Bank of Thailand Museum

📍 Location of Bank of Thailand Museum 🚘 Directions to Bank of Thailand Museum

About Bank of Thailand Museum

The Bank of Thailand Museum, a former palace, is a hidden gem in the bustling city of Bangkok. However, it's worth noting that access to this architectural masterpiece and the adjacent Devavesm Palace can be somewhat elusive. The museum is not always open to the public, and there is no reliable website providing accurate, up-to-date information on its operating hours. This can be frustrating for those who are eager to explore the less famous, yet equally fascinating, historical sites in the capital.

Despite these challenges, the museum is a worthwhile detour from the crowded tourist spots in Bangkok. It offers a serene view of the Chaopraya river and showcases classic neo-Thai architecture. Visitors can learn about the history of the place and get a glimpse of Thai history from a century ago. However, it's important to note that tours need to be reserved in advance, and it's unclear whether they are available in English.

The museum is a wonderful surprise in the older and quieter part of Bangkok. It was tastefully designed and well executed. The architecture is outstanding, and the flow of the tour is nicely planned. The museum houses the world’s first minted coin from Lydia and does an excellent job of telling stories of Thai financial history in a fun and engaging way. The museum is located in the heart of the Learning Center, a cool idea that blends old and new in perfect balance. After the tour, visitors can relax in the coffee shop, which offers a million-dollar view of the river at a fraction of the price.

Visiting the museum requires some planning. During the week, visitors need to email in advance to make reservations as the museum also houses working offices. On Saturdays, however, no prior arrangements are needed. Visitors can simply walk up to the guard shack and they will be directed to the museum entrance. It's important to dress respectfully, with shoulders covered and no shorts. An ID is required for the visit, which they hold during your visit. The museum provides an audio guide and visitors can explore at their own pace. The museum is free, and they even offer free postcards which they will send for free once filled out and addressed. The tour is very good, covering coins from the beginning and notes right up to the present. The museum is open from 9:30 to 4:00 on Saturdays.

The museum is set in a historic building on the river, with beautifully maintained interiors and lovely gardens. It offers a great presentation of the Bank of Thailand's history and the history of money. The audio guide in English is a plus. However, the museum is only open on Saturdays, so it's important to plan accordingly.

The museum is a very entertaining place to learn about the origin of Thai money. It's much more interesting than one might expect. However, visitors are required to dress decently, with no shoes, no shorts, and no naked shoulders allowed. Despite these restrictions, it's a great place to spend an afternoon, especially if you have some time to kill.

In conclusion, the Bank of Thailand Museum is a fascinating place to visit for those interested in the monetary system of Thailand. Despite the challenges in accessing the museum, it's a worthwhile detour from the crowded tourist spots in Bangkok. It offers a serene view of the Chaopraya river, showcases classic neo-Thai architecture, and provides a glimpse into Thai history. However, it's important to plan your visit carefully, dress respectfully, and bring a photo ID.