Outstanding sense of openness! Stroll around the Royal Pavilion at Mahachessadabodind Square

[Overview]

Mahachessadabodind Square, located in the heart of Bangkok's old city, is an urban park used for royal ceremonies. Visiting on a clear morning in late January 2025, the gold-leaf decorated Royal Pavilion stood out against the blue sky, and a peaceful atmosphere prevailed with more local walkers than tourists.
The square was renovated in 2012, with sidewalks unified in cobblestone, and plantings and shaded salas added, providing cool shade and scattered photo spots.

[Access]

• About a 15-minute walk from Sam Yot Metro Station
• About 15 minutes by taxi from BTS National Stadium Station, around 50 THB
• Open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, free admission. Public restrooms and drink vending machines available.

[Highlights]

📍 The gable of the Royal Pavilion shines with naga decorations and mirror mosaics reflecting the morning sun, contrasting beautifully with the marble columns beneath the roof.
📍 The wide square’s distant view features symmetrical design inspired by the ceremony line. Standing in the center, you can simultaneously feel the breeze from the Khlong Gawan River and hear the temple bells.
📍 The promenade is shaded naturally by trees arching overhead like a tunnel, lowering the perceived temperature even in the hot season.
📍 The colorful flower beds and tour buses evoke the Thai flag colors of green, red, and gold, making it perfect for commemorative photos.

[Photo Tips]

📍 From 9 to 10 AM, the pavilion’s front is in direct sunlight, and the gold leaf on the gable shines brightest.
📍 Drones are prohibited in the center of the square, but handheld gimbal video shooting is allowed.
📍 After 5 PM, backlit silhouettes are beautiful; no lighting is installed, so long exposure is unnecessary.

[Suggested Itinerary]

1. Take photos in the shade along the promenade (10 minutes)
2. Photograph the pavilion exterior and gable details (15 minutes)
3. Capture panoramic views from the center of the square (10 minutes)
4. Rest in the sala and admire the flower beds (10 minutes)
Total about 45 minutes. Efficient to visit together with Mahakan Fort, a 7-minute walk away.

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