Exploring Thai royalty
by eMarketingEyeThe Suang Hong Residential Hall is the first historical mansion that visitors encounter in Dusit Garden upon entering through the Northern Gate. Built as a two storey wooden hall, the Suang Hong or Hong Garden is named after the mythical swan that served as Brahma’s vehicle. Being one of the most historically important buildings in Bangkok, the Suang Hong Residential Hall served as the palace of Queen Savang Vadhana who was the grandmother of King Rama V.
Visitors will pass through beautifully kept walkways and well manicured lawns to enter the Suang Hong Residential Palace, which is adorned with photographs of royal ceremonies depicting King Bhumipol and the Crown Prince. On the ground floor of the building rows of mannequins can be seen, modeling traditional royal attire. The upper floor contains a scaled model of the entire Dusit Gardens including the grounds and the palaces.
In a special room downstairs, the majestic Royal Barge Procession is depicted with elaborate models and pictures of the elaborately craved royal barges used for the ceremony. A video of the last Royal Barge Ceremony held in 2003 can also be viewed; this was organized in honour of the dignitaries that arrived for APEC summit in Bangkok.
A room upstairs explains the Royal Ordination Ceremony, pictures of the ordination ceremonies of King Bhumipol and the Crown Prince are also on display here. As all males in Thailand, even members of the royal family are ordained as Buddhist monks for a period of two years, it marks a significant milestone. Other important royal ceremonies such as the Royal Ploughing Ceremony, Royal Swing Ceremony, Royal Investiture Ceremony and the Royal Tonsure Ceremony are also depicted.
Located within close proximity of the Suang Hong Residential Hall is a Bangkok apartment that offers excellent accommodation. This Bangkok serviced apartment is well linked via the transportation system to other sights of the city.