Mrigadayavan Palace
Western Thailand Region
Mrigadayavan Palace, located in the Western Thailand region of Phetchaburi Province, is a former summer residence of King Vajiravudh (Rama VI), who reigned from 1910 to 1925. Commissioned as a holiday villa to benefit the king's health, the palace was constructed between 1923 and 1924 under the supervision of Italian architect Ercole Manfredi, based on the king's own designs. The palace complex consists of sixteen teak buildings elevated on concrete pillars, connected by long covered wooden corridors stretching nearly 400 meters parallel to the sea. Its architecture emphasizes simplicity and elegance, harmonizing with the tropical seaside climate. The layout includes three main groups of buildings, such as the Samosorn Sevakamart and the Samutphiman men's quarters, with bathing pavilions at each end to capture sea and mountain breezes. The palace was also notable for its proximity to a wildlife refuge established by the king, reflecting his interest in conservation. Though King Vajiravudh only visited twice, in 1924 and 1925, the palace remains an important cultural and historical site managed by the Crown Property Bureau and the Foundation of Mrigadayavan Palace.
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Tip: Visitors should plan their visit during the cooler months to enjoy the seaside climate comfortably. It is advisable to check opening hours in advance and consider purchasing tickets ahead of time to avoid queues. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. The palace's wooden walkways and staircases require comfortable footwear. Guided tours can enrich the experience by providing historical context and architectural insights.
Interesting facts
- •The name 'Mrigadayavan' is derived from a sacred deer park in India where Buddha gave his first sermon.
- •The palace complex stretches nearly 400 meters along the coast, connected by covered teak corridors.
- •King Vajiravudh personally drafted the palace's architectural plans before collaborating with Italian architect Ercole Manfredi.
- •The palace was built on concrete pillars to adapt to the tropical seaside environment and allow sea breezes.
- •The area around the palace was declared a wildlife refuge by King Vajiravudh in 1924 to protect local fauna.
History
Mrigadayavan Palace was built between 1923 and 1924 as a summer retreat for King Vajiravudh, who suffered from rheumatoid arthritis and sought a warm seaside climate.
Initially, the king stayed at a summer palace in Chao Samran Beach but moved to the current site at Huai Sai Nua due to water shortages, accessibility issues, and nuisances from nearby fishing villages.
The site, named after the local hog deer population, was declared a wildlife refuge by the king in 1924.
The palace reflects the king's desire for a modest yet elegant residence, contrasting with more opulent royal palaces.
It stands as a testament to early 20th-century Thai royal architecture and the king's personal involvement in its design.
Place Guide
Samosorn Sevakamart1923-1924
This group of buildings served as the main reception and service area of the palace, showcasing traditional teak architecture and providing spaces for official functions during the king's stays.
Samutphiman Group of Buildings (Men's Quarters)1923-1924
These buildings were the private quarters for the king and his male attendants, featuring multiple rooms accessed by twenty-two staircases, designed for comfort and practicality in a tropical climate.
Contact
Phone: 032 508 444
