Often described as the "Princess of Philanthropy," Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, younger sister of King Rama X, holds a deeply significant place in the hearts of the Thai people. Here is her story.

Childhood and Education

King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) and Queen Sirikit had four children:

• Princess Ubol Ratana, born April 5, 1951

• Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn (who succeeded his father as Rama X), born July 28, 1952

• Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, born April 2, 1955

• Princess Chulabhorn Walailak, born July 4, 1957

Sirindhorn: A Brilliant and Devoted Scholar

At age three, Sirindhorn entered the Chitralada kindergarten in Bangkok, where royal and civilian children were treated with equal respect. After completing secondary school in 1972, she enrolled at the Faculty of Arts at Chulalongkorn University. Graduating in 1976 as top of her class with a gold medal in History, Sirindhorn continued her academic excellence:

• Master's degree in Oriental Epigraphy in 1978 from Silpakorn University

• Doctorate in Pali and Sanskrit in 1980 from Chulalongkorn University

• Doctorate in Development Education in 1987 from Srinakharinwirot University

Languages and Passions

Princess Sirindhorn developed an exceptional passion for languages, becoming fluent in English, French, Mandarin Chinese, and German. Her intellectual curiosity spans a vast spectrum—from information technology and astronomy to biotechnology and numerous scientific disciplines. She continually enriches her knowledge through visits to academic institutions and exchanges with international experts, staying at the forefront of global innovation.

A Woman Committed Across Multiple Domains

To advance her nation's progress, Princess Sirindhorn is actively engaged on numerous fronts. In 1987, she was appointed Director of the History Department at the Royal Military Academy of Chulachomklao. She leads several foundations and philanthropic organizations:

• The Thai Red Cross Society

• The Chaipattana Foundation dedicated to environmental conservation

• The Anandha Mahidol Foundation for the advancement of higher education

• The Rama II Foundation promoting Thai culture

• The Prince Mahidol Foundation recognizing exceptional contributions in medicine and public health

In 1979, Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn founded the Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Foundation, which aims to improve the lives of Thai people—particularly victims of natural disasters—and supports disadvantaged children in their education.

What does Her Royal Highness enjoy doing in her leisure time?

Reading is the Princess's favorite pastime. She is an avid book collector and accomplished writer who penned her first poems at age twelve. Today, her travel journals generate significant revenue for the Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Foundation.

Her Royal Highness is also accomplished in traditional Thai musical instruments and classical Thai dance. An accomplished athlete, she enjoys trekking and cycling, which provide opportunities to observe Thailand's diverse wildlife, flora, and landscapes.

Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn: Thailand's Most Popular Royal

Since Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn was the only son of the King and Queen, the Thai constitution was amended in 1974 to permit female succession. After Princess Ubol Ratana relinquished her royal titles upon marrying an American businessman, Sirindhorn was placed second in line to the throne. Ultimately, the Thai crown passed to her brother, now Rama X, on December 1, 2016.

A Princess Deeply Woven into Thai Life

Among the four royal children, Princess Sirindhorn is the most beloved by Thai people. They affectionately call her "Phra Thep" or "Princess Angel," derived from her full royal title: Somdet Phra Theppharat Rat Suda Chao Fa Maha Chakkri Sirinthon Ratthasima Khunakon Piyachat Sayam Borommaratchakumari. Following in her father's footsteps, the daughter of Rama IX regularly travels throughout the country to understand the needs of her people and develop tailored development projects.

Infrastructure and Attractions Named After Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn

Several Thai attractions bear the name of Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn:

Sirindhorn International Environmental Park in Phetchaburi

Located along Phetchkasem Road in Phetchaburi Province, this park was established in 2005 to support the development of mangrove forests and coastal ecosystems. It offers families an extensive range of green activities. More than 80 bird species frequent the park, including white-throated kingfishers, herons, and Malaysian plovers.

Sirindhorn Dam in Ubon Ratchathani

The Sirindhorn Dam spans the Lam Dom Noi River in Ubon Ratchathani Province. Commissioned in 1971, this hydroelectric installation supplies irrigation water to agricultural fields and generates electricity for national markets.

Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Natural History Museum in Songkhla

Situated within Prince of Songkla University in southern Thailand, this natural history museum houses a collection of 25,000 specimens representing 2,500 animal species. Visitors can observe corals, mollusks, crustaceans, and insects. Rare creatures such as the Laotian giant flying squirrel and Thongaree's disk-nosed bat are also exhibited.

Schools and Universities

Several educational institutions have been renamed in honor of Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, including Sirindhorn School in Surin Province and Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology in Pathum Thani Province.