Dara Pirom Palace Museum, Chiang Mai - a large building with statues on the front of it
1 / 10

Dara Pirom Palace Museum Chiang Mai

4.7
·596 reviews·Rim Tai, Thailand

Step into the elegant world of Princess Dara Rasmi at this beautifully preserved European-style palace, a historical gem in Chiang Mai.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning or Late Afternoon

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Dara Pirom Palace Museum, Chiang Mai - a large building with statues on the front of it

Dara Pirom Palace Museum Chiang Mai

Best Time

Morning or Late Afternoon

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into the elegant world of Princess Dara Rasmi at this beautifully preserved European-style palace, a historical gem in Chiang Mai.

4.7
(596 reviews)

"A must-visit for history lovers, offering a glimpse into royal life at an incredibly affordable price."

Vertical photo
TIP

Transport is Key 🚗

This palace is a bit out of the way. Factor in transport costs and time to get here from Chiang Mai's Old City.

Affordable Entry Fee 🎟️

The entrance fee is a bargain at just 20 baht for both locals and foreigners.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Princess Dara Rasmi's Residence

Princess Dara Rasmi's Residence

Main Palace Building

Step back in time in this elegant European-style wooden house, the former home of King Rama V's consort.

Chulalongkorn Roses

Chulalongkorn Roses

Palace Gardens

Admire the fragrant Chulalongkorn Roses that bloom around the property, adding a sweet scent to the historical atmosphere.

Historical Artifacts & Clothing

Historical Artifacts & Clothing

Exhibition Rooms

See personal items, traditional Lanna silk, and clothing that offer a glimpse into the life and culture of the era.

Planning Your Visit

Getting There & Timing

Dara Pirom Palace Museum is a bit outside the main tourist hubs, so plan your transport. Consider visiting in the cooler morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and potential crowds. The entrance fee is very affordable at 20 baht.

What to Expect Inside

This isn't a sprawling complex, but a beautifully preserved European-style wooden house showcasing the life of Princess Dara Rasmi. Expect to see her personal belongings, clothing, and historical photos. Wear socks as you'll need to remove shoes to enter.

Best Times

When
Morning or Late Afternoon
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Plan your trip to Thailand like a pro with these Know Before You Go travel tips & my 20+ page travel guide covering Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai. 🇹🇭 thailand travel tips Thailand resorts how to plan a trip to thailand best thailand itinerary hidden gems in thailand #bangkokexplores #traveltiktok #thailandexplores #thailand #thailandtrip #phuket #chiangmai
@imaubreyjackson
26.7K likes • 439.9K views

Transport is Key 🚗

This palace is a bit out of the way. Factor in transport costs and time to get here from Chiang Mai's Old City. Reddit

Affordable Entry Fee 🎟️

The entrance fee is a bargain at just 20 baht for both locals and foreigners. Reddit

These were our 10 favorite activities in Chiang Mai! 🪔🕯️🏮 Are you visiting the north of Thailand and don’t know what to do? We stayed for 2 weeks in Chiang Mai and these were our favorite things to do. 1. Dantewada A dreamy escape to unwind at Dantewada’s park 🌿 2. Sticky Waterfalls Climb and play at the unique Sticky Waterfalls. 3. Huay Tueng Thao Reservoir Relax by the serene waters of Huay Tue...
@halaltravelasia
24.1K likes • 661.9K views
Chiang Mai is one of my favorite places in Thailand! There is SO much to do and these are 8 things you should add you your list: 1. Sticky waterfalls 2. Ethical elephant sanctuary (we went to Joy Elephant Sanctuary but there are a ton to choose from so do your research before) 3. Quad biking 4. Hike Monk’s Trail 5. North Gate Jazz Co-Op 6. Watch a Muay Thai fight 7. Visit the Carp Cafe 8. Baan Kan...
@mayasgoingplaces
23.7K likes • 306K views

Wear Socks! 🧦

You'll need to remove your shoes to enter the main building, so wearing socks is recommended. Reddit

Pack Snacks & Drinks 🍎

There aren't many food or drink options nearby, so bring your own, especially on a hot day. Reddit

