“Elevated to its own district November 9 1989.” That’s a phrase that encapsulates the story of Ratchathewi District Office. This office stands as a testament to Bangkok’s evolving administrative landscape. We stand before the Ratchathewi District Office a vital hub in central Bangkok.
Before its establishment as an independent district Ratchathewi was part of Dusit district until 1966. It then became part of Phaya Thai District from 1966 to 1989. Finally it gained its own distinct identity.
The name Ratchathewi is inherited from the Ratchathewi Intersection. This is the junction where Phetchaburi Road meets Phaya Thai Road. The name has royal origins. It comes from Phra Nangchao Sukumalmarsri Phra Ratchathewi a royal consort to King Chulalongkorn. Phra Rachathewi is a royal rank for royal consorts.
Ratchathewi District Office oversees four sub-districts. These are Thung Phaya Thai Thanon Phaya Thai Thanon Phetchaburi and Makkasan. Each sub-district has its own unique character and contributes to the district’s overall vibrancy.
The Ratchathewi District itself is a bustling area in central Bangkok. It is known for its key landmarks. Victory Monument stands as a tribute to soldiers who died in the French-Thai War. Baiyoke Tower and Baiyoke Tower II dominate the skyline. Suan Pakkad Palace offers a glimpse into Thai art and history.
Ratchathewi boasts excellent connectivity. The BTS skytrain has three stations here. These are Ratchathewi Phaya Thai and Victory Monument. The MRT has one station Phetchaburi. The Airport Rail Link also has three stations. These are Phaya Thai Ratchaprarop and Makkasan. Express boats on Khlong Saen Saeb provide an alternative mode of transport.
Bueng Makkasan is a large artificial lake within Ratchathewi. It plays a crucial role in flood prevention. It is now covered by expressway interconnections.
Ratchathewi is also an educational hub. It is home to Mahidol University’s Phaya Thai Campus. Valaya Alongkorn Rajabhat University’s Bangkok Campus is also located here. Numerous schools including The Indonesian School of Bangkok Sri Ayudhya School and Saint Dominic School are located in Ratchathewi.
The Sansiri report emphasizes Ratchathewi’s central location. It provides easy access to major attractions. The Ratchathewi BTS Skytrain station is close to the Ari district. Siam station and Thonglor/Ekkamai are also easily accessible. Suvarnabhumi Airport is a 30-minute ride via the Airport Rail Link.
The Victory Monument area is known for lifestyle outlets. Century movie theatre Centre One shopping mall and King Power Duty Free Complex are all located here. The Bangkok Dolls and Museum is a unique attraction. Phayathai Palace is a hidden gem.
Ratchathewi also has diverse dining options. Casa Lapin offers coffee and cafe fare. La VIE provides a fine-dining experience. Cocowalk offers vibrant nightlife.
As we conclude our visit to the Ratchathewi District Office remember its journey from a part of Dusit to an independent district. It represents Bangkok’s dynamic growth. It stands as a vital administrative center in a district brimming with history culture and modernity.