Thalang National Museum

A Journey Through Phuket’s Rich Past

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The Thalang National Museum in Phuket has undergone a significant transformation and is now nearly fully reopened. As of May 2025, only one final room remains under renovation, with plans to reopen it by June 2025. This marks a major milestone for the museum, which had previously suffered from neglect and outdated exhibits.

A Fresh Look at Phuket’s Past

Originally established in 1985, the Thalang National Museum was created to preserve and showcase the rich history of Phuket and the surrounding Andaman region. Over time, however, the museum fell into disrepair and was often overlooked by visitors. Recognising its cultural importance, a comprehensive renovation project was initiated, leading to a phased reopening that began in 2020. Now, with the majority of its exhibits accessible, the museum offers a better experience for those interested in the island’s heritage.

Exhibits That Chronicle Centuries

The museum’s collections span from prehistoric times to the modern era, providing insights into the diverse cultures and events that have shaped Phuket. Visitors can explore ancient artefacts, including pottery, tools, and jewellery, that shed light on early human settlement in the region. One of the highlights is a 3.5-meter-tall statue of the Hindu deity Vishnu, dating back to the 9th century, discovered in Phang Nga province.

Gallery 1: Phuket Island and Early Inhabitants of the Andaman

The first gallery begins with a model of Phuket Island and provides basic information about its geological formation, including rocks, minerals, and natural water sources. From there, visitors can enter a small screening room to watch a short film titled “Phuket: Pearl of the Andaman Sea.” The film helps set the stage, explaining how Phuket grew from a remote island into a tin mining hub and later into the world-famous tourist destination it is today.

The room also features early artefacts found along the Andaman Sea, such as pottery, stone tools, bronze drums, beads, and religious items. Several illustrations and maps on display show how the region looked in the past, when Phuket was still known as “Junkceylon.” While the objects themselves are simple, they represent a deep timeline of human presence in the area.

Gallery 2: The Battle of Thalang

One of the key historical events for the island is the Battle of Thalang in 1785, and this story takes centre stage in the second gallery. At that time, the Burmese army launched an invasion of Phuket, and two local sisters, Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Si Sunthon, led the resistance and successfully defended the island. They are now honoured as heroines, and their memory is also celebrated at the Heroines Monument nearby.

This gallery includes large-scale dioramas showing battle scenes and the two sisters in action. Ancient weapons are displayed alongside the exhibits, giving visitors a clearer picture of the tools used in warfare at the time. It’s one of the more visually striking parts of the museum and provides a good introduction to the island’s strategic importance in the region. (section not yet opened)

Gallery 3: The Chinese and the Development of Phuket

The third section focuses on the Chinese community and their role in shaping Phuket’s economy and culture. Visitors walk through a recreated street scene that includes Sino-Portuguese shop houses, a money changer, and an old-fashioned coffee shop. The exhibits highlight how Chinese immigrants influenced local architecture, trade, and customs, especially during the tin mining boom of the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Photographs, documents, furniture, and clothing give a more personal feel to this part of the museum. It’s not just about dates or events – it shows how people lived, worked, and celebrated in everyday life. It also helps explain why Phuket Old Town still reflects so much of this unique mixed heritage today.

Gallery 4: The People of Phuket

This gallery presents the cultural diversity of the island. While Phuket is often thought of only in terms of Thai or Chinese influence, other ethnic groups have also played an important role. Displays in this gallery include Muslim communities, indigenous local Thais, and the Sea Gypsies (also known as Chao Lay).

A highlight here is the life-size scene of the Sea Gypsies’ boat-floating ceremony, which remains a significant tradition among their communities. It’s a visual and immersive section that reminds visitors that the island’s population has always been more complex than it may seem at first glance.

A Worthwhile Detour

While the Thalang National Museum may not be on the typical tourist trail, it offers a meaningful exploration of Phuket’s multifaceted history. The recent renovations have breathed new life into its exhibits, making it a valuable destination for those seeking to understand the island beyond its beaches. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious traveller, the museum provides a concise yet comprehensive journey through the events and cultures that have shaped Phuket.

There’s plenty of free parking, and the grounds are quiet and shaded, making it a pleasant stop for an hour or two. While the museum is not interactive like modern high-tech attractions, it is informative and visually upgraded, with better lighting, labels in both Thai and English, and air-conditioned galleries.

More Photos of Thalang National Museum

Photos of the old Thalang Museum