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Phra Ram Ratchaniwet (Wang Ban Puen)
Temples & Culture
Hua Hin

Phra Ram Ratchaniwet (Wang Ban Puen)

4.6(1,493 reviews)

Stately former royal palace serving as a museum operated by the Royal Thai Army & with gardens.

Experience hints

Visitor favorite

Pair your visit. After Phra Ram Ratchaniwet (Wang Ban Puen), round out your day in Hua Hin with contrasting stops nearby.

Visitor Reviews

Entry is free. The double spiral staircase, the upper staircase hall, and the dining room are worth travelling a long distance just to see. They blew my mind. What an awful pity this palace isn't better furnished and that the demesne/grounds has been utterly destroyed by the dreadful bland concrete buildings all around it. Without a doubt, this was one of the main things I enjoyed visiting in this beautiful city.

Considering this 110-year-old palace was by turns used as a barracks and a school, it has been well restored. The combination of German architecture and art deco interior are interesting and in places beautiful, though the cherubs on the staircase look a tad malevolent. Sadly, photography indoors is now forbidden.

Nice to walk through the building to read the history of the Thai royal family

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.

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Visitor Information

Best time to visit

March – August

Avoid: September – November (rainy season)

Rainy season

September – November

Avg. temperature

23°C – 33°C(73°F – 91°F)

Crowds

Moderate

Peak: Weekends year-round (Bangkok day-trippers)

Getting there

Minivan from Bangkok's Victory Monument (~3.5 hrs). Train from Hua Lamphong station (~4 hrs, scenic). Private car recommended.

Getting around

  • Songthaews (blue, along main roads)
  • Motorbike taxis
  • Bicycle rental
  • Grab available