Thailand must be the only country in the world to have a museum dedicated to its royal barges, and though it's not a big collection, it's very impressive. The amazing detail and decoration of each barge reflect an extraordinary skill on the part of the barge builders, and it's a sight that is likely to live long in the memory. Perhaps the most striking is the Suphannahong, the King's personal barge, which features a delicately curved neck and intricate carvings of mythical animals, all painted in bright scarlet and gold. Located on the Thonburi side of the river, the museum is not easy to get to under your own steam, so it's best to make it part of a longboat canal tour. As it's all located under one huge roof, around half an hour should suffice for a visit.
Bangkok
Travel Guide
Bangkok› Attraction
Royal Barge Museum
80/1 Arun Amarin Road, Bangkok Noi
Our Rating
Neighborhood
On Bangkok Noi canal, just south of the Phra Pinklao Bridge
Hours
Daily 9am–5pm
Transportation
Ferry: Express boat from Phra Arthit pier (N13) to Phra Pin Klao Bridge pier (N12), plus a 10-min walk or hire a longtail boat from Tha Maharaj Pier
Phone
02/424-0004
Prices
Admission 100B (100B extra for camera, 200B for video), children 50B
Web site
Royal Bargest Museum
Map
80/1 Arun Amarin Road, Bangkok Noi BangkokNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.