Bangkok National Museum

If you’re looking to embark on a fascinating journey through Thailand’s rich historical heritage, then the Bangkok National Museum is not to be missed. The museum houses Thailand’s largest collection of art and crafts, and provides an invaluable stock of Thai heritage and artwork. While visiting the National Museum, you’ll get to view ancient sculptures, royal antiques and statues of Buddha which span every generation of Thailand’s history, while all the time basking in the ambience and splendour of traditional Thai architecture.

The National Museum Bangkok owes its existence to King Rama V, who founded the museum in the 19th century. The museum as it is today grew out of a public display that the then king opened in 1874, to display some of the treasures bequeathed to him by his father. The museum has continued to grow since then, and is now a hugely popular and renowned tourist destination.

The museum contains various galleries that span Thailand’s history, moving from the period associated with the nation’s first capital cities, Sukothai and Ayutthaya, all the way through to the present day. The collection of art, musical instruments, costumes and antiques on display is simply staggering, and you’ll need more than one day here to see everything. If this isn’t an option and time is short, guides and maps are available so you can choose the areas you are most interested in.

Also contained within the Bangkok National Museum is the teak Red House, which was originally constructed for a sister of King Rama I. The Buddhasaiwan shrine is also highly popular; this exquisite building contains some of Bangkok’s oldest murals, along with a Phra Phutta Sihing statue. The true origins of this revered Buddha figure is not known, but Bangkok is one of three cities that claims to be in possession of an original.

The ornate halls of the museum also bear other treasures and relics, such as funeral chariots. These now largely decorative ancient forms of transport are still occasionally used to take royal subjects to their final resting place.

The National Museum Bangkok is located in the Old City. It is well within walking distance of the Grand Palace or Khao San Road, or taxis and ferries are also available, with the Tha Phrachan Nuea pier being the best place to embark. The National Museum Bangkok is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays and during national public holidays. A small admission fee is payable on entry.