Suan Pakkad Palace, Bangkok Overview

The name 'Suan Pakkad' translating to 'cabbage patch', is quite unfitting for this private residence turned museum. It's a one of a kind palace museum, as it once used to be the private residence of the Prince and Princess of Chumbhot, and the houses date back to over 100 years. Before being converted into a private collection of homes by the royal family, the land used to be nothing more than a cabbage patch.

It is an excellent place to visit if you're looking to get away from the humdrum of typical touristy locations, as this is a little off the radar for most tourists. Suan Pakkad is the place to be for anyone looking for a quaint, relaxing visit to mesmerising gardens and a chance to see traditional Thai architecture and curios.

Home to many archaeologically and historically significant artefacts, it is perfect for anyone looking to gain more insight into Thai history. It has items such as rocks and minerals from ancient times to pieces from the daily lives of royals such as mother of pearl containers, nutcrackers, clothes, etc. Must-see attractions include the gardens, some with exhibits dating back to the 7th century, Marsi Gallery and the Lacquer Pavillion.

Suan Pakkad Palace Architecture

Suan Pakkad Palace Exhibits Traditional Thai Architecture — Traditional Thai Houses with Two Storeys (Source)

Since it is a collection of traditional Thai houses, the Suan Pakkad palace has two floors each, like any other Thai house.

In most cases, the ground floor is an open area, and the first floor comprises of living area. But some houses have an enclosed ground floor for shops and other such establishments. The houses are all well linked to each other through bridges, so you can directly walk from one house to another. The apartments are designed in a way that they surround the garden in the middle lending a Japanese vibe.

Highlights
The architecture of the Lacquer Pavillion is worth mentioning, as it is a 200-year-old building that was bought by the Prince and moved to the grounds here. It consists of a room within a room, and a narrow corridor that goes all around the room. The inside of the rooms are done up with nothing but black and gold lacquer.

Palace Exhibits

Lacquered Pavillion of Suan Pakkad Palace — The Ornate Gold Details Inside The Lacquered Pavillion Of Suan Pakkad Palace
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The Marsi Gallery, perfect for art enthusiasts, has a contemporary art exhibition all year round and is a must-visit for anyone at Suan Pakkad. The museum also houses the Ban Chiang Museum, with its rustic and unique displays of pottery. Both are located in the Chumbhot-Pantip Centre of Arts. The gardens are also a must-visit for anyone looking to kick back and relax amidst nature. The Lacquered Pavillion is a must-visit too for its ornate interiors and architectural marvels.

Tips

One of the traditional Thai houses of the Suan Pakkad Palace — One Of The Many Houses In The Suan Pakkad Palace Area
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There are no particular rules for the premises, except for the Lacquer Pavilion.
Tourists are requested to take off their shoes before entering the building.
Suan Pakkad Palace serves as the perfect offbeat location for anyone looking to explore true Thai culture without encountering too much of a crowd.

How To Reach Suan Pakkad Palace

The most convenient and economical way to get to Suan Pakkad is to catch the Skytrain, the Sukhumvit line to the Phayathai station. From the there, once you get off at the station near the Florida Hotel, it's not more than a 5-minute walk to the Suan Pakkad Museum,