Chakrabongse Villas, Royal residence in Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Bangkok, Thailand.
Chakrabongse Villas is a former royal residence on the banks of the Chao Phraya in Bangkok, now home to six separate guest accommodations set within a palm-shaded garden. The buildings spread along a narrow plot between the river and a quiet lane, with each pavilion furnished in teak floors, high ceilings, and windows facing the water.
Prince Chakrabongse built this retreat in 1908 as a private base next to the Grand Palace, where he attended royal ceremonies. The family lived here into the 1960s, when the property passed to a granddaughter who later opened it to guests.
The name Chakrabongse translates to wheel of dynasty in Thai, reflecting the royal connection woven into every corner of the residence. Guests today walk through rooms filled with family photographs and heirlooms that tell stories of a prince who studied in Russia and married a commoner, breaking tradition.
Access is through a narrow side lane or by boat from the river, with both routes discreet and lightly marked. Visitors arriving early in the morning or late afternoon find the garden and pool area quieter.
A cat named Siamese lives on the grounds and often naps on the chairs by the pool. The restaurant serves recipes drawn from Princess Chumbhot's handwritten cooking notes.
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