The Bangkok National Museum

The National Museum of Bangkok

A cultural stop on the Bangkok audio-guided tour, the National Museum is one of the city's great treasures. Its founding goes back to Rama V who, newly crowned, decided in 1874 to open a place to preserve and share his father's private collections.

In the former palace of the viceroy

First housed within the Grand Palace, the museum was transferred in 1887 to the former palace of the viceroy, the Wang Na. Its three wings trace the entire history of Thailand, from prehistory to the early twentieth century. The galleries display small archaeological objects as well as majestic Buddhist statues and superb pieces of Thai art.

What to see

Among the masterpieces are the elegant statues from the Sukhothai era and the gigantic royal funeral chariot, used for the ceremonies of the kings. With its exceptionally rich collections, the National Museum of Bangkok is considered the largest and most important in all of Southeast Asia.

Practical information

The National Museum is in the Phra Nakhon district, near the Grand Palace. Opening days, hours and prices should be checked depending on the season with the institution.

When was the National Museum founded ?

In 1874 by King Rama V, to preserve and share his father's collections.

What can be admired there ?

Statues from the Sukhothai era and the gigantic royal funeral chariot, among other treasures.