Thailand's Secret Royal Garden: A Journey into the Dreamy Bang Pa-In Summer Palace

As someone who has always been fascinated by palace architecture, I made sure to set aside a day during my trip to Bangkok to visit Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, often referred to as the "Thai Summer Palace." Located about 70 kilometers from Bangkok, I opted for a private car to get there. The drive took just over an hour and was quite pleasant. Address: Tambon Ban Len, Amphoe Bang Pa-in, Ayutthaya, Thailand The palace grounds are vast, with an elegant ambiance that carries a sense of historical tranquility. The entrance fee is only 100 Thai Baht, roughly HK$22, making it an easy decision to buy a ticket and step inside. Although most of the palace interiors are not open to visitors, the exterior views are already breathtaking. Upon entering, you'll encounter architectural styles from various cultures—golden Thai pavilions, Chinese-style red-tiled roofs, European Gothic designs, and English-style towers. It feels like traveling to multiple countries at once, and there's no shortage of photo opportunities. My favorite spot was the Chinese-style "Heavenly Light Hall," with its red walls and golden tiles. It exudes a classical charm without being overly extravagant. Nearby, there's a serene lake that mirrors the golden pavilion like a perfect reflection, making it an unbeatable spot for photography. You can choose to explore the grounds by taking a sightseeing cart, but I preferred to stroll leisurely, snapping photos and soaking in the atmosphere without rushing. It was truly relaxing. A quick note for visitors: be mindful of the dress code. Shorts, short skirts, and even cropped pants are not allowed. I wore a knee-length skirt, which was just right and posed no issues at the entrance. I spent about two and a half hours there, fully immersing myself in the elegance of Thailand's royal lifestyle. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply looking for a beautiful place to unwind, Bang Pa-In Royal Palace is absolutely worth a visit.