Built in commemoration of Bangkoks 150th anniversary celebrations in 1932, the monument is situated at the foot of Pathom Boromrachanuson or Rama I the Great Memorial Bridge on the Bangkok side. King Rama I was the first king in the Royal House of Chakri and founder of Bangkok as the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, as Thailand was formerly known. He was born in Ayutthaya, one of Thailand's former capitals, on 20 March, 1736, accessed to the throne on 6 April, 1782, and passed away 27 years later.
Open : Daily Admission : Free
The Former Palace (Phra Ratchawang Doem), Bangkok
The Former Palace (affectionately nicknamed Wang Doem) is situated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River at the mouth of Bangkok Yai Canal, next to Wat Arun (The Temple of The Dawn). Sitting on the opposite bank from Bangkok’s Grand Palace, Wang Doem represents a crucial period in the history of the Kingdom of Siam.
It was the ruling palace of the City of Thonburi, which was established by King Taksin the Great in 1768, after he recaptured Siam’s independence from Burma. Since Ayutthaya (the previous Siamese capital) had been totally razed by the Burmese invaders, King Taksin established Thonburi as his capital city instead.
Though the reign of King Taksin the Great lasted just 12 years (1770-1782), he set the Kingdom firmly back on the path to independence and national pride, having restored both the country itself and the spirit of the people. Thonburi remained the capital of Siam for 15 years, until it was decided to move across the river for reasons of strategic defense. The location of the old city of Bangkok is nestled by the Chao Phraya on three sides, making it easier to defend.
Even after the move, the Former Palace retained its crucial importance because of its ‘Wichai Prasit’ Fort. Also called ‘Wichai Yen’, this fort was built during the reign of King Narai the Great of Ayutthaya Kingdom. Wichai Prasit Fort was an essential line of defense to protect Bangkok from invaders.
Besides its administrative and military glories, the Former Palace was the place where Kings Rama III and IV of the Chakri Dynasty were born. In 1910, King Rama V donated the palace to the Royal Thai Navy School. It still serves as the headquarters of the Royal Thai Navy.
Buildings of the Former Palace: The Principal Audience Hall is a Thai-style building, its roof adorned with magnificent Naga and swan stuccos. Formerly, this was the audience hall in which visiting officials were received in state. In front of the hall is an open pillared verandah covered by a saddle roof containing a throne from which the king would grant audiences.
The Royal Residence contained the Royal Bedchamber and living quarters.
The twin buildings were built in a blend of Chinese and Thai architectural styles. At present, the big building exhibits King Taksin’s great works for the Nation, as well as paintings, utensils and maps, while the small building displays information concerning warfare, exhibited through maps and paintings.
Phrabat Somdej Phra Pinklao’s Royal Residence was built according to Western-style architecture. The upper floor was formerly the residence of King Rama IV’s younger brother, the beloved Phrabat Somdej Phra Pinklao. In fact he was so well loved that he was considered to be the 2nd King of Siam. The ground floor served as the dwellings of royal servants and court officers.
At present, the building’s upstairs exhibits Phrabat Somdej Phra Pinklao’s work, as well as serving as a library, while the downstairs displays coin and currency exhibits, exquisite nielloware, and ancient Thai pottery.
King Taksin’s Shrine and Wichai Prasit Fort are two other amazing buildings located on the palace grounds. They have both been renovated and are well-maintained.
For further information contact the Foundation for Conserving the Former Palace (Phra Ratchawang Doem), Royal Thai Navy Headquarters, tel. 0 2475 4117. Admission is 60 baht for the public and 20 baht for students. The palace is open from 8.30am – 4pm everyday, except public holidays.
Bangkok Metropolitan Local Museums, Bangkok
The Bangkok Metropolitan aims to operate local community museums for each of its 50 districts. In order to develop Bangkok into a metropolitan cultural centre, each museum contains the cultural knowledge and local wisdom of its district. These museums are peaceful little hideaways: charming as learning centres with warm community vibes standing out against the backdrop of Bangkok’s hectic bustle.
Each museum has displays on its district’s history, background, and important people, as well as the local way of life, specialties and tourist attractions. This interesting information is displayed through models and multi-media. Most of the museums are appropriately located in temple / school areas:
Suan Luang District – its museum is located at the Thai teak pavilion of Wat Tai. Samphanthawong District – at Wat Tri Mit Bangkok Noi District – Suwannaram Witthayakhom School
One highlight worth a visit is Phra Nakhon District’s museum. It is situated in a Thai house in front of Phra Nakhon District Office on Samsen Road. This elegant 2-storey house formerly belonged to nobleman Phraya Ammaretsombat. It was built around 1914 and has been well maintained in its ancient and rare beauty. The house itself is valuable heritage and worth admiring.
