Chaiya National Museum: Exploring Southern Thai Heritage in Surat Thani

The Bear Team 6 min read

Copy link

---

Share on X/Twitter

Share on Facebook

Share on LinkedIn

Share via Whatsapp

A typical visitor to Thailand may have spent just a few hours in Surat Thani. As a transit hub to the Thai islands on the east coast, many travelers arrive and depart on the same day, often missing the country's hidden gems. However, we recommend exploring Surat Thani, as you'll discover delicious Thai cuisine, beautiful beaches, hidden waterfalls, and unique attractions that few have heard of.

Today, we'd like to introduce a distinctive attraction in Surat Thani: the Chaiya National Museum. Situated at Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya in Tambon Wiang, the Chaiya National Museum is a renowned museum focusing on ancient and archaeological artifacts in Surat Thani. It is known for its extensive collection of genuine items, including prehistoric and historical artifacts, local handicrafts, and shadow puppets.

If you're planning a trip to Surat Thani, don't miss the opportunity to explore this fascinating cultural destination.

 Fun Fact!

If you are looking for big deals while traveling to Surat Thani, you can plan your trip during spring.

Surat Thani's Most Renowned Historical Museum

The Chaiya National Museum is at Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya in Tambon Wiang, Amphoe Chaiya, Surat Thani. It is a prominent historical and archaeological museum in the region, renowned for its collection of prehistoric and historical artifacts, local handicrafts, and a shadow puppet.

The museum comprises two main buildings:

• The first building showcases stone and bronze statues from the ancient city of Chaiya, including deities like Vishnu and Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara.
  
  
• The Chaiya National Museum's second building houses prehistoric artifacts from Dvaravati, Srivijaya, Lop Buri, Sukhothai, and Ayutthaya. This museum section also features art objects and various crafts alongside these relics.

What sets the Chaiya National Museum apart is its focus on the era when Chaiya served as a trading hub on the route between India and Southeast Asia.

The museum's visiting hours are from Wednesday to Saturday, between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. The entrance fee is 20 THB for Thai citizens and 100 THB for foreigners.

 Trivia

After a visit to the Chaiya National Museum, if you need to explore the glamour of other tourist places, the well-known Phra Borommathat Chaiya is located next to it. You can similarly go to another outstanding destination, Suan Mokkh Aphalara M.       

Unveiling the Rich History of Surat Thani

The museum, originally named the "Surat Thani National Museum," was founded in 1935 by Phra Kru Sophon Jitsikaram, the Chaiya Ecclesiastical District Officer. He was responsible for safeguarding and collecting various artworks and artifacts from the temple, local authorities, and the royal courtyard. This led to the Fine Arts Department officially recognizing the establishment as a "small museum."

1950, under the leadership of Buddhadasa Bhikkhu, the director of Chaiya National Museum, construction of a new museum building commenced. The funding for this project was derived from the proceeds of book sales entitled "The archaeological site around Ban Don Bay." The building was designed using traditional Thai architecture and was completed in 1952.

Subsequently, in 1956, a second museum building was constructed on the north side, featuring a larger footprint. This expansion was made possible through an annual budget allocation from the Fine Arts Department and a government appropriation sponsored by Pol. Maj. Phat Nilwattananon, a member of the House of Representatives in Surat Thani.

The new building, known as "Sala Nilwattanaon," was established when the temple required modernization. Consequently, all the sculptures and monuments were relocated from the temple premises and exhibited in the newly constructed building.

Exploring the Museum's Nearby Sightseeing Spots 

Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya Ratchaworawihan

The Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya Ratchaworawihan is a Buddhist temple renowned for its ancient relics and religious significance. It's within walking distance of the Chaiya National Museum, making it an ideal destination for a day filled with history and local culture.

Oyster Farm

Visit the oyster farms in Surat Thani, and you'll discover a new meaning of 'fresh.' Kratae and Than Thong canals host thriving oyster farms lovingly tended by locals. If interested, you might arrange tours and have insightful conversations with the farm owners.

RockFish Museum

The RockFish Museum proudly displays stone carvings and sculptures depicting marine life found in Thailand. Established in 1992 by a fisherman, this museum is a must-visit for zoologists and marine life enthusiasts, offering unique insights into the aquatic world.

Namtok Vibhavadi

Namtok Vibhavadi is a picturesque waterfall and a popular weekend getaway. This waterfall is conveniently located on the way to the Donsak Ferry airport, and you can reach it by taking direct buses. Some other bus routes also include stops at this beautiful natural attraction.

Monkey Training College

A fascinating stop near the Donsak ferry terminal is the Monkey Training College, where monkeys are trained to become skilled coconut collectors. Run by a Thai-Canadian couple, this facility ensures the monkeys' well-being and employs a reward-based training system devoid of cruelty.

Khanom

Khanom, situated in southern Thailand, is a tranquil beach town in the Nakhon Si Thammarat Province district. It boasts incredible natural wonders, with its backdrop against the Gulf of Thailand making it a hidden gem. Enjoy various activities, including swimming in the crystal-clear waters, sunbathing on the pristine beaches, and exploring mystical caves.

Why Visit the Chaiya National Museum IN Surat Thani? 

The rich history of Surat Thani is beautifully unveiled at the Chaiya National Museum. This museum, located in Thailand's most prominent southern province, is a treasure of historical artifacts and handicrafts that narrate the region's fascinating past. What sets this museum apart is its vast and extensive collection, predominantly from when Chaiya was a pivotal stopover on the ancient trade route connecting India and Southeast Asia.

Though it may appear modest initially, the Chaiya National Museum accommodates two substantial buildings. The first building proudly showcases a remarkable array of art from bygone eras, featuring stone and bronze sculptures that once graced the ancient city of Chaiya. Notable among these sculptures are depictions of the God Vishnu and Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara.

The second building, known as the last one, is a treasure trove of various artifacts from prehistoric times to significant historical periods, including Dvaravati, Srivijaya, Lop Buri, Sukhothai, and Ayutthaya. In addition to these historical relics, this museum section also houses an impressive collection of art objects and various noteworthy works, shedding light on the region's rich heritage.

How to Visit the Chaiya National Museum IN Surat Thani?

 Did you know?

The Museum has a broad collection of various artifacts dating back to prehistoric times.

Maps & More Information 

Chaiya National Museum is in Tambon Wiang, opposite Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya Ratchaworawihan. This is a national museum in the classification of History and archaeology. It is responsible for the protection of antiques and objects of art, which are the property of the state, and to empower public relations services. So it is a must-visit during your Thailand culture exploration.