King Rama II Memorial Museum in Amphawa district, Samut Songkhram province, is a must-see for anyone seeking more information about the King Rama II, who made a huge contribution to Thai culture.

History of King Rama II Memorial Park

The construction of King Rama II Memorial Park was initiated as part of a project by the King Rama II Phraboromrachanusorn Foundation, under the esteemed royal patronage, with the aim of honoring the legacy of King Rama II. The park stands as a testament to his significant contributions to the arts and culture, which have become invaluable national treasures.

The land for the park, spanning an area of 11 Rais (4.4 acres), was generously offered by Phra Rajsamutmatee, the abbot of Wat Amphawan Chetiyaram. This particular location holds great significance as it is the birthplace of the revered King Rama II.

Highlights of King Rama II Memorial Park

The King Rama II Memorial Park is divided into six distinct parts, each offering unique features and attractions:

Part 1: The front section of the park serves as a parking area for vehicles and hosts shopping stalls that showcase local products and fruits. Additionally, there is a study pavilion called “Ar Srom” which serves as a Thai dessert museum.

Part 2: This section features an outdoor amphitheater nestled within a garden. It provides a venue for recreations of the Royal Khon play and various other activities.

Part 3: Five traditional Thai-style buildings comprise this part of the park, serving as an ethnology museum. These structures display art objects and artifacts from the early Rattanakosin era, showcasing the cultural characteristics, well-being, and livelihood of Thai people during the reign of King Rama II. The exhibition buildings are divided into six zones.

• Zone 1: The central tower houses a statue of King Rama II and exhibits ancient objects from the early Rattanakosin era. These include Benjarong porcelain, Khon masks used in literature puppet shows like “Sang Thong” and “Inao,” and grand shadow puppet plays.
• Zone 2: Known as the “Man Room,” this area is adorned to depict the lifestyle of Thai men during the early Rattanakosin era, showcasing their bravery and readiness to protect their land and country, as per social traditions of that time.

• Zone 3: The “Woman Room” is designed to showcase the lifestyle of Thai women in the past. It features a Thai-style bed, dressing table, mirrors, and scenes depicting their daily lives.

• Zone 4: The terrace area replicates a traditional ancient Thai house, complete with bonsai pots, garden trees, and lotus basins.
• Zone 5: This section represents the kitchen and bathroom areas of middle-class Thai households, exhibiting cooking appliances, dishes, bowls, and tableware.
• Zone 6: The “Headstone Place” is a replica of the foundation headstone that was inaugurated by H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn during a laying ceremony.

Part 4: This part of the park is a garden where various trees mentioned in Thai literature are planted, serving both educational and conservation purposes. Additionally, models of characters from Thai literature are displayed in this area.

Part 5: Located along the riverside, this area offers pavilions for resting, restaurants, souvenir shops, and features the “Prapas Utayan” royal barge.

Part 6: This section is an agricultural garden area, inspired by the ideas of H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, focusing on showcasing agricultural practices.

Location

King Rama II Memorial Park is located in Pracha Seth Rd., Amphawa, Samut Songkhram

How to get there

If you plan to reach the park using public transport, you can take a bus from the Municipal Market of Amphoe Mueang Samut Songkhram. Look for buses traveling from Mae Klong to Bang Nok Khwaek and Ratchaburi. Once on the bus, simply alight at the stop in front of the park.

For those opting to drive, the recommended route is to take Highway 35 (Thon Buri-Pak Tho) and continue until you reach Km 63. From there, drive through the town of Samut Songkhram. At this point, switch to Highway 325 (Samut Songkhram-Bang Phae). Afterward, take a left turn between Km 36-37 and continue for approximately 1 kilometer until you reach the park.

Entrance fees

The entrance fee for adults to the park is 30 baht, while children (not higher than 135 cm) can enter for a fee of 10 baht.

Opening Hours

The park and museum are open from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (closed on Wednesday)

Overall, King Rama II Memorial Park is an important historical and cultural site in Thailand, in honor of the legacy of King Rama II and providing a tranquil space for visitors to enjoy Thai art, literature and natural beauty. Don’t hesitate to contact Thai Unika Travel for your first trip to Samut Songkhram, we’re ready to make your vacation a memorable one.