Nan National Museum

History & Significance

The Nan National Museum is housed in a historic building originally known as "Ho Kham," which served as the palace of Phra Chao Suriyaphong Pharitdet, the ruler of Nan. Built in a style that blends European architecture with local Nan craftsmanship—a trend that became popular during the reign of King Rama V—the palace was passed down through generations. After the passing of Chao Maha Phrom Surathada, the last ruler of Nan, his descendants donated the palace and its surrounding land to the government. The Fine Arts Department took over the building in 1974 to establish the museum, which officially opened in 1985 to preserve and showcase Nan's historical and archaeological heritage.

Highlights & What to See

The museum is designed to utilize natural light, with windows surrounding the building to create an airy, welcoming atmosphere that feels more like a grand home than a traditional museum. It is divided into two floors:

• First Floor: Displays exhibits on the lifestyles, traditions, and festivals of various ethnic groups in Nan Province, such as the "Sueb Chata" (life-prolonging ritual) and traditional boat racing.
• Second Floor: Houses ancient artifacts ranging from prehistoric times to the era of Nan's rulers. The most famous exhibit is the Black Ivory, a sacred object of Nan. This left-side tusk measures 94 cm in length, 47 cm in circumference at its widest part, and weighs 18 kg, acquired during the reign of Phraya Kan Mueang, the 5th ruler of Nan. Other highlights include 21st Buddhist century glazed ceramics from the Bo Suak kiln, a Lanna-style Buddha image in the Mara Vichaya posture showing Burmese influence from the 25th Buddhist century, and an enameled silver betel nut tray (Phan Phra Sri) belonging to the last ruler of Nan.
• Frangipani Arch: Located in front of the museum, this parallel row of frangipani (Leelawadee) trees arches over the walkway to form a beautiful natural tunnel. It is a highly popular photo spot, blooming with lush green leaves and flowers in the rainy season, and turning into artistic bare branches during the winter.

Visitor Information

The Nan National Museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday, from 09:00 to 16:00 (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays). Admission fees are 20 THB for Thai citizens and 120 THB for foreign visitors. Facilities include parking and restrooms.

How to Get There

The museum is located on Phakong Road, Nai Wiang Subdistrict, Mueang Nan District, Nan Province. It is situated directly opposite Wat Phra That Chang Kham Worawihan and is within walking distance of the famous Wat Phumin.