Joanna James
Having its doors to the public nearly 18 years ago, the Museum of Siam has rapidly become one of Thailand's finest cultural highlights. While there are many engaging cultural displays on show at the institution, here are 5 exhibits tourists can't afford to miss on a tour of the museum.
Often cited as the best reason to visit the Museum of Siam in the first place, the traditional clothing gallery includes a diverse and wide range of exhibits. Diving deep into the traditional clothing worn by citizens of different regions in Thailand, the museum also showcases the costumes and headdresses that were donned for theatrical performances as well as special cultural ceremonies. Documenting the evolution of Thai dress throughout the ages, visitors can also witness how dance and theatre costumes have changed over the years via the gallery's multimedia reels. The exhibits in this area include not only conventional instruments but also ancient items used in local festivals and religious occasions.
Frequented by those who have secured Bangkok hotel accommodation in venues such as Maitria Hotel Rama 9 Bangkok and other rest in the area, this particular exhibit is one that's tailor-made for history buffs. Offering visitors an in-depth and extensive look at the rise and fall of the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya Kingdoms, the pre-historic collections on show in this gallery are especially affecting. The ancient manuscripts, pottery and sculptures dating back to these bygone eras are also a part of the museum's extensive collection of relics. The audio-visual presentations in this section of the museum are also moving as they sadly document the fate of artefacts that were destroyed in armed conflicts and catastrophic fires.
The Learning Mode galleries in the museum are equally compelling given how interactive digital tools are used to teach visitors about historic and cultural events that shaped Thailand. The interactive trade hub called the "Trading Post" is arguably its best feature as travellers can get a sense of what goods were part of the country's international trade in the past. Thai trading routes and the nation's most lucrative exports are all part and parcel of this interactive experience while foodies can check out the "The Kitchen of the Past" display. Thai food culture, traditional culinary tools and cooking techniques are the main focus of this interactive "kitchen."
While the museum's permanent collections are popular among locals and visitors, tourists should not miss the special exhibitions that take place at the venue during specific times of the year. Although the temporary exhibitions rotate depending on the season, most of these exhibitions offer visitors the chance to catch a glimpse of rare relics and artefacts that are not publically exhibited. These thematic collections are often sourced from museum archives, special collections or in collaboration with other museums.
Those interested in understanding Thai history and its evolution must spend time in "The Accounts of Thailand" permanent exhibition. Exploring topics such as the country's economic rise and the riddles synonymous with Suvarnabhumi, is a fun and interesting way to decode Thai history, culture and identity.
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.
