Joanna James
Bangkok's finest cultural sites have been given a facelift; visit these museums and discover Buddhist relics, historical artefacts and fascinating pieces of art.
This iconic museum is located within the 18th century Wang Na Palace and is home to the country's largest collection of Thai artefacts and works of art. The place certainly warrants a visit and is conveniently placed along the tour route of the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew. Within you will discover antiques donated by King Rama V which have all been given a new outlook due to the museum being re-organised and categorised under 3 sections of Thai history. The place is open from 9 am to 4 pm; Wednesday to Sunday.
The museum of Siam is easy to find as it sits south of Wat Pho within a beautiful Neo-classical house. Contrary to what one would expect to come across within a vintage building this museum is not made up of dusty relics. Instead what awaits you is a fascinating collection of modern art and some savvy new age technology. Aiming to shock and change your perspective of what to expect of a museum this contemporary site will beguile you with movies and images that sometimes provocatively showcase the true essence of Thai spirit. It is an experience that one will understand only once experienced; as such do head over to the Museum of Siam for a fresh perspective of art.
This museum revolves around a purpose built gallery that houses Thailand's most comprehensive collection of modern art. The MOCA is made up of 8 floors within which over 800 pieces of art work accumulated by Boonchai Bencharongkul are displayed. Open from 10 am to 6 pm the museum is located in Chatuchak and although not too far from any Sathorn hotel Bangkok offers you do have to hop in a taxi to reach the place. Consider getting to the Chong Nonsi BTS skytrain station just 0.9kms from Anantara Sathorn Bangkok Hotel; there you will find easy connections to the Mo Chit BTS in Chatuchak. From there you will need to make a 10 minute taxi ride to the museum; this is the only alternative. Taking the journey is worth it though for the memorable experience that awaits all art lovers within the MOCA.
This museum is rather hidden and is akin to a treasure chest once discovered. The place offers a 'frozen in time' aura which extends around the two traditional wooden houses that are well preserved and remain undisturbed since the 1800's. The museum offers free visits and all you need do is jot down your name in the guest book. Open from 10 am to 4 pm Monday to Sunday the place is located at 73 Charoen Krung under a bridge. Discovering the museum is part of the adventure.
This museum is located within the world's largest building that is made entirely of golden teak. Originally located in Ko Sichang the mansion was dismantled and rebuilt within the Dusit Palace grounds in 1900 under the instructions of King Rama V. Plenty of stately artefacts, furniture and crockery that pays homage to the revered king are yours to savour within this museum.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
