Chitralada Royal Villa

Chitralada Palace or the Chitralada Royal Villa (Thai: พระตำหนักจิตรลดารโหฐาน) is the Bangkok residence of King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) and Queen Sirikit. The palace is part of the Dusit Palace complex. King Bhumibol was the first king in the Chakri dynasty to live in the Chitralda Palace. He moved there after the death of his older brother, King Rama VIII in the Grand Palace. The palace grounds, 4 square kilometers surrounded by a moat and Palace Guards, also contain the Chitralada School, initially established for the children of the royal family. The school is, perhaps, the most exclusive school in Thailand.

History

The main building of the palace is a two-level building, founded by Rama VI. The palace was the residence of Rama VI. The palace school, Chitralada School was founded in 1958 for the children of the Royal Family and palace staff. A possible future king HRH Prince Dipangkorn Rasmijoti is currently a kindergarten student in the Chitralada School.

As the king is interested in agriculture and agricultural industry; rice field, miller, fish well, dairy farm and factories were built. Research centers on agricultural products were also founded, providing training for farmers. 'Chitralada' is also the 'brand' of many products from the palace.

Visitors need to obtain a pass to enter.

References