The museum displays the story of Phra Nakhon District, the inner town on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Covering an area of almost 1400 acres, this is the centre of the Nation’s rich culture. Moreover, many important historical attractions are located in this district, such as the Grand Palace, Rattanakosin Island, 23 temples, Muslim Mosques, and several shrines. In addition, this district is the centre of many important governmental and private organizations.
The museum house building spans an area of 240 sq m, displaying the fine craftsmanship of the district in terms of the history of Thonburi and Rattanakosin. In addition, visitors can admire the charming atmosphere of life in the palace, as well as Bangkok’s quaint old communities. Moreover, visitors will appreciate photos depicting the Phra Nakhon’s timeless ‘Venice of the East’ canal and river scenes, as well as its lively traditional events and fairs. Other exhibits include the background of the district’s renowned highlights such as the Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the National Museum, and the World’s only Loha Prasat at Wat Ratchanadda. Furthermore, the museum also provides historical information about the district’s moats, canals, walls, gates and forts. History lovers will be very satisfied.
The museum is open Tuesday – Sunday from 10am – 4pm. Admission is free. For further information, contact Bangkok’s Office of Culture, Sports and Tourism, tel. 0 2640 6423.
Banana Family Park, Bangkok
Banana Family Park A venue provides variety activites in the same compound
It is situated at 17/1 Soi Aree 1 , in the compound of Baan Aree , near BTS Station Soi Aree, Phaholyothin Road, Samsen Nai, Phayathai, Bangkok tel .02 279 7838. It's a venue for variety activities in the same compound such as Dhamma Library " Baan Aree" , Yoga, Musical School together with Spa and Fitness and also provide food shop and coffee corner, also being able to join Dhamma Lecture in the cozy atmosphere at the Prem Pri park. More information please visit www.baanaree.net In the year 2008, Art Land Project will be launched for exhibits variety pieces of Art works of both old and new generation, organized by Artery, Also there is Art Land for youth and students to perform their imagination and some creative activity. *** The Art Land Project will have official opening day on March 8, 2008, with the art exhibition " The Elephant Voice" by Supachet Phumikan .Souvenirs and Hangmade items are also available for colletors . For more details on the Art Land Project , please contact Artery at tel: 0 2630 3006 or www.arterythailand.com
Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium, Bangkok
Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium Situated in the southeastern area of Vachirabenjatas Park (Railway Park), the garden covers an area of approximately 6 rai. It comprises an activity ground, exhibition area, feed breeding room, embryo breeding room, scenic area, insectariums, butterfly garden and Lamphu tree ground. There is a cage covering an area of 1,100 square metres with a large dome of 15 metres high, built from an open framework for good ventilation. The garden area connects to Chatuchak Park and Queen Sirikit Park. It is a natural study room ideal for learning and being a source of information as well as exchange of knowledge about butterflies and insects, their life cycles and being. The garden is open daily except for Monday during 8.30 a.m.-4.30 p.m. Open : Tue - Sun and public holidays Admission : Free Tel : 0 2272 4359-60, 0 2272 4680
Situated in the southeastern area of Vachirabenjatas Park (Railway Park), the garden covers an area of approximately 6 rai. It comprises an activity ground, exhibition area, feed breeding room, embryo breeding room, scenic area, insectariums, butterfly garden and Lamphu tree ground. There is a cage covering an area of 1,100 square metres with a large dome of 15 metres high, built from an open framework for good ventilation. The garden area connects to Chatuchak Park and Queen Sirikit Park. It is a natural study room ideal for learning and being a source of information as well as exchange of knowledge about butterflies and insects, their life cycles and being. The garden is open daily except for Monday during 8.30 a.m.-4.30 p.m.
Location: on Phaholyothin Road, near Railway Park, Chatuchak. Open : Tue - Sun and public holidays Admission : Free Tel : 0 2272 4359-60, 0 2272 4680
Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Anthropo..., Bangkok
The Centre became fully functional in 1999 with the necessary buildings, human resources and modern facilities to fulfill its mission. This is divided into academics and services.
On the academic side, SAC conducts and coordinates research, builds an inventory for study and research, develops the data base and acts as an information exchange for both foreign and local institutes and organizations.
The Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Anthropology Centre has a permanent exhibition open to the public four main subjects:
H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Biographic Exhibition displays photographs and artifacts illustrating her life and works including her numerous contributions to the society and culture of Thailand.
Thai Ceramics Collections exhibits ceramics from prehistoric sites such as Ban Chiang and Ban Kao, stoneware from Northeastern Thailand, pottery from Sukhothai and Buddhist tablets from the various historical periods.
Social and Cultural Development in Thailand is the subject of another exhibition, displaying the results of research in social and cultural development. It covers the various regions in Thailand and highlights the social and cultural relationships between various ethnic groups in Thailand and other regions of Southeast Asia.
The Ethno-archaeology Exhibition presents the results of research focused on the comparison of past and present culture.
