned the building of a sprawling garden in the areas between the Samsen and the Padung Krungkasem which mainly consisted of paddy fields and other orchards. Dubbed the Dusit Garden the palace which now occupies its confines was added in the year 1900 not as a novel construction but a reassembly of the Munthatu Rattanaroj Residence in Chonburi district’s Chuthathuj Rachathan which was dismantled from its original base and reassembled in Bangkok. Completed without the employment of a single nail the teak structure boasts an amalgamation of traditional Thai architectural elements and European neoclassical leanings with a touch of 20th century decorative styles influencing its interiors.
Known globally as the largest mansion constructed in golden teakwood the venue was converted in to a museum and repository of Thai heritage under the decree of Queen Sirikit in the early1980’s. Showcasing many royal relics including gifts and other collectibles acquired by King Chulalongkorn during his travels in Europe the venue celebrates the life and times of King Rama V with ancient photographs, crafts and personal art collections of the monarch on show.
The exquisitely maintained rooms within the palace also contain prized porcelain items, antique furnishings and stunning glassware that highlight the opulence of Thai ruling dynasties while the rooms themselves maintain an air of dignity as homage to centuries past.
Certain quarters of the mansion are employed for state functions while visiting royals and dignitaries are also entertained at the locale. Guided tours in English are available at the venue in addition to a cultural show with Thai dancing that takes place twice a day. Visitors should take care to follow a modest dress code when visiting the Vimanmek Palace as strict guidelines are in place with regards to attire.
Travellers on the lookout for a luxury hotel in Bangkok should look to the Metropolitan Bangkok for all their accommodation needs. Providing guests with the best in modern amenities and facilities this conveniently located Bangkok luxury hotel is well-suited for both holidaymakers and business travellers.
Nigel Walters is a travel writer, who writes under the pen name, Fritzjames Stephen. His content is based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+