Parutsakawan Palace
Tucked within Bangkok's Dusit district, this former royal palace is a genuine hidden gem that combines European architectural elegance with Thai royal heritage. Designed by an Italian architect, the palace features distinctive Italian-style villa elements that set it apart from the ornate Thai structures typically found in the area. The site encompasses two main buildings: a dedicated Police Museum tracing the history and development of Thailand's law enforcement, and the charming Chitralada Villa, which many visitors consider the highlight of the experience. Entry is free of charge, and guided tours are available to help contextualise the exhibits and architecture.
The atmosphere is quiet and unhurried, offering a welcome contrast to Bangkok's busier tourist sites. Visitors can expect well-maintained grounds, thoughtful exhibits covering Thailand's police heritage, and the distinctive pleasure of exploring a century-old royal building that sees relatively few tourists. The combination of architectural interest and institutional history makes it a rewarding stop for travellers drawn to cultural landmarks beyond the standard circuit.
Book tours & tickets in Bangkok
Day trips, skip-the-line entry, and guided experiences around Parutsakawan Palace — book ahead and skip the on-the-ground markup.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Parutsakawan Palace, round out your day in Bangkok with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Nestled in the heart of Bangkok’s busy Dusit district, Parutsakawan Palace (also known as Paruskavan) is a serene, elegant escape from the city's modern rush. This Italian-style villa is one of the capital's most sophisticated "hidden gems," blending deep royal history with stunning European aesthetics. Beyond the architecture, the palace is steeped in the romance and drama of Prince Chakrabongse and his Ukrainian wife, Katya. Walking through the halls feels like stepping into a historical novel. • Inside: Strictly prohibited. No video is allowed within the interior rooms to protect the artifacts and the privacy of the government complex. Photograph is alright. • Outside: Fully allowed. The exterior and the manicured gardens are incredibly photogenic.
A hidden gem worth visiting! The villa is charming, and the Police Museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of the Thai police force. One of the highlights was learning about their work in border areas, where they engage ethnic Thai minorities in education and economic programs—an inspiring initiative that showcases their commitment beyond law enforcement. Best of all, entrance is completely free, making it an accessible and enriching experience for all visitors. Highly recommended for those interested in history, culture, and social development in Thailand!
Parutsakawan Palace is more than 100 years old. Nowadays this building is a museum with public access. The museum is open four days a week, from Tuesday to Friday. The museum is open from 10 AM to 4 PM. Entrance is free. This old palace is not well-known, but it is an interesting place to visit.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 327 reviews on Google.
Also Popular in Bangkok
Chatuchak Weekend Market
Go at six in the morning, before the heat turns 15,000 stalls into an endurance test.
centralwOrld
Vast, air-conditioned and genuinely easy to navigate, with a top-floor food scene worth the trip alone.
Asiatique The Riverfront
Go at dusk, arrive by the free shuttle boat, and treat it as an evening out rather than a shopping trip.
MBK CENTER
Eight floors of small stalls and haggling, closer to an indoor market than a mall, and all the better for it.
Parutsakawan Palace: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Parutsakawan Palace worth visiting?
Parutsakawan Palace holds a 4.7★ rating from 327 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Bangkok.
What are the opening hours of Parutsakawan Palace?
Parutsakawan Palace is typically open 10:00-16:00 — 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 Parutsakawan 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 Parutsakawan Palace located?
Parutsakawan Palace is at 323 Thanon Si Ayutthaya, Khwaeng Dusit, Khet Dusit, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10300, Thailand, in Bangkok. Getting around Bangkok: BTS Skytrain (most central areas); MRT Metro (underground).
Location Info
323 Thanon Si Ayutthaya, Khwaeng Dusit, Khet Dusit, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10300, Thailand+66 2 282 5057www.facebook.com/policemuseum.parusakawanpalace/Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: April – May (peak heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
25°C – 34°C(77°F – 93°F)
Crowds
Peak: December & January
Getting there
Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) airports serve Bangkok with direct flights from most major cities.
Getting around
- •BTS Skytrain (most central areas)
- •MRT Metro (underground)
- •Airport Rail Link (ARL)
- •Chao Phraya Express Boat
- •Grab (ride-hailing app)
- •Metered taxis — always use the meter
Where to stay near Parutsakawan Palace
Find hotels in Bangkok on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
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.
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.
Nearby Places
Wat Benchamabophit Dusitwanaram
The Marble Temple trades crowds for calm, and the 100 baht entry buys you one of Bangkok's quietest mornings.
Office of National Museums
Government body overseeing Thailand's national museum network, located in Bangkok's Dusit district.
Chitralada Villa Royal Residence
A working royal home, not a sight, so don't come expecting to get past the wall.
Bang Khun Phrom Palace
A historic royal palace on the Chao Phraya riverbank, celebrated for its ornate stucco work and lavish interiors.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Doi Suthep Temple
Go at first light, before the tour vans arrive, and the golden chedi and the whole Chiang Mai valley are yours.
The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
A hand-carved wooden giant still under construction, and watching the carpenters work is half the point.
The Big Buddha, Phuket
A 45-metre marble Buddha on a hilltop, though the front is closed and you'll be viewing from behind.
Tha Phae Gate
Free, open all hours, and best after dark when the brick gate is lit and the square fills up.
Where to stay near Parutsakawan Palace
Find hotels in Bangkok on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: April – May (peak heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
25°C – 34°C(77°F – 93°F)
Crowds
Peak: December & January
Getting there
Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) airports serve Bangkok with direct flights from most major cities.
Getting around
- •BTS Skytrain (most central areas)
- •MRT Metro (underground)
- •Airport Rail Link (ARL)
- •Chao Phraya Express Boat
- •Grab (ride-hailing app)
- •Metered taxis — always use the meter