How to get there : Bus routes 79, 515 Open : Mon - Sat from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Admission : Free Contact : Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Anthropology Centre (Public Organization) 20 Boromaratchachonnani Road, Taling Chan, Bangkok 10170 Tel : 0 2880 9429 Fax : 0 2880 9332 www.sac.or.th
Museum of Thai Pharmacy, Bangkok
The museum is located on the third floor of the Pharmaceutical Association of Thailand under Royal Patronage Building at 40 Soi Santisuk, Sukhumvit 38 Road (diagonally opposite Soi Thong Lo). It was established to publicize traditional Thai medicine from past to present for later generations to learn and treasure. The exhibition is featured by various topics; namely, the Birth of Pharmacy, the Evolution of Oriental Pharmacy and Basic Wisdom, the Evolution of Western Thai Pharmacy and the Evolution of Herbs and Natural Products. The museum is open on weekdays
Open : Mon-Fri from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Advance contact in writing is required for a group visit) Admission : Free Tel : 0 2391 6243, 0 2712 1627
Gem and Jewellery Institute of Thailand, Bangkok
Located at the Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University Pathumwan, the institute was established to help develop and support the gem and jewellery industry of Thailand. It is dedicated to the collection, preservation, study and display of gems, jewellery and gemological equipment. There are also gem identification services and library.
Museum : open on Mon-Fri from 9 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. Admission : 100 baht Contact : Tel. 0 2218 5470-4 ext.24, 0 2652 5252 Website :www.git.or.th Nearby places/attractions: Siamsquare
Thai Labour Museum, Bangkok This museum is located at the former office of the State Railway of Thailand Labour Union on Nikhom.
Geological Resource Museum (Minerals and..., Bangkok
Located on the first floor of the Emerald Building next to the Department of Mineral Resources on Rama VI Road, the museum is attached to the Bureau of Geological Survey, Department of Mineral Resources, and was established in 1948. It exhibits minerals, rocks, fossils as well as ancient tools made from minerals and rocks in 3 sections: 1. Geology, featuring the Earth, plate movements, earthquakes, minerals and rocks, geological surveys, ground water and fossils; 2. Mineral Resources, displaying specimens of gemstones and precious stones, uses of minerals, mineral fuels, petroleum and minerals from abroad; 3. Special Exhibition, currently showcasing dinosaur fossils in Thailand. The museum is open on weekdays during 9 a.m.-4.30 p.m. Admission is free but advance contact in writing addressed to the Director-General of the Department of Mineral Resources is required.
Open : Mon to Fri from 8.30 a.m. - 4.30 p.m. Admission : Free Tel : 0 2202 3669, 0 2202 3670 Fax 0 2202 3754 www.dmr.go.th
King Rama IX Park, Bangkok
King Rama IX Park
Enhancing the quality of life King Rama IX Park is an expression of gratitude from the people of Bangkok to H.M. King Bumibol Adulyadej on the occasion of his 60th birthday in 1987.
The 200 acre park is Thailand's first comprehensive botanical garden, providing a relaxing environment. It has six distinct areas, each with its own specific theme.
The Garden of the Great King or Uthayan Maharaj, symbolizes the Sovereign Grace and Majesty is the first and most important area.
Area two is the botanical garden where research is conducted on varies types of flora and the knowledge gained is passed on.
The Reservoir at area three is named Traphang Keo and truly exemplifies His Majestys efforts to mitigate flooding in Bangkok as it adds to the effectiveness of the project he has proposed.
The Rommaniya Garden" in area four is an open garden with miniature reproductions of Thailand's natural heritage including mountains and other geological features.
Area five is an open field for use for entertainment and festival purposes. It is called Sanam Rasdara which means Royal Ground.
There are mixed jungle and wetlands providing habitats for fish and waterfowl in area six.
In addition to these main areas, there are also seven international miniature gardens that were created with the assistance of experts from each of the countries represented.
How to get there : Bus routes 145, 206, 207 Open : Daily 5 am. to 5 pm. Admission : 10 Baht Tel : 0 2328 1395
Museum of Imaging Technology, Bangkok
The first camera and photograph museum established in Thailand and Asia, is located at the same building as the Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University on Phaya Thai Road. Historic photographs and imaging equipment, as well as its technological evolution are collected and displayed. Modern photographic arts, techniques and printing technology are also exhibited.
Open : Mon - Fri from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Admission : 100 baht. Tel : 0 2218 5581-3 Website :www.chula.ac.th
Krungsri IMAX Theatre, Bangkok
Located on the 5th Floor Siam Paragon. The 3D IMAX Theatre experience is teh world's most powerful and involving film experience. With breathtaking images up to seven stories igh and wrap-around 12,000 watt digital sounds, IMAX technology takes you to places only imagine.
