The Bangkok National Museum was established in 1874 around a private royal collection of artifacts. Now, it’s one of the largest museums in Southeast Asia and contains an extensive collection of objects from Asian history and culture, including paintings, sculptures, bronzes, and prehistoric art. There are three main buildings displaying permanent collections, as well as a chapel building with well-preserved murals, and areas for temporary exhibits.
The museum is near the popular Wat Phra Kaew temple and the Grand Palace, so a visit to the museum can be combined with these sights. Visitors can tour independently or join a guided tour of Bangkok that stops at the museum.