The National Museum of Bangkok It is actually the same building that used to be the royal palace. Therefore it is no wonder that this is one of the largest and most impressive buildings in the East. A visit to the National Museum at the beginning of the trip will allow you to get a better understanding of the ancient temples and sites that you will see later. The museum offers a wide collection of art objects and various relics, many of the items are the possessions of kings and originate from all over the Asian continent. Through those performances, the story of the ancient Thai nation, or as it was called in the past - the Kingdom of Siam, is told.
The place has existed since the 19th century, from 1874. At first it was used as a warehouse for valuable objects of King Rama of that time. 50 years later, in 1934, in order to protect the items, the place passed to the management of the local art council. Since then it has undergone many renovations and innovations, some even in recent years. In 2018, the place was also upgraded with explanations in English and became especially friendly for tourists.
The large and beautiful spaces of the place contain permanent and changing exhibitions, you can update the website to check this. For example, in the gallery of Thai history you can see a stone pillar over 700 years old, probably the oldest preserved item from the ancient kingdom. In the art and archeology gallery you will find many works, some even from the 6th century AD. The exhibition of decorative items and ethnic objects is the most popular and displays a variety of precious stones, traditional tools, ancient masks, samurai swords and more.
There is also an abundance of very interesting and diverse buildings, models and relics, some of which were donated from different countries in the world as gifts to the king. At the entrance you can hire a guide if you want to explore the museum in more depth. Please note that this is a spacious place and part of the museum tour is held in open areas. You should be equipped according to the weather - bring an umbrella if there is rain or protect yourself against the sun.
Opening times - Wednesday to Sunday, 16:00-08:30 (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays).
Prices - An entrance ticket costs 200 baht (for purchase at the entrance desk).
How to get - The museum is in a central and very convenient location in the city, about a 10-minute walk away From Kawasan Road (less than one kilometer). Anywhere else in Bangkok is possible take a taxi (it's a good idea to ask the driver to turn on a meter), or take a river taxi to Maharaj Pier, from where it's another 15 minutes' walk.
Exact address: Soi Na Phra That, Khwaeng Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10200.
what's around Bangkok National Museum is surrounded by many interesting places and street stalls with delicious food. The closest temple is Wat Mahathat, which is a few minutes' walk south of the museum. The large vipassana center is also in the area and offers one of the best known markets in the city. The Royal Palace and Wat Phra Kaew temple are also south of the museum, a little further.