Art Exhibition: Thailand Creative & Desi..., Bangkok
Located in an upmarket shopping mall, The Emporium's TCDC is Thailnd's premier design and exhibition center.The permanent exhibition includes "What is designω" which introduces visitors to the history of design and design concepts from the world that have been influenced by several cultural backgrounds such as that of France, Italy, United Kingdom, Japan and the United States.
There is also large library with thousands of art and design oriented books from around the world, a good-sized conference room and a performance platform where jazz musicians often give concerts.
TCDC offers world-class design and creativity resources for all visitors, both Thai and foreign.
Open : every day of the week (except Monday), from 10.30 a.m. - 9.00 p.m. Tel : 0 2664 8448 Website :www.tcdc.or.th
Thai Life Permanent Exhibition Hall, Bangkok
The Thai Life Exhibition Hall, located at the Thailand Cultural Center, takes you through the different periods of life in Thailand and how the Thai people have struggled and overcame difficulties to remain an independent.
The exhibition is divided into four main sections and uses a combination of presentation techniques including computer generated images, photography, multi-image slide presentations and puppets.
A video wall with nine screens welcomes visitors as they enter starts the presentation on the history of the Thai people.
This is divided into four areas covering the history of Thai culture, important archeological sites in Thailand, world civilization and the origins of the Thais.
The second sector takes you through Thai settlements concentrating on different cultures, languages and religions presented in the media of puppets and aerial photographs of ancient sites in four regions of the country.
Influences of outside civilization comes in the third section. Some highlights are those of Chinese and Indian traders and the impact they had in social intercourse.
The fourth area takes you through the development of Thailand as a nation from the establishment of The Kingdom of Siam at Sukhothai, the rise and fall of Ayutthaya, the Thonburi period leading on to the present Rattanakosin era under the Chakri Dynasty.
The Thai Life Exhibition Hall is a valuable source of information for all those who want to know more about Thailand and its people.
How to get there : taking subway to Thai Cultural Centre MRT Station. or Bus routes 36, 73, 122, 136, 137, 179, 185, 206, 514, 517 Open : Mon. - Sat. from 9.30 am. - 4 pm. Admission : Free Contact : Tel. 0 2247 0028 ext. 4224, 4206-7 Website :www.culture.go.th/once/thainithat
The Press Museum, Bangkok
Located in the same building as the Press Association of Thailand on Ratchasima Road, Dusit district (opposite Suan Dusit Rajabhat University), this is the first museum to have been established to enhance press occupation and be a source of study and information as well as valuable historical data about the Thai press from past to present. The exhibition is displayed through modern information technology. The first portion presents the press in the past by imitating the working atmosphere of reporters represented by wax models. Next are the political, economic as well as social roles of the press and biographies of outstanding personalities such as Dr. Bradley, Prince Narathipphongpraphan, M.R. Kukrit Pramoj, Kularb Saipradit, Malai Choopinij and Isra Amantakul. There are also images of King Rama IV founder of Thailand's publishing business established to publish declarations and royal gazettes, the first newspaper for Thai people and King Rama VI a press king who granted freedom for newspaper publication. The museum features an exhibition on newspapers and magazines and provides a library service, as well.
Open : Mon. - Fri. from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Advance contact is required) Admission : Free Tel : 0 2669 7124 6 Fax : 0 2241 5929 Website :www.thaipressasso.com
National Memorial, Bangkok
It is located on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road slightly beyond Bangkok International Airport. Covering an area of 38 rai, the National Memorial is under the responsibility of the Armed Force Education Department, Supreme Command Headquarters. There are wall paintings depicting historic events in Thai history from the Sukhothai period to Rattanakosin period, replicas of royal decorations, bas-reliefs of the establishment of the city and models recounting historic battles in Thai history.
Open : Mon. - Fri. from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Admission : Free Tel : 0 2532 1021.
A speaker is available for a group visit but advance contact in writing is required.
Muangthai Rachadalai Theatre, Bangkok
The first boardway theatre in Thailand containing 1,502 seats is located on the 4th floor, Esplanade Shopping Centre, Ratchadapisek Road, Din Daeng. For more information go to www.rachadalai.com To get there, take subway to Thailand Cultural Center Station and exit at Gate 3.
Built in commemoration of Bangkoks 150th anniversary celebrations in 1932, the monument is situated at the foot of Pathom Boromrachanuson or Rama I the Great Memorial Bridge on the Bangkok side. King Rama I was the first king in the Royal House of Chakri and founder of Bangkok as the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, as Thailand was formerly known. He was born in Ayutthaya, one of Thailand's former capitals, on 20 March, 1736, accessed to the throne on 6 April, 1782, and passed away 27 years later.
Enhancing the quality of life King Rama IX Park is an expression of gratitude from the people of Bangkok to H.M. King Bumibol Adulyadej on the occasion of his 60th birthday in 1987. 
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