The prince was a son of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) and Chao Chom Manda Thapthim Rochanatisha.

The prince was part of the first group of the king's sons sent to Europe to study, spending time there from 1885 - 1896.

The 17th child of King Chulalongkorn and Chao Chom Manda (consort mother) Thapthim Rochanatisha.

The king and Thapthim would have two more children: Princess Praves Vorasamai (1879-1944) and Prince Vudhijaya Chalermlabha (1883-1947).

He tied sacred strings around the four elder brothers, poured holy water on them and fingered powders on their forehead.

His Majesty gave them blessings, and wished that they leave [Siam] with happiness in their hearts, and remember his teachings.

The King invited the female members of the royal family to also be present, that the princes may say goodbye to their mothers.

[2] After his return to Siam, the prince advised King Chulalongkorn on the creation of a permanent general staff for the Royal Siamese Army.

In 1903 the prince was instrumental in the effort to reform the army by creating a system of regional conscription and training.

After the death of his father in 1910, he was appointed by the new king, his younger brother, Vajiravudh as the Minister of Defence.