Chiang Saen National Museum

The Chiang Saen branch of the National Museum is located next door to Wat Phra That Chedi Luang situated on Phahonyothin Road.

The museum was established in 1957 as a center of art and archaeological objects found at Chiang Saen and its surrounding. Originally the old Sala of Wat Chedi Luang was used as the museum until 1981, when the museum was allocated a budget to complete the building as planned.

The museum contains many fine artifacts as found and excavated from around the area, including some dating from the Neolithic period. There is also a presentation of the location, history and settlements at Chiang Saen,

There are some fine displays of folk art, handicrafts and musical instruments produced by the hill tribes indigenous to the area. However, the small museum is perhaps best known for its exquisite collection of bronze Buddha images in typical Chiang Saen style (featuring oval faces and slender bodies), as well as other Lanna art objects. Many art historians believe that these particular collections are perhaps the first true 'Thai' works-of-art.

The museum is open on Wednesdays - Sundays from 9.00 am until 4.00 pm, except on national holidays.

National Museum, Chiang Saen
702 Phahonyothin Road, Chiang Saen District
Chiang Rai 57150 Thailand
Tel. +66 53 777-102, 650-723
Fax. +66 53 650-723

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