Trip Planner:   Asia  /  Thailand  /  Bangkok  /  The National Museum Bangkok

The National Museum Bangkok, Bangkok

4.0
#6 of 90 in Museums in Bangkok
Specialty Museum · Museum
Create an itinerary including The National Museum Bangkok
Go on a journey through thousands of years of Thai history and culture at The National Museum Bangkok, a treasure chest housed inside the former palace of Siamese viceroys. Originally established in 1874 by King Rama V to showcase his father's private collection of artwork, the museum now ranks among the largest in Southeast Asia and displays various aspects of Thai heritage. You can admire everything from precious stones to ornamental clothes, and from prehistoric artifacts to royal thrones. In addition to the rich Thai collection, the museum displays objects from other parts of Southeast Asia and China, including weapons, sculptures, and musical instruments. Information in English and multilingual tours provide context for visitors without knowledge of the Thai language. Arrange your visit to The National Museum Bangkok and discover more family-friendly attractions in Bangkok using our Bangkok holiday maker.
Create a full itinerary - for free!

Tours to The National Museum Bangkok

The National Museum Bangkok reviews

Rate this attraction
TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.0
911 reviews
Google
4.6
TripAdvisor
  • This is a big museum with abundant collections of Buddha, archaeological artefacts and royal collections. It is not just an exhibit all in one but separated in different buildings, which scatter in a....  more
    This is a big museum with abundant collections of Buddha, archaeological artefacts and royal collections. It is not just an exhibit all in one but separated in different buildings, which scatter in a....  more »
  • Each building covers one era of Thai history. Lot to see. You will need more than 8 hours to see. So skip small stuff. Great ancient murals in the pagoda 
    Each building covers one era of Thai history. Lot to see. You will need more than 8 hours to see. So skip small stuff. Great ancient murals in the pagoda  more »
Google
  • This museum has some beautiful collections, especially of religious relics and royal treasures, which are well presented. The quality of the pieces is very impressive, and a testament to Thailand's rich history. Tickets for foreigners are 200 baht, and it is worth noting you cannot take food, drinks or any bag larger than a handbag inside. It is also worth considering wearing shoes which are easy to take on and off, as 5/6 exhibitions require you to take your shoes off. The only improvements I would suggest for this museum is perhaps providing more context for the pieces and their historical settings. I am a qualified archaeologist, but not being overly familiar with Thai history I found it hard to understand some pieces. Perhaps more visual aids such as maps or recreating historical scenes would be useful?
  • The national museum is surprisingly a great place for visit in Bangkok. Located on a historic estate, the buildings have their charms and breeze from the past. Really recommended for both locals and foreigners to learn and appreciate Thai history and culture. The museum has been renovated, professionally improved and organised, since the last time I visited 5 years ago (though, some buildings are still under renovation). Displayed objects are stunningly good and captured most of Thailand history and events from past to present. For museum lovers, could spend at least half a day.

Plan your trip to Bangkok

  • Compose it!
    Your own itinerary for your car vacation, beach vacation, city trip, any near or distant journey ... ready within 10 minutes.
  • Customize it.
    Refine your plan. We find the best routes and opportunities.
  • Book it.
    Choose from the best accommodations (Expedia, AirBnB), airlines and activities, by yourself or share with travel professionals for the utmost experience. Up to 50% discount!
  • Do it yourself.
    Or share your plan with travel professionals for a customized trip