The Bang Pa-In Palace lies on the banks of the Chao Praya River some 60 kilometres north of Bangkok. The Original summer palace dates back to the late Ayutthaya period, in the reign of King Prasat Thong. In 1632 he had a palace built here as a summer retreat. The oldest of the buildings is the Pra Thinang Aisawan Thipphaya-Art, a formal pavilion surrounded by royal residences. Soon after, a Buddhist monastery, Wat Chumphon Nikayaram, was erected in memory of the King's mother who was a native of the area. The hall was used to conduct some of the royal ceremonies. The place remained a popular summer retreat until the end when the capital moved from Ayutthaya to Bangkok.
I was amazed at the architecture of Aisawan Thippaya-Art in its water setting (picture 1) and Tavaraj Kanlai Gate (picture 2), and climbed to the observation tower inside Ho Withun Thasana (pictures 3 and 4) for the most incredible view across the Palace grounds. Whilst taking a photo by the water's edge I happened to turn and glimpse a huge water monitor making its way up the bank behind me. The grounds were immaculate and I was intrigued by the topiary. I find myself saying this quite often, but this is a tourist destination not to be missed. If you intend visiting Ayutthaya Historical Park, do ensure that you take in Bang Pa-In Palace as well. You'll be glad you made the time.
I was amazed at the architecture of Aisawan Thippaya-Art in its water setting (picture 1) and Tavaraj Kanlai Gate (picture 2), and climbed to the observation tower inside Ho Withun Thasana (pictures 3 and 4) for the most incredible view across the Palace grounds. Whilst taking a photo by the water's edge I happened to turn and glimpse a huge water monitor making its way up the bank behind me. The grounds were immaculate and I was intrigued by the topiary. I find myself saying this quite often, but this is a tourist destination not to be missed. If you intend visiting Ayutthaya Historical Park, do ensure that you take in Bang Pa-In Palace as well. You'll be glad you made the time.
Click on images to enlarge
