Mrigadayavan Palace

Mrigadayavan Palace is a former royal summer palace located on the coast in Cha-am District, Phetchaburi Province, Thailand. Built in 1923-1924 during the reign of King Rama VI (Vajiravudh) and designed by Italian architect Ercole Manfredi, the palace consists of 16 golden teakwood buildings elevated on pillars and linked by covered walkways. Notable for its airy seaside architecture and historical royal associations, it now operates as a museum and cultural attraction within a military-managed compound.

Visitors can expect a seaside complex of 16 elevated golden teakwood buildings connected by long covered corridors and verandas, set within landscaped gardens facing the Gulf of Thailand. Interiors contain restored royal apartments, exhibition rooms with photographs and artifacts from the reign of King Rama VI, and open-air pavilions designed for sea breezes and natural ventilation. The grounds include lawns, courtyards, and views of Cha-am Beach, with guided tours available in designated areas.

Built between 1923 and 1924 as a summer seaside residence for King Vajiravudh (Rama VI). Designed by Italian architect Ercole Manfredi, it was constructed entirely of golden teakwood with elevated pavilions to allow sea breezes. The King stayed there twice in 1924 and composed literary works there. After his reign, the palace was maintained by the royal household and later restored by the Border Patrol Police and the Mrigadayavan Palace Foundation as a heritage museum.

An example of early 20th-century Thai royal architecture combining traditional Thai elevated wooden construction with European veranda and pavilion design. It reflects King Rama VI's interest in literature, arts and seaside retreats and serves as a cultural and educational site showcasing royal lifestyle, craftsmanship in teakwood, and conservation of heritage buildings.