Vimanmek Palace in Dusit Garden was the house of King Rama V. The former royal mansion displays collections of special Thai objects and artifacts. You can tour the stately house and its galleries, walk in the gardens and visit the museums to take in the atmosphere of past times.
Vimanmek Palace was constructed in 1900 at the request of King Rama V, who was inspired by European palaces. He implemented long, right-angled wings but used a typical Thai construction technique for the wooden walls. Rama V lived at Vimanmek for five years before moving to his final residence, Amporn Satarn Mansion. In 1982, Queen Sirikit saw that Vimanmek was renovated and turned into a museum to honour King Rama V.
Join an English-speaking tour to browse the 31 exhibition halls of the palace. View the first indoor bathroom in Thailand and find out why the swords in the weapons collection don’t have handles. Admire the first Thai portraits. Before King Rama V’s first European visit, portraits were believed to capture the soul and royals did not have them made.
Don’t miss the collection of photographs showcasing the early days of the Dusit Palace complex. Several museums within Dusit Garden display ancient pottery, oil paintings and old carriages. Entry to these museums is included in the palace admission price. You’ll pay extra to visit the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall, where you will find a variety of traditional arts and crafts.
Taking a taxi is by far the easiest way to get to Vimanmek Palace. You get free entry if you show your ticket from the Grand Palace within a week. The palace is open daily except Mondays and national public holidays. Check the times for the free daily dance performances. Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall is closed on Mondays.
Check what the appropriate dress standards are before you visit. You can’t enter with a camera, phone or bag, so expect to rent a locker to store these items during your visit.
