Also written “Marukhathaiyawan” or “Mrigadayavan” Palace. Built in 1923 on the coast between Cha-Am and Hua Hin, it was King Rama VI’s seaside summer palace. Rama VI, who reigned from 1910 to 1925, had been advised by his doctors to restore his health in a cool and dry place. He went to the royal residence at Chao Samran beach, in Phetchaburi, but he was dissatisfied with the unhealthy conditions and he then decided to have another summer palace built. The new place was better ventilated, with niches for water around the pillars to prevent ants from entering the building. Referred to as “the Palace of Love and Hope”, it is a two-storey golden teak pavillion with a series of halls connected to each other.
Location and admission
9 km south of Cha-Am, at km 201. Open everyday except Wednesday, from 8.00 am to 4.00 pm. Admission is 30 baht (no overcharge for “Farangs”).
Rules to follow
Make sure you are properly dressed, just like when you visit a temple (no short pants or sleeveless top). But if you forget, they can provide you with long pants and shirts. They also provide plastic bags in which you have to carry your shoes, so don’t go there with your hiking boots! Also please be aware that you can’t take pictures of some rooms (especially the King’s bedroom and bathroom, as they are considered too intimate). Please mind the signs. Finally, if you go there by motorbike, turn off the engine and get down from the bike when passing the entrance gate. Don’t forget that this is a royal palace and that Thai people have a great respect for the monarchy!
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