Mekalarujee Palace
A historic royal villa from the reign of King Rama VI, tucked within the grounds of Phaya Thai Palace.
Plan your visit
- Hours
- Open 24 hours daily
- Dress Modestly
- Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Tours that include Mekalarujee Palace
Skip-the-line entry, guided visits and day-tour combos around Mekalarujee Palace.
This placeMekalarujee Palace: tickets, guides & combos
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Day toursBangkok temple & city day tours
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See pricesWhy go, and how to do it well
Nestled within the grounds of Phaya Thai Palace in Bangkok's Ratchathewi district, Mekalarujee Palace is a charming historical villa dating back to the reign of King Rama VI. The site offers a rare glimpse into early 20th-century Thai royal architecture, with a modest yet atmospheric setting that rewards those with an interest in the country's monarchical history. Part of the surrounding palace complex has since been repurposed as a hospital, giving the site an unusual dual identity that adds to its character.
Visitors can expect a quiet, intimate atmosphere quite different from Bangkok's larger royal landmarks. The villa itself is small in scale, surrounded by a peaceful garden setting that provides a welcome contrast to the bustle of the city. Its understated charm has drawn comparisons to a private royal retreat rather than a grand ceremonial palace, making it an appealing stop for those who appreciate history without the crowds.
Practically speaking, guided tours of the palace are available on Saturdays and Sundays only, departing at 9am and 1pm. The entrance fee is 40 Thai Baht, making it one of the more affordable cultural experiences in the capital. As access is tour-based and limited to weekends, visitors should plan accordingly and aim to arrive a little before the scheduled departure times to secure a spot.
Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Sep 2026 · How we check places
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Mekalarujee Palace, round out your day in Bangkok with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
It's a small palace from King Rama 6. Some part has been converted to be part of the hospital. The guided tours are only available on Saturday and Sunday, at 9am and 1pm. Entrance fee is THB 40.
Nice ambiance :D with a small lovely house!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 21 reviews on Google.
Phaya Thai Palace, Khwaeng Thung Phaya Thai, Khet Ratchathewi, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10400, Thailand
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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Go Early Morning
Major temples like Wat Pho and Wat Arun are dramatically less crowded before 9 AM. You'll also avoid the worst of the midday heat and get softer light for photos.
Mekalarujee Palace: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mekalarujee Palace worth visiting?
Mekalarujee Palace holds a 4.6★ rating from 21 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Bangkok.
What are the opening hours of Mekalarujee Palace?
Mekalarujee Palace is open 24 hours a day — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit Mekalarujee Palace?
The best months to visit Bangkok are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December & January — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: April – May (peak heat).
Where is Mekalarujee Palace located?
Mekalarujee Palace is at Phaya Thai Palace, Khwaeng Thung Phaya Thai, Khet Ratchathewi, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10400, Thailand, in Bangkok. Getting around Bangkok: BTS Skytrain (most central areas); MRT Metro (underground).
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