Muang Boran
At a glance: Designed in a shape of Thailand, the Ancient City is the largest outdoor museum in the country, showcasing breathtaking recreations of historical palaces, temples and ancient markets to transport visitors to different periods of Siam.
It’s divided into six zones, in which visitors can ride bicycles or the tram for a sightseeing tour. Standing in the middle of the Central Region zone, Sanphet Throne Hall with its spectacular architecture is a reminiscence of the glorious days of the Ayutthaya Kingdom.
In 1972, King Bhumibol turned it into a reception hall to welcome Queen Elizabeth II and her consort, Prince Philip. Apart from beautiful murals of the Hindu god Narayana, it boasts a private collection of old porcelain and silver and gold nielloware.
In the Northeast Region zone, a replica of Prasart Phra Wihan in Si Sa Ket province sits on the summit of a 54m artificial hill to take visitors back to the reign of King Suriyavarman I.
The North Region zone draws visitors with Wat Chong Kham and a showcase of refined Tai Yai-style craftsmanship. Featuring monk quarters and a main hall for daily rituals, this 100-year-old wooden complex was relocated from Lampang to represent the unique culture of the Tai Yai ethnic group.
The Old Market Town is designed to be a living museum, home to a barber, old-fashioned boutiques, theatres for Nang Yai shadow play and Chinese opera as well as a traditional casino.
Preventive measures:
Visitors are required to wear face masks, observe social distancing and scan the QR code for the Thai Chana platform.
Visit it: It’s open Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 7pm.
Find it: Sukhumvit Road, Bangpoomai, Samut Prakan. There is a free shuttle bus service from the Kheha BTS station. Contact: 02-323-4094—9
Browse it: muangboranmuseum.com. Tickets are 700 baht for foreigners, 400 baht for Thais and 200 baht for kids.