King's Summer Palace in Ayuthaya

BANG PA-IN PALACE IN AYUTHAYA

Just an hour's drive from Bangkok (90 kilometers)  is Ayuthaya, an ancient Siamese capital for over 400 years famous for its temple ruins and summer palaces. Among the "must-see" attractions in Authaya is the Bang-In Palace, a former Royal Summer Residence, which represents a fine example of Thai architecture. This Royal Palace at Bang-In has history dating back in the 17th century. But today, the Palace is used occasionally by the Royal Family as a residence and for holding receptions and banquets.

Similar to most Thai royal palaces, the compound of this Summer Palace is divided into two sections --- the Outer and the Inner Palace.  Whereas the Outer consists of buildings for public and ceremonial uses, the Inner Palace is reserved for the King and his immediate family.


1. Visitng hours to the Palace  is 8:00 am to 3:30 pm everyday, including weekends and public holidays.

2.  Entrance ticket per person  is Baht 100 (approx. US$3.50).  Local visitors (Thai) pay less.

3. Rental of electric cart which rides 4 persons is Baht 400 (approx. US$ 14). Palace grounds are walkable but because of the huge area of the Palace, the use of electric car (golf cart) is advisable especially when the sun is out.  Any adult may drive the electric car but are asked to strictly follow driving and parking rules.

4. Visitors are advised to follow a dress code.  Shorts and sleeveless shirts are unacceptable. However, visitors may borrow cover clothes with a deposit of Baht200 (US$7).

5.  Cameras are allowed except in some parts of the Chinese-style two-storey mansion with ornamented tiled floors, massive ebony furniture, gold, silver and porcelain jars and wares.

6.  There is a Snack Bar located at the entrance/exit of the Palace where you can eat and buy some local souvenir items.  Try their fruit juices. You can also find the toilets in the same building.

7.  Touring the whole palace complex will usually take at least an hour and a half.

8.  Contact telephone of the Palace is (035) 261 548; (035) 261-044.

9. Ayuthaya tour is also  available through local tour companies.  The tour brings you on air conditioned bus to Bang-In palace and return is on a boat.  The tour visits to three fascinating temples - Wat Mahathat, Wat Lokayasutharam and Wat Na Phra Mane.  The Tour starts from the River City Shopping Complex at 7:30am and returns at approximately 3:30 pm.  Tour companies charge different prices but most will charge Baht 1800 ($60) per person and Baht 1300 ($44) per child (between 3-10 years old). Fee includes a seat in an air-conditioned vehicle with English-speaking guide, admission fees, buffet lunch on board.  Check the internet for Asia Web Direct for your tour booking.
   
10 Other places to see near Bang Pa-In Palace is he Ayuthaya Historical Park where you find four temples --- Wat Phra Ram, Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Wat Mahathat, Wat Ratchaburana.

11. Elephant ride is also available in the area. 
 

Reclining buddah (Phra Budhasaiyart)

January 2013