"A Palace Made Completely Out of Teak" Vimanmek Teak Mansion Tip by DarkRay

Vimanmek Palace, the world's largest golden teakwood mansion, was constructed by the royal command of King Rama V (1868-1910) upon his return from Europe in 1897. Thus, the interior decor and furnishing of the palace have a very strong European motif.

The building itself was originally his Summer Palace, the Munthaturaltanaroj Residence of the Chuthathujrachathan at Koh Sri Chang, Chonburi. It was dismantled and rebuilt in the Dusit Garden under the supervision of Prince Narissaranuwaddhiwongse. The massive reconstruction project was completed on 27th March 1901.

Since then, the mansion has been renovated several times but subsequently, it fell into disuse and was practically forgotten until in 1982, when Queen Sirikit learnt about it and asked for the permission of King Rama IX to renovate the mansion into a museum that reflects the Thai heritage from the dramatic reign of King Rama V.

The museum is open from 0830-1630 daily (ticketing stops at 1530 though), including weekends and public holidays. The admission rate is 100 baht and proper attiring must be observed. Thus, do refrain from wearing sandals, sleeveless shirts and shorts (bottoms must at least extend to knee). Suitable attires (sarongs, shirts and pants) are available for rental if required.

You will need to join their complimentary guided tour as you are not allowed to wander within the mansion freely. No indoor photography is allowed as well and you will be required to store your photographic equipments into lockers first (20 baht per locker). Before stepping into the mansion, you will also be requested to take off your shoes and store them at the provided racks just before the commencement of the tour.

Overall, the tour was quite enlightening. However, I do find the Ananta Samakorn Throne Hall more interesting even though there's less to see there. I guess I like the majesty of the latter more.

Address: Rajavithi Road, Dusit
Directions: Behind Bangkok's National Assembly.
Phone: +66 628-6300-9
Website: http://www.palaces.thai.net/index_vm.htm