Phra Thi Nang Vimanmek and Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall

Phurida, Vimanmek-mansion, CC BY-SA 4.0

Thailand is an enthralling country with an incredibly rich heritage. The nation’s history is filled with many kings who built breath-taking works of architectural accomplishments. The country after all, is still officially titled the Kingdom of Thailand. One of the most beautiful royal residences that were ever created, and still exist today in all its glory, is the Dusit Palace complex, which was constructed by King Chulalongkorn, also known as Rama V.

The lavish compound is situated in the Dusit district, just across of the Chao Phraya River, and close to many Bangkok resorts such as the Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort. The entire complex features an elaborate network of gardens and a total of thirteen different residences. It is truly a testament to royal luxury. The palace compound was constructed due to the previous royal residence becoming too overcrowded and as a result no longer sustainable.

One of the most remarkable residences in the compound is the Vimanmek Mansion, which is the largest golden-teak construction in the world. The mansion therefore is massive, boasting three storeys and a total of eighty one rooms. This was the first permanent residence built in the Dusit Palace complex. The inspiration for this mansion came to King during a visit to Europe where he was exposed to Victorian architecture. He then commissioned the disassembling of a different residence in order to have it rebuilt into what eventually became the Vimanmek Mansion.

The Abhishek Dusit Throne Hall is another similar architectural wonder made of teak wood. Also built by King Rama, this exquisite hall was built in 1904, and bears strikingly Victorian architecture with strong Thai elements beautifully incorporated as well. It now serves as a handicraft museum and was the first of its kind when it was converted into its new role.

If you ever find yourself in Thailand, be sure to visit these awe-inspiring locales.

Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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