Summer Palace
History in a Daytrip
Only a short drive from Hua Hin, King Vajiravudh’s (King Rama VI) summer palace sits on the seaside, soaking in gentle ocean breezes. The Muruekatayawan Palace is one of the oldest and most beautiful palaces, and being just ten kilometers north of Hua Hin, it’s also one of the most accessible. Originally built in 1923 as a place for the King to comfortably relax in a natural setting; it is now open to the public and remains nearly identical in every respect, even nearly 90 years later.
Rama VI drafted the architectural designs for the palace himself for this raised floor escape. The entire structure is made from golden teak and is often billed as “The Longest Teak Palace in the World.” There are three two-story pavilions, all of which face the sea. These are linked with the residential halls where the royal family used to stay as well as separate reading rooms, relaxing rooms, reading rooms and separate quarters for royal servants. All of these areas are connected by open-air hallways.
The rooms that lie to the north were used by royal attendants and officers of the army. The king occupied the center suite, known as Phisan Sakhon Hall, which commanded the best sea views and also had access to the dining areas. The wing to the south housed the queen and her servants as well as Samut Phiman Hall. There is also a separate pavilion that was used by early residents to change into their swimming costume.
The palace walls are constructed with golden teak and have been painted in alternating soft pastel shades of beige and blue. Throughout the upper portions of the building, visitors will enjoy the craftsmanship of the finely carved latticework that is widely used. Some say the real beauty of the palace can’t be seen until you begin walking inside. The floors throughout the palace are made with a gorgeous red teak, which is why visitors must go barefoot throughout the building.
The palace was only used by Rama VI for a short time until his death in 1925. It was then all but abandoned to the destructive forces of salt and wind. Its restoration was done during the 1970’s to give “the palace of love and hope’ a new life.
Also on the royal grounds, you will find the Samoson Sewkamat Hall. This two-story pavilion was, and occasionally still is, used a meeting place or theatre. A statue to honor King Vajiravudh was ordered to be built and enshrined in this hall. A ceremony is held each year to commemorate the anniversary of his death on 25 November.
Further Information: The palace is open daily from 8am-4pm. Admission: Adults – 30 Baht, Children – 15 Baht. Proper attire is required.
From Hua Hin, the King Rama VI Summer Palace is about ten kilometers north on Phetchakasem Road. On the right, you will see a large army compound and the Southern Border Police Headquarters. The palace is located in these grounds via a two kilometer access road. The most visible signs are all in Thai, but the compound is so large it is quite easy to find.