5 Hidden Gems in Chiang Mai: 1. Phar Chor Canyon 2. Fah Lanna Spa 3. My Forest Cafe 4. Tweechol Botanical Gardens 5. The Giant Treehouse See my previous posts on Phar Chor Canyon and Fah Lanna Spa for more information about these places 🥰 Tweechol Botanical Gardens is about 30 minutes away from Old City. Entrance fee is 86 Baht. It costs 75 Baht (2 USD) to rent a bicycle for 3 hours, 350 Baht (10)...
@alikainwanderlust
22.6K likes • 643.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Transport is Key 🚗

This palace is a bit out of the way. Factor in transport costs and time to get here from Chiang Mai's Old City. Reddit

Affordable Entry Fee 🎟️

The entrance fee is a bargain at just 20 baht for both locals and foreigners. Reddit

Wear Socks! 🧦

You'll need to remove your shoes to enter the main building, so wearing socks is recommended. Reddit

Pack Snacks & Drinks 🍎

There aren't many food or drink options nearby, so bring your own, especially on a hot day. Reddit

Learn Local History 📖

This is a great spot to understand Chiang Mai's rich history and its connection to the Siamese monarchy. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(596 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Dara Pirom Palace Museum for its affordable entry fee and the fascinating glimpse it offers into the life of Princess Dara Rasmi and Chiang Mai's royal history. The preserved European-style house and fragrant gardens are highlights, though its location requires dedicated transport and amenities are scarce.

"This place is a bit far from the usual tourist attractions and you will need transport to get here. The entrance fee is 20 baht.

There is a small bookshop that sells books related to the palace. Basically, it is a place for a consort of King Rama V. There is a guided tour of the building where Princess Dara Ratsami (sp) lived in when she was in chiang mai.

The story goes...a prince of chiang mai brought one of his daughters to see King Rama V. The King then asked his daughter, Dara Ratsami, to be his consort. The marriage was a good chance to establish ties and good relationships between the Lanna kingdom and Siam then.

After the marriage, Princess Dara Ratsami stayed in the royal palace in Bangkok and she only returned to chiang mai to live after the passing of King Rama V.

This is the place where the princess lived during the later part of her life. You can see the individual rooms, decorations, clothes, and other cultural items used during that era. It is not a very big place, but it is worth visiting if you like history.

Note: I did not see any shops selling food or drinks here. It might be difficult to find something to eat or drink nearby. So be prepared to bring along some food and drinks, especially if it is a hot day."

Darren

"It's a holiday of my life. Phra Tamnak is a European style wooden house art. The outside has a garden and it is a beautiful tree. The inside of the house is cool. I went here in April, it was quite hot. I love the local art decoration. Bringing the Chiang Mai people's lifestyle to exhibit Shin Call silk. Which is very memorable. Inside the building.
Each room will display the items of the equipment, the items of the owner of the palace. Each room will be different. Very interesting and interesting. The staff was very nice. I went there with shorts, but the staff also had northern style pants and leg for us to change without charge. I'm not sure that there is food and drink for sale. Because I was so excited to see the building that I wasn't interested in eating, me and drinks. This is one of the destinations you've come to Chiang Mai and should come to study the history of Chiang Mai."

ThaiEurop Channel

"If you’re interested in learning more about the rich history behind Chiang Mai’s glory, this museum is a must-visit piece of the puzzle. The entrance fee is just 20 baht for both Thais and foreigners.

The museum was once the residence of Princess Dara Rasmi, a consort of King Rama V. The interior is beautifully preserved, showcasing valuable items she collected during her lifetime. One of the highlights is the Chulalongkorn Roses, which bloom around the property, filling the air with their sweet fragrance."

Chatmongkol Tangthai

What People Like

Affordable entrance fee
Historical insights
Beautiful gardens

What People Dislike

Limited food/drink options
Requires own transport

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located outside the main tourist areas, so you'll need to arrange transport. Options include hiring a taxi or a Grab (ride-sharing app). The journey typically takes around 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. Reddit

It's advisable to arrange your return transport in advance or have your driver wait, as finding immediate rides back might be challenging. Reddit

Yes, renting a scooter is a popular option for exploring Chiang Mai and its surroundings, offering flexibility to reach the palace. Ensure you have the necessary permits and are comfortable riding in Thai traffic. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is very affordable at 20 Thai Baht for both Thai citizens and foreigners. Reddit

Information on specific discounts for children or seniors is not widely available, but the general admission fee is already very low. Reddit

The museum is typically open daily, but it's always a good idea to check the latest opening hours before your visit, as these can sometimes change. Reddit

