Bangkok National Museum

Visitors witness the journey that saw Thailand transform from a humble fishing nation to the temple-clad tropical paradise it is today. The museum's collection includes musical instruments, clothing, armor, Buddhist relics, and several artifacts from past kingdoms such as Lanna, and Ayutthaya. The old "front palace" isn't only home to the museum, but forms part of it, with exhibits including the former throne room and reception hall.

Look Around

National Museum entrance

Ancient stone sculptures

Ancient etched document

Royal barge

Thai sculpture

Around Bangkok National Museum

Sculpture in front of a building

Buddhist shrine

Ancient bronze sculpture

Intricate gold carving

More exhibits

Who Will Like Bangkok National Museum

Culture Buff

View the largest collection of Thai art and historical artifacts in Thailand. Don't miss the oldest record of Thai writing on a stone pillar inscribed by King Ramkamhaeng and the collection of golden ceremonial chariots.

Insider Tips For Bangkok National Museum

• Collect a map at the ticket desk which details which items are located in which buildings.
• Choose the buildings you most want to visit and go to them first. The museum grounds are quite large and you may not fit all buildings into one visit. Most visitors start at the Gallery of Thai History, the closest building to the entrance.
• Shoes must be removed before entering religiously significant buildings, like the Buddhist galleries.
• Expect large bags and backpacks to be checked at the entrance.

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How To Get There

Tech & Photography

Food & Drink

The nearest cluster of restaurants are located near Kasap Road, a 10-minute walk northeast from the museum.

Backstory

Thailand's most precious historical art and artifacts were once stored within the Grand Palace and only accessible upon invitation from the Royal family. In 1874, King Rama V opened the collection to the Thai people, creating the nation's first public museum.

The museum's current location was formerly the palace of the vice king (or crown prince), known as Wang Na (front palace). When King Rama V dismantled the vice king's position in 1887, he ordered his father's collection of Thai art and artifacts to be moved to Wang Na, which became known as the Wang Na Museum, or Front Palace Museum. The museum's name was changed to Bangkok Museum in 1926, then again to Bangkok National Museum in 1934.

Etiquette

Scorecard

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