But he certainly left a lasting impression in and around Petchburi, a town of some 35,000 inhabitants, dominated by a small hill now known as Khao Wang. It's wise not to try to feed them, and hang on tight to bags, cameras and sunglasses. While nearly all visitors wander through rooms converted into a museum giving some glimpse of the life of a ruling royal 150 years ago, many spend most of their time admiring views towards the distant halls and temples, one of which is a replica of the Emerald Buddha Temple of the Grand Palace in Bangkok. The royal influence at Petchburi can also be found at the Khao Luang cave, packed with Buddha images, the scene unusually lit by sunlight which filters through holes in the ceiling. It was a favorite picnic spot for King Mongkut, who installed many of the statues.
More colorful tiles are a feature.
Nothing Western in appearance, however, about Maruk Khatayawan Palace, at Cha-Am. According to the local guidebook, it was built by King Vajiravudh as a summer residence in the 1920s. The palace has been lovingly restored, timber floors mirror-sheen polished, gardens fastidiously manicured, topiary trimmed so that not a wayward twig spoils the shape. It, too, is open to visitors - but other existing royal residences remain private. And the swank resort hotels have sprung up, apparently watched over by the Standing Buddha.