Suan Pakkad Palace

The Basics

Visit the Suan Pakkad Palace complex to see eight of the finest examples of traditional Thai domestic architecture in Thailand. Many of the houses are connected by covered walkways. Of particular note is the mid-17th century Lacquer Pavilion, decorated with black and gold lacquer. Walk the gardens (the name Suan Pakkad or "cabbage patch" references the land's past as farmland—you might see it spelled Suan Pakkard), and take in highlights such as the centuries-old pottery, archaeological finds, and a royal barge.

It's possible to visit the Suan Pakkad Palace independently, although some guided tours include the museum on the itinerary. It’s common to visit the Jim Thompson House Museum and the Suan Pakkad Palace on the same tour.

Things to Know Before You Go

• There is an entry fee to the museum.

• Shoes must be removed to enter the Lacquer Pavilion.

• Find temporary art and culture exhibits, as well as a library, in the modern Chumbhot-Pantip Building.

• Larger bags must be stored in a locker.

How to Get There

The museum is located between Victory Monument and Siam Square. The easiest way to get there is on the Skytrain, as you avoid traffic. Take the Sukhumvit line to Phaya Thai station. The museum is about a 5-minute walk from the station.

When to Get There

The museum is open daily from morning until mid afternoon. Thailand is pleasant year-round, but travel November through April is preferred as it's cool and dry then.

Visit Jim Thompson’s House

Some guided tours combine a visit to Suan Pakkad Palace with Jim Thompson’s House—both spots appeal to art, craft, and architecture fans. American-born Thompson helped revive Thailand’s traditional silk-weaving industry in the mid-20th century. His traditionally designed home has been turned into a museum and is next to the Jim Thompson Art Center.