Phra Chulachomklao Fort

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08:00 – 16:00

 

Phra Chulachomklao Fort, commonly known as “Pom Phra Chul”, is one of Thailand’s most significant coastal defense fortresses, located in Laem Fa Pha Subdistrict, Phra Samut Chedi District, Samut Prakan Province. The fort was constructed around March 1884 during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) as part of a strategic effort to defend Siam from Western colonial expansion, particularly from British and French forces entering via the mouth of the Chao Phraya River.

 

The location of the fort was carefully selected due to its strategic advantage at the river mouth, allowing it to effectively intercept incoming warships. Designed in a Western-style artillery format, the fort was equipped with seven Armstrong breech-loading guns (152/32 mm or 6-inch), making it the most technologically advanced defensive installation in Siam at the time.

 

Beyond its military significance, the fort represents King Chulalongkorn’s forward-thinking vision in modernizing Siam’s defense systems. At a time when traditional fortifications and defensive tactics—such as blocking river passages with chains—were becoming obsolete due to the emergence of steam-powered warships, the King invested his personal funds to build modern fortifications and acquire advanced weaponry to safeguard national sovereignty.

 

A defining historical moment associated with the fort is the Franco-Siamese crisis of 1893 (R.S. 112), when French naval forces advanced into Siamese territory. Phra Chulachomklao Fort played a key defensive role during this conflict, under the command of Danish naval officer André du Plessis de Richelieu, who oversaw the defense of the Chao Phraya River entrance.

 

One of the most remarkable features within the fort is the “Seua Mop Cannon” (Crouching Tiger Cannon), an Armstrong artillery system installed in a specially designed gun pit. Using a hydro-pneumatic recoil system, the cannon would lower itself after firing to absorb shock—giving rise to its distinctive name. This technology represented cutting-edge military engineering of the era and marked one of the earliest uses of breech-loading artillery in the Royal Thai Navy.

 

Another major attraction within the area is the HTMS Maeklong, a historic warship built in Japan in 1936 and commissioned in 1937. It served the Royal Thai Navy for 59 years, making it one of the longest-serving naval vessels in Thai history. The ship was used in multiple significant roles, including as a royal barge during the reigns of King Rama VIII and King Rama IX, and later as a naval training vessel. Today, it has been preserved as a museum ship for public education.

 

The site also features a monument dedicated to King Chulalongkorn, erected in 1993 to honor his contributions to the nation and his role in preserving Thailand’s independence. The monument stands as a symbol of national pride and historical remembrance.

 

Getting There is relatively convenient from Bangkok. Visitors can travel via Suk Sawat Road toward Phra Samut Chedi District, then continue to Laem Fa Pha. Alternatively, a ferry can be taken from Phra Pradaeng across the river, followed by a short drive to the fort. The route is suitable for a one-day historical excursion.

 

 

A: Yes, it is open daily from 08:00 to 16:00.

 

A: It was a key defensive structure during the Franco-Siamese crisis of 1893 and symbolizes Thailand’s effort to maintain independence.

 

A: Visitors can explore the Armstrong cannons, HTMS Maeklong, and the monument of King Rama V.

 

A: You can drive via Suk Sawat Road or take a ferry from Phra Pradaeng and continue by road.

 

A: There is no entrance fee for visiting the fort.