A Journey Through Thailand’s History in One Place
The Ancient City, also known as Muang Boran (เมืองโบราณ), is an open-air museum just outside Bangkok in Samut Prakan. It’s not very far from the city, but it feels completely different—spacious, peaceful, and filled with impressive replicas of Thailand’s most important temples, monuments, and architectural landmarks. We spent almost a full day there, and it’s definitely worth including if travellers want to learn more about Thai culture and history without visiting each region individually.
What to Expect
Muang Boran covers a massive area—about 300 acres—shaped roughly like Thailand. Each zone inside represents a different region, with detailed reconstructions of historical buildings, palaces, temples, and village scenes. Many of them were built using traditional methods, and some are full-size replicas of sites that either no longer exist or are too remote to visit easily.
The most striking landmarks we saw include the Sanphet Prasat Palace from Ayutthaya, a recreation of Phimai Sanctuary from the northeast, and the colourful Pavilion of the Enlightened floating above a pond. A few structures are original and were relocated here to preserve them. It feels like walking through a time capsule, especially with traditional music playing softly in some corners.
Getting Around
The area is huge, so walking isn’t ideal unless you only want to see a few parts. We rented bicycles, but electric carts and trams are also available. The roads are wide and easy to navigate, with signs in English and Thai. If visitors are short on time, the tram tour is the easiest way to see the main highlights.
short on time, the tram tour is the easiest way to see the main highlights.
Photography and Atmosphere
Because the place is well-maintained and not very crowded on weekdays, it’s a great spot for photography. There are bridges, pavilions over water, and gardens that give many areas a calm, balanced look. Unlike most theme parks, this one doesn’t feel commercial or noisy. Even families with young children seemed to enjoy it, thanks to the open space and variety.
History of the Ancient City
The Ancient City was founded in 1963 by Lek Viriyaphant, a Thai businessman and patron of the arts. He originally planned to build a miniature map of Thailand dotted with small models of important landmarks. However, as the project progressed, it became something much bigger. Instead of simple miniatures, full-scale replicas and reconstructions were built with guidance from historians and architects. Lek wanted to preserve Thai heritage and make it accessible to future generations, especially at a time when many historical structures were disappearing due to neglect or development. Today, Muang Boran is considered one of the world’s largest outdoor museums and a valuable educational site for both locals and international visitors.
Entry Fee and Tips
The entrance fee for foreigners is higher than for Thai citizens, but still reasonable for a full-day visit. There are a few restaurants and cafés inside, offering typical Thai dishes and drinks. Dress comfortably, bring sunscreen, and go early in the day—it gets hot and bright, especially in open areas.
Nearby Attraction: The Erawan Museum
If you’ve made the trip to The Ancient City, it’s worth stopping by the Erawan Museum, located only about 10 kilometres away. It was also created by Lek Viriyaphant, the same visionary behind The Ancient City. The museum is best known for its massive three-headed elephant sculpture, which can be seen from far away.
Inside, it houses a collection of religious art, antiques, and symbolic architecture spread across three levels, representing the underworld, Earth, and heaven according to Thai cosmology. The interior is just as striking as the exterior, with colourful stained glass ceilings and intricate carvings. It’s a smaller site compared to Muang Boran, but it offers a completely different experience that complements the visit well.
Ancient City Photos
The Ancient City Info
Location: Samut Prakan
Address: 296/1 Moo7 Sukhumvit Road, Bangpoomai, Amphoe Samut Prakan, Samut Prakan Province 10280
Hours: 9 am – 7 pm
Phone: 02 026 8800
Admission:
– Adult 700 Baht
– Children (6-14 years) 350 Baht
Website: https://www.muangboranmuseum.com/
The Ancient City Map
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