Chulalongkorn University, or Chula, is Thailand’s oldest university, founded in Bangkok in 1917 by King Vajiravudh in memory of his father, King Chulalongkorn. Its campus in Pathum Wan has shaded walkways, ponds and carefully kept grounds. Look for traditional Thai architectural details, especially at the Faculty of Arts, where two older-style buildings sit among courtyards and lawns. March and April bring pink bauhinia petals to the paths. You can explore on foot or use the campus bike-sharing system.
A university founded in 1917
Chulalongkorn University began as a school for training civil servants. King Chulalongkorn established the Civil Service Training School in 1899, with lessons for royal pages and government workers in specialist fields. The school was renamed the Royal Pages School in 1902.
In 1917, King Vajiravudh established the university and named it for his father, King Chulalongkorn, also known as Rama V. Today, Chula is in Bangkok’s Pathum Wan district.
Architecture and campus paths
The campus combines academic buildings with shaded paths, ponds and landscaped grounds. The Faculty of Arts is a good place to look for older Bangkok-style architecture: its two buildings have courtyards and manicured lawns.
The grounds are flat, with wide sidewalks and limited motor traffic. A bike-sharing system is available, and electric buses, tuk-tuks and buggies also provide transport around campus. In March and April, bauhinia trees flower; fallen petals can briefly cover sections of the walkways.
FAQ
When is the best time to see flowers at Chulalongkorn University?
The bauhinias blossom in March and April. Fallen pink petals can cover parts of the walkways during this period.
What can you see at Chulalongkorn University?
The campus has ponds, shaded paths and landscaped grounds. At the Faculty of Arts, look for two buildings with older Bangkok-style details, courtyards and lawns.
How can you get around the campus?
You can walk or use the bike-sharing system. Electric buses, tuk-tuks and buggies are also available on campus.
