Suan Pakkard Palace

Suan Pakkard Palace Review

A collection of antique teak houses, built high on columns, complement undulating lawns and shimmering lotus pools at this compound. Inside the Lacquer Pavilion, which sits serenely at the back of the garden, there's gold-covered paneling with scenes from the life of the Buddha. Academics and historians continue to debate just how old the murals are—whether they're from the reign of King Narai (1656-88) or from the first reign of the current Chakri Dynasty, founded by King Rama I (1782-1809). Whenever they originated, they are worth a look. Other houses display porcelain, stone heads, traditional paintings, and Buddha statues.