Once
a royal residence, this arresting complex has five conventional Thai houses,
each housing an assemblage of historic items and art objects. It holds the
distinction of being the first museum in Thailand where the owners, Prince
and Princess Chumbhot, decided to gift their private residence to the
general public as a museum.The Museum
The Exhibits
» Idols and other art objects harking back to the 7th century
» Objects used by the royals, including betel nut boxes, clothing and fans
» Archaeological artefacts obtained from Ban Chiang, including rocks, shells and ceramics, all over 4,000 years old
» Collection of Khon masks used in the Thai classical dance
The Houses
The
houses in the complex are one of the best examples of traditional
architecture in Bangkok. Like all conventional Thai houses, these are two
stories high. Most of them are linked by bridges on the second floor, making
it easier to enter another building. You don't have to climb up and down
stairs again and again. The houses ring a garden with Japanese influence,
forming a semi-circle. Lacquer Pavilion
Lacquer Pavilion, the most impressive in the complex, is more than 200 years old. Originally, it stood in a monastery just south of Ayuthaya. It was brought to it's present complex by late Prince Chumbhot. The pavilion is known for it's room within a room. A narrow corridor with richly carved gilded wood, surrounds the inner room. The inner room also has intricate decoration.
Concise History
The credit of bringing these traditional houses together goes to Prince and Princes Chumbhot. The houses, all more than a century old, became a museum after their death. Originally, this land was used for farming, as the name 'Suan Pakkad' denotes. It translates in English as 'cabbage patch'.
Address
Suan Pakkad Palace Museum
Si Ayuthaya Road, Bangkok
How To Reach
The best way to reach Suan Pakkad is the skytrain. Take the train plying on Sukhumvit Line and alight at Phayathai station. Exit from the northern side of the station. The museum is not far away. You can also use other means of transport on road to reach the place.