No, advance booking is generally not required. You can purchase your tickets upon arrival at the entrance. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the beautifully preserved European-style wooden house, see Princess Dara Rasmi's personal belongings, clothing, historical photos, and admire the Chulalongkorn Roses in the garden. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are available and offer insights into the life of Princess Dara Rasmi and the history of the palace. Reddit

While there isn't a strict dress code, it's respectful to dress modestly. You will need to remove your shoes to enter the building, so wearing socks is recommended. Reddit

The main building is a historic wooden structure, and accessibility for those with mobility issues might be limited. It's best to inquire directly about specific accessibility features. Reddit

Photography rules can vary. It's best to check for signage or ask staff if photography is permitted inside the main building. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no shops selling food or drinks directly at the museum. It's recommended to bring your own snacks and beverages. Reddit

You'll likely need to travel back towards Chiang Mai city or find local eateries in nearby villages for dining options. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior of the European-style wooden house, the surrounding gardens with the Chulalongkorn Roses, and the historical artifacts inside (if photography is allowed) offer great photo opportunities. Reddit

Drone usage is generally restricted at historical sites and palaces. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Dara Pirom Palace Museum offers a glimpse into history, it might be less engaging for very young children who prefer more interactive experiences. However, older children interested in history or royal stories could find it fascinating. The beautiful gardens offer a space to wander, and the unique architecture can spark curiosity. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. Reddit

Consider framing the visit as a 'royal adventure' to capture their imagination. The story of Princess Dara Rasmi and her connection to the King can be a good starting point. Ensure children are aware of the need to be respectful of the historical artifacts and the quiet nature of the museum. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts

This museum is a must-visit for anyone keen on understanding the history of Chiang Mai and its royal connections. The preserved artifacts, personal belongings of Princess Dara Rasmi, and the historical context provided by guided tours offer deep insights into the Lanna Kingdom's relationship with Siam. Reddit

Pay close attention to the details in each room, the traditional Lanna silk exhibits, and the stories behind the Chulalongkorn Roses. The European-style architecture also provides an interesting point of study for those interested in historical design influences. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Art Lovers

The European-style wooden architecture of the palace offers a unique and picturesque backdrop for photography. The surrounding gardens, especially when the Chulalongkorn Roses are in bloom, provide beautiful natural elements. Inside, if photography is permitted, the preserved interiors and historical artifacts can make for compelling shots. Reddit

Focus on capturing the interplay of light and shadow on the wooden structures, the vibrant colors of the roses, and the intricate details of the historical items. The overall ambiance of the palace lends itself to creating evocative and artistic photographs that tell a story. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Royal Connection: Princess Dara Rasmi

Dara Pirom Palace Museum offers a unique window into the life of Princess Dara Rasmi, a beloved consort of King Rama V of Siam. Her story is intertwined with the political landscape of the time, as her marriage to the King helped forge stronger ties between the Lanna Kingdom (Northern Thailand) and Siam. After King Rama V's passing, she returned to her beloved Chiang Mai, making this palace her primary residence.

The museum meticulously preserves her living spaces, showcasing her personal belongings, traditional Lanna silk creations, and the attire she wore. Visitors can gain an intimate understanding of her lifestyle and the cultural richness of the era. The presence of the Chulalongkorn Roses, named after King Rama V, further enhances the romantic and historical ambiance of the grounds. Reddit

This historical site is more than just a collection of artifacts; it's a narrative of a significant royal figure and a testament to the enduring cultural heritage of Chiang Mai. It provides a valuable historical context for understanding the region's past and its connection to the Thai monarchy. Reddit

Architectural Charm and Garden Delights

The Dara Pirom Palace Museum stands out with its distinctive European-style wooden house architecture, a charming contrast to the more traditional Lanna structures often found in Chiang Mai. This architectural style reflects the influences and connections of the royal family during that period.

Inside, the palace is designed to showcase the personal living quarters of Princess Dara Rasmi. Each room is thoughtfully arranged to display items that were part of her daily life, offering visitors a sense of stepping back in time. The preservation of these elements allows for an immersive historical experience, making the visit particularly engaging for those interested in history and culture. Reddit

Beyond the house itself, the palace grounds are adorned with a beautiful garden, most notably featuring the Chulalongkorn Roses. These roses are not only visually appealing but also carry historical significance, adding another layer to the visitor's experience. The combination of elegant architecture and serene gardens makes the palace a picturesque and historically rich destination. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2