National Museum Bangkok: Thai Art and History Near the Grand Palace
The National Museum of Bangkok is near the Grand Palace and Khao San Road. King Rama V established it in 1874, and it’s housed in the former Wang Na Palace, which was previously the deputy king’s residence. The building itself is worth seeing, with traditional Thai architecture and decorative details on the facade.
The collection covers almost 2,000 years of Thai history, art, and culture. It’s one of the largest museums in Southeast Asia, spread across several buildings and halls. Plan for at least two hours if you want to see most of it.
What’s Inside
The exhibits include historical artefacts, sculptures, traditional costumes, and religious items. The layout is roughly chronological, starting from prehistoric times through the Sukhothai, Ayutthaya, and Rattanakosin periods.
The Buddha image collection is one of the highlights. Statues in bronze, stone, and wood from different periods and regions, showing how artistic styles changed over the centuries. Some are small and simple, others are large and elaborate.
The royal regalia section has crowns, ceremonial swords, and royal clothing. These items give a sense of how the Thai monarchy presented itself through history.
The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions on traditional crafts, folk art, or contemporary Thai art. Check what’s on when you visit.
Practical Info
The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Entry is 200 Baht for foreigners, 30 Baht for Thai citizens. Free English-language guided tours are offered on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 9:30 am, run by volunteers. The nearest MRT is Sanam Chai, about a 20-minute walk, or you can take a taxi or tuk-tuk from the Grand Palace area.
Good to combine with a visit to the Grand Palace or Wat Pho, both within walking distance.
More Photos of the National Museum Bangkok
National Museum Bangkok Info
Location: Bangkok Old Town
Address: 4 Na Phra That Road, Phraborommaharatchawang, Khet Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200
Hours: 8.30 am – 4 pm (closed Monday and Tuesday)
Phone: 02 224 1370
Price: 200 Baht (foreigners), 30 Baht (Thai citizens)
Guided tours: Free English tours Wed & Thu at 9:30 am
Closest MRT: MRT Sanam Chai (1.6 km, about 20 min walk)
Established: 1874
National Museum Bangkok Map
More About Bangkok Old Town
