Dusit Palace

Dusit Palace is a royal compound in the Dusit district of Bangkok that brings together thirteen separate residences under one administrative area. The buildings sit within landscaped gardens filled with tropical plants, lawns and ornamental ponds.

King Chulalongkorn commissioned the compound in the late 19th century when he found the Grand Palace no longer suited his needs. Construction took place mainly between 1897 and 1901, blending European models with Thai craftsmanship.

The name Dusit comes from Sanskrit and refers to a heavenly realm where gods dwell in Buddhist cosmology. Visitors today walk through the same pathways once reserved for the royal family and court officials.

Visitors should wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees, along with closed shoes, before entering any of the buildings. The compound opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon every day.

The Vimanmek Mansion on the grounds is considered the largest golden teakwood building in the world and was moved here from an island in 1901. The entire structure stands without a single nail, relying instead on traditional wooden joinery.