Thailand is one of the most popular destinations for backpackers worldwide and for a valid reason. It is an exceedingly remarkable place that possesses some of the most extraordinary islands and beaches across the globe. Thailand also enjoys exceptional weather conditions throughout the year; the temperatures never fall below 20 degrees even during the winter season! Whether you are searching for a romantic escape, a trip down memory lane, or an adventurous vacation encompassing long tail boats, Thailand offers it all.
8 Finest Museums In Thailand
Nevertheless, examine these 8 fascinating museums in Thailand that you must incorporate into your itinerary during your vacation in this tropical paradise.
1. Jim Thompson House Museum
An architect from New York who resided in Thailand and served as a soldier in World War II played an instrumental role in establishing the silk industry in Thailand. Jim Thompson’s splendid traditional Thai residence was renovated and transformed into a museum as a tribute to the man who was honored with the royal Order of White Elephant. This museum of Thai art harbors an invaluable and rare collection of Asian art silk. This site comprises a collection of 6 traditional Thai-style wooden dwellings featuring gracefully arched roofs and splendid Naga serpent motifs. The Thompson house additionally houses an art center where you can procure items from the ongoing exhibitions that are organized throughout the year. Another captivating art museum in Bangkok that you can explore is the 100 Tonson Gallery, conveniently located near the Thompson museum.
Location: 1 Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok, ThailandTimings: open daily from 9am–6pmEntry Fee: up to $ 3.07 USD
2. The National Museum Bangkok
Whoever claimed that museums are uninteresting? The national museum of Thailand is one of the most captivating museums, serving as a home to the rich art, history, and culture of this nation. Situated within the former Wang Na Palace, this museum boasts a rare collection pertaining to ethnology consisting of shadow puppets, Khon masks, classical dance attires, and traditional musical instruments from the bygone era. This museum is spread across 6 distinct edifices and houses sculptures and rare busts originating from the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya eras in Thai history. Of particular interest is the Buddha Jawan Chapel, where visitors can admire the famous inscription #1 from King Ramkhamhaeng in the Sivamokhapiman gallery.
Location: 4 Na Phra That Alley, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, BangkokTimings: open daily from 9am–4pmEntry Fee: $5.75
3. Chiang Mai National Museum
Chiang Mai city ruled as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom during 1296. This was the largest city in Northern Thailand and thrived until it was invaded in 1557 by the Burmese. You will encounter numerous ancient artifacts from this kingdom at the Chiang Mai National museum, which may be small in size, but possesses a wealthy collection of Lanna style objects, pottery, artwork, and crafts. This is one of the finest museums in Thailand that offers visitors an understanding of the economic and educational progress of this former royal city.
Location: 5, Jalan Perdana, Tasik Perdana, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, ThailandHours: daily: 9am–4pmAdmission Fee: $0.92
4. Thai-Burma Railway Centre Museum
This is one of the top-notch museums in Thailand, situated just beside the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery. It presents a distinct exhibition on the glorious past of the Thailand – Burma railway, a 145 km railway line that operated between Bang Pong and Thanbyuzayat during the period of World War II. It was constructed during the invasion of the Imperial Japanese Army, by the prisoners of war. There are various photographs showcasing the planning and construction of the railway, as well as the living conditions of the prisoners in the camps, summary of fatalities, medical aspects, railway operations, and also the bombing and eventual termination of the railway.
Location: 73 Jaokannun Road, BanNua, Amphoe Muang, Kanchanaburi 71000, Thailand,Hours: daily: 9am–5pmAdmission Fee: $3.45 and $1.70 for children 7-12
5. Condom Museum
One of the most offbeat attractions in Bangkok, the Condom museum welcomes a number of curious tourists throughout the year. This museum was established by the Ministry of Health with the goal of addressing the negative perceptions surrounding condom usage in the population. This Bangkok museum is situated in a serene corner of the expansive Ministry of health complex. It boasts several small chambers that exhibit the history of condoms and their production process. On display, you’ll find condoms of various hues, flavors, and dimensions. Additionally, you’ll be guided through the testing chambers, where the museum staff will demonstrate just how far a small rubber piece can stretch!
Location: Ministry of Public Health, Building 9, Department of Medical Sciences, BangkokOpening Hours: Mon–Fri: 9am–5pmAdmission Fee: Free
6. Museum of Siam: National Discovery Museum Institute
If you’re traveling with children, this is a must-visit. Also known as Discovery museum, this well-designed establishment provides an insight into Thai culture. It presents a chronological journey through the country’s history, as visitors move from one chamber to another. Each room in the Museum of Siam is equipped with digital exhibits that visitors can interact with. There are also several video displays that delve into the history and ethnography of Thailand. The videos have English subtitles, and the warm and welcoming staff go out of their way to ensure that every visitor has a fulfilling experience at this interactive museum – where you’re encouraged to touch and explore everything.
Location: 4 Maha Rat Rd, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200, ThailandOpening Hours: 10am – 6pm, closed on MondayAdmission Fee: $3.07 USD
7. Erawan Museum
This exceptional museum, featuring a three-headed elephant, is situated on the outskirts of Bangkok in Samut Prakan. It’s located just a few kilometers away from the renowned Bang Na station, making it easily accessible. The Erawan museum in Bangkok, Thailand, boasts a colossal 3-headed elephant that towers at an impressive height of 43.6 meters and is estimated to weigh nearly 150 tons! Apart from the awe-inspiring elephant, the museum offers much more. It was constructed and designed to preserve Thailand’s rich heritage through visual arts and religion. Surrounding the museum’s base, which is adorned with Thai scriptures, is a flowing stream of water. Locals buy lotuses and float them in these waters, believing it will bring them good fortune.
Position: 99/9 Bang Mueang Mai, Mueang Samut Prakan District, Samut Prakan 10270, Thailand
Working Hours: Daily: 9am–7pm
Cost: Starting from $9.44
8. Siriraj Medical Museum
There is an abundance of captivating attractions in Thailand, and Siriraj medical museum is one of them. This museum functions as an informative site for medical students as well as tourists from around the world. This unexpected museum showcases peculiar displays such as deceased bodies of murderers and rapists, preserved embryos, tools used in homicides, and victims of extraordinary circumstances that can unsettle those with a delicate constitution!
Position: 2 Thanon Wang Lang, Khwaeng Siriraj, Khet Bangkok Noi, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10700, Thailand
Working Hours: daily: 10am–5pm
Cost: $9.45
Further Reading: 10 Best Beaches In Koh Tao That Are Worth Exploring On Your Next Thailand Trip
From entertaining museums to delightful cuisine to other extraordinary attractions, Thailand possesses all the components to serve as a flawless holiday destination for individuals of all ages. So be sure not to overlook these intriguing museums on your upcoming vacation in Thailand with your loved ones!
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