Phra Thi Nang Vimanmek, located behind Bangkok's National Assembly on Uthong Nai Road, is considered to be the world's largest building made entirely of golden teak. Vimanmek, meaning 'Palace of the Clouds' was originally built in 1868 as a summer house on Si Chang Island and moved to its present site in 1910. The palace was closed in 1935 and reopened in 1982 to coincide with the Rattanakosin bicentennial.
The three-storey wooden palace has 81 rooms, halls and ante-rooms, excluding terraces and verandahs. Vimanmek served as King Rama V's residence at the turn of the century and still contains many of his personal effects, antiques and works of art.
Near the entrance to Vimanmek Palace is the Royal Carriage Museum where 13 royal horse-drawn carriages from the reign of King Rama V are housed.
Although not a temple, Vimanmek is within the grounds of Chitralada Palace and visitors should wear respectful clothing.
Vimanmek is open daily from 9.00 am to 4.00 pm with a 50 baht admission fee. Guides are available free of charge.
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