{"id":720830,"date":"2024-06-05T16:09:26","date_gmt":"2024-06-05T10:39:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/traveltriangle.com\/blog\/?p=720830"},"modified":"2024-06-05T16:09:26","modified_gmt":"2024-06-05T10:39:26","slug":"must-see-exhibits-at-chao-sam-phraya-national-museum","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/traveltriangle.com\/blog\/chao-sam-phraya-national-museum\/","title":{"rendered":"Must-See Exhibits At Chao Sam Phraya National Museum"},"content":{"rendered":"

Chao Sam Phraya National Museum<\/strong> is the second largest museum in Thailand among some of the oldest and most unique Buddha statues and artefacts. With a wide range of collections of Buddha statues, ornaments, ancient paintings, household essentials and ceremonial objects from the 14th to 18th century, the artefacts would leave you all mesmerised. The museum houses extensive gold statues and jewellery of the historic period highlighting the propensity of Ayutthaya. The museum has been instrumental in preserving the rich Thai heritage. If you are a history or archaeological enthusiast, this museum trip might become a core memory for years. <\/em><\/p>\n

History Of Chao Sam Phraya National Museum<\/h2>\n
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Image Credit: Iudexvivorum for Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

The Chao Sam Phraya National Museum in Thailand was built in 1961 to preserve and showcase the exquisite artefacts recovered from Wat Ratchaburana and Wat Mahathat. Built under the Department of Fine Arts, the museum was named after King Chao Sam Phraya to highlight the prosperity and culture of his era. The museum is systematically built with different buildings dedicated to the era of the Ayutthaya period. A trip to the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum would be a fulfilling experience. If you are keen on learning more about history and culture, it would be a rewarding trip for you.<\/p>\n

Must Read:<\/strong> Backpacking In Thailand<\/a><\/p>\n

Must See Things In Chao Sam Phraya National Museum<\/h2>\n

Chao Sam Phraya National Museum was built to showcase the artefacts and treasures in Wat Ratchaburana and Wat Mahathat. Constructed by the Department of Fine Arts, the museum has three buildings, each holding a treasure trove for the history geeks. Here is a brief about some of the must-visit things at the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum:<\/p>\n

1. Extensive Gold Treasure<\/h3>\n
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Image Credit: Davidlohr Bueso for Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

As you enter the museum, you will see a huge amount of gold jewellery, votive tablets and belongings of the royal family. The royal objects made of gold are a testimony of the power and prosperity of Ayutthaya. Each item shows exquisite craftsmanship and the culture of Thailand. Some of these are as old as 500 years old. Walking through the gallery looking at the contemporary pieces and the story behind each, you will be mesmerised by Thai culture.<\/p>\n

2. Buddha Statues<\/h3>\n
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Image Credit: Supanut Arunoprayote. for Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

The main building has an ancient Buddha statue gallery with archaeological artefacts from the Dvaravati to the Ayutthaya period. These statues behold the craftsmanship and devotion to Lord Buddha. As you enter, you will see a huge stone seated statue of Lord Buddha, which adorned the Wat Phra Men in the 6th century. It is one of the rarest statues, as there are six worldwide, with five of them blessing the land of Thailand. There are multiple poses and postures of Lord Buddha\u2019s statues in distinct materials like gold, bronze, and wood, which show the influence of religion in each statue.<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Ayutthaya Temples <\/a><\/p>\n

3. Weapons<\/h3>\n
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Image Credit: Metropolitan Museum of Art. for Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

The Thai people used various weapons in the wars, such as swords, canons, etc. An exquisite gold sword, Phra Saeng Khan Chai Sri, is an imminent weapon bejewelled with quartz and gems. This gold sword is 115 cm long and double-edged with iron blades. The weapons display details to understand the visitors’ history better.<\/p>\n

4. Currency<\/h3>\n
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Image Credit: Cambodia Archive for Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

A full historical tour of the currency exhibit of Chao Sam Phraya National Museum
\nshows the evolution of coins and currency and the effect of war trade and commerce. You would witness the unique pottery and bullet coins. If you are a numismatist, then this place will surely intrigue you.<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Phuket In August<\/a><\/p>\n

5. Textile Artefacts<\/h3>\n
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Image Credit: Daderot for Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

The cultural and textile artefacts showcase vibrant hues of everyday essentials and clothing from the historic era. They are displayed in historic order, showing a regular graduation in the type of fabric, patterns, and design used. The exhibit also shows the cultural, regional, and foreign influence on textiles and designs. An array of everyday items provides a deeper insight into the life of the historic era.<\/p>\n

6. Pottery And Ceramic<\/h3>\n
\"Intricate<\/div>\n

Image Credit: Daderot for Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

Ceramic and earthenware were majorly used in the historic period. A detailed explanation of the making process of each item will leave you in awe of the unique techniques used. Each piece displays a heavy use of detailed designs and motifs, showing the artistry of Thai culture. From everyday household utensils to decorative items, each shows the effort put in by the Thai artisans.<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Thailand Zoos <\/a><\/p>\n

7. Workshops<\/h3>\n
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Image Credit: Daderot for Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

After a museum tour, you can participate in the Thai art and craft workshops if you want an engaging activity. Various activities include fabric weaving, pottery making, and creating and decorating a mini Buddha statue. The workshops are organized by skilled Thai artisans who will walk you through the process and explain the evolution of the craft. It is the perfect experience to add to your trip and take away a little creation of Thai culture.<\/p>\n

Entrance Fee<\/h3>\n
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Image Credit: Ak524 for Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

The Chao Sam Phraya National Museum is responsible for preserving and exhibiting artefacts. The extensive collection of art pieces will leave you in awe of the craftsmanship of the Ayutthaya period. The Chao Sam Phraya National Museum entrance fee follows a dual pricing policy. For locals, the entry fee is THB 30 and for foreigners (adults and children) the entry fee is THB 150. However, the efforts to preserve and maintain the museum are worth the price.<\/p>\n

\nSuggested Read:<\/strong> Thailand Monuments<\/a><\/p>\n

Timings<\/h3>\n
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Image Credit: Gary Todd for Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

Knowing the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum’s timing is important to plan your trip. The museum remains closed on all national holidays in Thailand every Monday and Tuesday. It will be open all other days of the week from 9 AM to 4 PM. While visiting the museum, respecting the culture and adhering to modest dress is important. Women are expected to wear skirts below knee length. Shorts and sleeveless tops are strictly not allowed.<\/p>\n

How To Reach<\/h3>\n
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Image Credit: Supanut Arunoprayote for Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

Chao Sam Phraya National Museum is located 80 km north of the city of Bangkok. Here are the modes of transport and the time taken by each:<\/p>\n