Bangkok National Museum. 

The National Museum in Bangkok was developed into a 'National' museum in 1934 after several years as the Bangkok Museum. It houses many exhibits relating to the development of Thailand since prehistoric times.

There are fine examples of Thai Art, Thai history of course, and Archaeological finds throughout the ages. They are to be found in permanent exhibition galleries. The Thai History Gallery, The Pre-history Gallery, The art History Gallery and also the Gallery for Decorative Arts and Ethnology.

The names of the galleries at the National Museum Bangkok speak for themselves. They are a treasure trove of superbly cared for National Treasures which outline the  progress and development of Thailand through to the modern day.

Of particular interest in the National Museum, is the Ethnology Collections, gold artefacts, precious stones and fabrics together with ceramics, weaponry, carved ivory exhibits, and musical instruments from times gone by - both Thai and neighbouring countries, for Thailand owes much of its cultural heritage from other Eastern countries.

One of many superb Pavilions at The National Museum - The Sala Longsong Pavilion
This pavilion once belonged to the Palace of King Vajiravudh, Rama VI, in Nakhon Pathom.

Of the many surrounding buildings in the extensive grounds of The National Museum, The Buddhaisawan Chapel rates high in importance, for it is home to the Buddha image of Phra Buddhasihing. The interwoven history of Thailand with it's neighbours is highlighted here in that the Buddha image was purportedly made in Sri Lanka - Ceylon as was then - and transported to Sukhothai, and then later to Ayatthuya, and Chiang Rai then on to the Buddhaisawan Chapel.  The image is made from bronze, plated with gold and stands 1.6m high.

There are several smaller pavilions within the National Bangkok Museum's grounds, all of which were used for various occasions of ceremonial importance throughout Thai history. Superb examples of the Bangkok period of Thai Architecture.

(Location and Travel - Courtesy of the Bangkok National Museum)

The National Museum Bangkok
Na Phrthat Rd., Phra Borommaharachawang Sub-district,
Phra Nakorn District, Bangkok 10200
Located between Thammasat University and The National Theatre, opposite Grand Park (Sanamluang)

Museum Education Section Tel.662-224-1333 Fax. 662-224-1404
Curator Staff Section Tel 662-224-1402

For Travelling
By Bus No. 3, 6, 9, 15, 19, 30, 32, 33, 43, 53, 59, 64, 65, 70, 80, 84
Air Condition bus No. 3, 6, 7, 38, 39, 80, 82, 91
Airport Bus No A2.