Introduction to Sanam Chandra Palace
Sanam Chandra Palace is located in Nakorn Pathom, a province 56 km south of Bangkok . The palace is about a kilometer away from the majestic pagoda, Phra Pathom Chedi. The location was formerly called “Noen Prasart”, and believed to be the site of an ancient palace. Close to Noen Prasart, before a Brahman shrine, was located a natural pool called "Sa Nam Chand" (presently Sa Bua).
Before ascending the throne, the then Crown Prince Vajiravudh (later H. M. King Rama VI 1910 - 1925) came to this city to pay homage to the big pagoda. He wished to build a palace here as a retreat and a residence during his pilgrimage trip to the pagoda. He preferred this area for he viewed it as a strategic location. In 1907, he bought about 335 acres of land around Noen Prasart from local people. He then had Luang Phitak Manop (Noi Silapi, later Phraya Visukam Prasit) design and supervise the construction of the palace. The construction began in 1902 by the end of the Fifth Reign (1868 1910). It was completed in 1911. H.M. King Rama VI named it Sanam Chandra Palace .
In addition, the king had another plan for this palace. It was to serve not only as a retreat, but also as a stronghold during a national crisis. Here, he regularly held practices for the Wild Tigers Corps, a para military troop.
On December 1 st , 2003, the Committee for the Renovation of Sanarm Chandra Palace chaired by HRH Princess Bejraratana Rajasuda, H.M. King Rama VI's daughter, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior, Mr. Navin Khantahirun; Nakhon Pathom Governor and Assistant Professor Likid Khanchanaporn, the Vice President of Sanam Chandra Campus, Silpakorn University returned the palace including its satellite buildings to Bureau of the Royal Household following the wishes of HRH Princess Bejraratana Rajasuda. At present, to Bureau of the Royal Household has since opened the Bhimarn Prathom Residence including the Prayer Room in this residence, Samakkeemukamartaya Hall, Ganesa Shrine, Chaleemongkolasana Residence, Mareerajaratanabulung Residence, Thub Kwan Residence and Statue of Yalae, to the general public.