During our trip through Thailand, we visit the remarkable Mrigadayavan Palace in Cha-Am, just north of the authentic seaside town of Hua Hin. This summer palace, built in a unique blend of Thai and Western architecture, sits directly by the sea and is surrounded by lush gardens. I’m immediately intrigued by the story behind it. Why was it built here? What is the background of its distinctive architectural style? Time to take a dive into the history of this fascinating place.
Read this article in DutchHistory of Mrigadayavan Palace
In the 1920s, Mrigadayavan Palace, also known as the Palace of Love and Hope, was commissioned by King Vajiravudh (Rama VI), who ruled Thailand from 1910 to 1925. The king suffered from rheumatoid arthritis and his doctors advised him to reside in a warm but refreshing coastal climate. It was Rama VI himself who came up with the first ideas for a simple yet elegant summer retreat. The Italian architect Ercole Manfredi, who also worked on other royal and public projects in Thailand, refined the king’s design and oversaw the construction.
The complex eventually consisted of sixteen teakwood buildings connected by a network of elevated walkways totaling 399 meters in length. There are three main groups of buildings: Samosorn Sevakamart (the audience hall and theater), Samutphiman (the men’s quarters) and Pisansakorn (the women’s quarters).
The meaning of the name Mrigadayavan
The name Mrigadayavan Palace is not arbitrary. It refers to the Mrigadayavan park in India (Sarnath), where Buddha gave his first sermon. King Rama VI chose this name because he wanted his summer palace to be a harmonious place of love and hope. It was also meant to be a place of peace: he protected the nature around the palace by designating it as a wildlife sanctuary. This effort has been very successful, as Mrigadayavan still radiates tranquility today. Its location right by the sea creates a sense of openness and freedom. The fresh sea breeze flows through the open wooden buildings, the sound of the rolling waves can be heard and sunlight reflects off the light-colored painted teakwood.
Restoration of the summer palace
During our visit to the Mrigadayavan Palace, it is noticeable that part of the building has not yet been fully restored. The palace has undergone several restorations since its construction in 1924 to keep it in good condition, although the efforts were not always entirely successful. From the early 21st century, renewed focus on preservation began when the Thai government, in collaboration with international conservation experts, launched an extensive restoration project. This project centers on preserving the original wooden structures, repairing weakened joints and protecting the complex from natural elements such as moisture and salt, which can rapidly damage the wood and building materials. The long-term restoration proceeds in phases, with special care taken to maintain authentic materials and techniques to preserve the palace’s historical value and atmosphere. This ongoing restoration is part of a broader commitment to sustainable conservation and reflects the challenges of protecting a heritage site exposed to coastal conditions and visitor traffic.
Visiting Mrigadayavan Palace
During our visit to Mrigadayavan Palace, unfortunately, the upper floor was closed. Normally, it is possible to take a guided tour for an additional fee, which includes access to the upper floor with former royal family living quarters that have been preserved in their authentic state. Walking around the grounds by yourself is also a wonderful experience. We take our time exploring the complex and gardens, reading the stories about the different rooms, which gives us a good impression of what life here must have been like in the past.
Please note that for both men and women, shoulders, upper arms and legs must be covered. Upon entry, your clothing will be checked and if it is deemed insufficient, a sarong will be provided for you to wear.
