Dusit

Infobox_Amphoe
name=Dusit
province=Bangkok
thai=ดุสิต
capital=Dusit
coordinates=coord|13|46|37|N|100|31|14|E|type:adm2nd_region:TH
population=175,658
population_as_of=2000
area=10.7
density=16416.6
postal_code=10300
geocode=1002

Dusit ( _th. ดุสิต) is one of the 50 districts (Khet) of Bangkok, Thailand.

The district forms the main administrative center of Thailand, as both the national parliament as well as the royal palace are located in this district, as well as several ministries. It is connected with the Rattanakosin island by the Ratchadamnoen road (literally 'Royal way for traveling').

Neighboring district are (from north clockwise) Bang Sue, Phaya Thai, Ratchathewi, Pathum Wan, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Phra Nakhon, and across the Chao Phraya River the district Bang Phlat.

History

The district was established by King Chulalongkorn, who wanted to escape the cluttered area of the Rattanakosin Island.

The Vimanmek Palace was constructed in 1900 completely out of teak, and was used as a royal palace for a short time, but was abandoned in 1908. Revived and reconstructed in 1992 it is now a major touristical attraction of the district.

Chitralada Palace was built by King Vajiravudh (Rama VI), and is still the residence of the King of Thailand. The large park around the palace is used by King Bhumibol Adulyadej for agricultural research.

Buildings

Other important buildings in the district include the Ananta Samakom Throne Hall, which was another former residence of King Chulalongkorn, and was later used as the first parliament building. It was built 1907-1915 by the Italian architects Annibale Rigotti and Mario Tamagno. Next to the building is the Suan Amporn park, and across the street the Dusit Zoo. The vast space in front of Ananta Samakom Throne Hall is The Royal Plaza. At the middle of the plaza is the Equestrian Statue of King Chulalongkorn.

Various events are held in Suan Amporn park and Royal Plaza. Yearly events include commencements for many universities in Bangkok, and the Red Cross Fair which takes place for 9 days about the end of March till the first week of April.

Important administration offices such as The National Assembly and Government House are also in Dusit. Wasukri Pier is the pier to board and store Royal Barges, which sail in Thailand's Royal Barge Procession. Near the pier is National Library. Several other palaces are now convert to other use. For example, Chan Kasem Palace built for the crown prince by King Rama V was never used by King Rama VI and later became office for Ministry of Education. Suan Sunandha Palace built for queen, consorts, princes and princesses are now Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University.

The most famous buddhist temple of the district is Wat Benchamabophit, built by Prince Naris as the royal temple of King Chulalongkorn.

Transportation

The Bang Sue station of Bangkok Metro is located just a short distance outside Dusit district at its extreme northeast corner in Bang Sue district.

Administration

The district is sub-divided into 5 sub-districts ("Kwaeng").

External links

* [http://www.bma.go.th/dusit/ Official website of the Dusit district office] (Thai only)