Parutsakawan Palace
A free Italian-style royal palace in Dusit housing a police museum and elegant Chitralada Villa.
Plan your visit
- Hours
- Tue–Sat 10:00–16:00
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.
Details
- Phone
- +66 2 282 5057
Full opening hours
Tours that include Parutsakawan Palace
Guided visits and day-tour combos that include Parutsakawan Palace.
Why go, and how to do it well
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 travelers drawn to cultural landmarks beyond the standard circuit.
Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Oct 2026
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Tours that include Parutsakawan Palace
Guided visits and day-tour combos that include Parutsakawan Palace.
Around here, on foot
Well-rated places within a short walk of Parutsakawan Palace, nearest first. Minutes are at an easy pace in the heat.
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.
323 Thanon Si Ayutthaya, Khwaeng Dusit, Khet Dusit, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10300, Thailand
Open in Google MapsMore temples & culture nearby
All within a 15-minute walk of Parutsakawan Palace.
Wat Benchamabophit Dusitwanaram
Office of National Museums
Chitralada Villa Royal Residence
Bang Khun Phrom Palace
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
Big-name temples are dramatically less crowded in the first hour after opening. You'll also avoid the worst of the midday heat and get softer light for photos.
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).
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