Thailand

While visiting Ayutthaya, set aside a day trip to explore Bang Pa-in. This small town in central Thailand, north of Bangkok, is renowned for its architectural remnants. Along the Chao Phraya River stands a 17th-century royal palace, which reflects the era when the Ayutthaya Empire dominated most of Northern Thailand. Bang Pa-in served as a summer retreat for the royal court during that time. Besides the palace, Wat Niwet Thammaprawat is another significant symbol of the town. This Buddhist temple is unique for being situated on an island. History enthusiasts and those seeking authenticity should not miss Bang Pa-in, a promising yet relatively undiscovered attraction.

Historical notes

Originally called Bang Khadan or Bang Kradan, the name referred to the extensive plains surrounding the area, indicative of fertile land within the Chao Phraya basin where agriculture thrived. However, some argue that Bang Pa-in's name derives from Bang Phra In, meaning "place of Indra," linked to the ancient title of King Songtham when he was crown prince.

Let the historians debate! It's established that the locality changed names several times over the years. When Ayutthaya soldiers took the city, it was called Khwaeng Uthai. In 1910, it became a district known as Phra Ratchawang. Finally, in 1915, it was officially named Bang Pa-in, a designation it retains to this day.

Today

Bang Pa-in district is administratively part of Ayutthaya province. Its residents are spread across 18 tambons and 149 mubans. Located 20 km south of Ayutthaya, Bang Pa-in borders the localities of Phra Nakhon, Wang Noi, and Uthai.

Very few foreign tourists flock here, yet no photograph can do justice to the palace's architecture, faithfully preserved from the Ayutthaya period, or to the unique Buddhist temple resembling exemplary Gothic art.

Sights to see in Bang Pa-in

Bang Pa-in Royal Palace

In 1632, King Prasat Thong expressed a desire to build a summer palace in the town. He acquired land along the riverbank, resulting in an expansive residential complex featuring a throne hall, watchtowers, and private palaces amidst lush wooded gardens.

After Ayutthaya's sack in 1767, the palace fell into disuse until Rama IV revitalized it in the mid-1850s.

Strolling through Bang Pa-in Royal Palace, visitors feel transported to another era. The buildings, with poetic names like the Sages' Tower, Supreme Illumination, Excellent and Divinely Brilliant Palace, and Celestial Abode of Personal Freedom, boast impeccable craftsmanship. Phra Thinang Wehat Chamrung, or Supreme Illumination Pavilion, exhibits Chinese design influences, while Aisawan Thiphya-Art, or Celestial Abode of Personal Freedom Pavilion, sits in the middle of a lake. These two pavilions are the palace's main attractions.

Numerous crowned heads have stayed at this palace during their visits to Thailand, including Infanta Elena, Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands, and Queen Elizabeth II of England. The wooded setting, delicate sculptures, and architecture from another age make Bang Pa-in Palace a romantic excursion destination.

Wat Niwet Thammaprawat Buddhist Temple

The pagoda is a late addition, not part of Ayutthaya's glory days. Constructed in 1878 by King Rama V, its clock tower inscription attests to this fact. Designed by Italian architect Joachim Grassi, the temple is a perfect replica of European Gothic churches, as per the ruler's wishes. Buddha statues replace crosses and images of Christian martyrs. Wat Niwet's allure also lies in its location on an island in the Chao Phraya River. To reach it, take the funicular from the palace parking lot.

Practical information

The best time to visit

Bang Pa-in has a tropical climate, with continuous rain throughout the year. To avoid rainy days, it's best to visit during the cool season, either the first or last bimonthly period of the year.

Getting to Bang Pa-in

Bang Pa-in is just 15 minutes by train from the major city of Ayutthaya. For quicker travel, visitors can take a local bus to Bang Pa-in, though note that bus tickets are significantly more expensive: 25 baht (0.7 €) compared to 3 baht (0.084 €) by rail. Buses are not air-conditioned.

Yellow songthaews (shared taxis) depart frequently from Ayutthaya to Bang Pa-in, gathering at Chao Prom Market. The journey takes 45 minutes and costs 30 baht (0.84 €).

It's also possible to travel by train from Bangkok to Bang Pa-in, taking around 1.5 hours and costing approximately 12 baht (0.336 €).

Nearby attractions

• Baan Hollanda Museum;
• Chao Sam Phraya National Museum;
• Wat Na Phra Men;
• Buddhist ruins from the Ayutthaya era.