The National Museum
Whether you’re looking to educate yourself prior to purchasing antiquities, or wanting to gain a perspective of the rich tradition of the arts in Thailand, a visit to the National Museum in Bangkok is a must.
It’s well worth the visit, and you’ll want to allocate three hours to view the collection of statues, armaments, ceramics, jewelry, and puppets.
Our favorites include the Royal Funeral Chariots gallery and the Red House, a wonderful traditional Thai house made from interlocking panels and beams secured by pegs, and thus portable. Another highlight is the historical dioramas, populated by intricate models of warriors, elephants, and fortresses.
The National Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday, 9 am to 5 pm, but closed on official holidays.
To get there: We recommend the river taxi, to the Tha Pra Chan pier. From the pier, walk
east to Thanon Na Phra That, then turn left (north). Pass Thamassat University, and it
will be on your left. The little street connecting the pier to Na Phra That,has a nice
collection of interesting shops, selling everything from Buddhist amulets to pictures of
the Royal family.
