Nan National Museum

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About Nan National Museum

The Nan National Museum, located in the heart of old Nan, is a treasure trove of history and culture. This beautiful building, once the residence of the former lords of Nan, is nestled in stunning surroundings and houses a wealth of interesting artefacts. The museum is a testament to the rich history of Nan, offering a glimpse into the lives of its inhabitants, rulers, and the evolution of the city through old photos and ancient artifacts.

The museum is housed in a 120-year-old stylish building, known as Hor Kham. This building, which was once a residence of the former lords of Nan, was later transformed into Nan's first city hall after the last lord of Nan passed away. Today, it stands as a national museum, offering a wealth of information about the city's past. The entrance fee is 20 baht for Thai citizens and 100 baht for foreigners.

The museum is spread over two floors and presents a plethora of interesting information about Nan. Highlights of the museum include the Monument of Phrachao Suriyaphong Pharitdet, a statue of Nan's penultimate lord who created Hor Kham, which stands out in front of the building. The Frangipani Tree Tunnel is a signature spot for photography enthusiasts. The museum also houses Wat Noi, considered the smallest temple in the world, with dimensions of 1.98 m in width, 2.34 m in length, and 3.35 m in height. The temple also houses a small Buddha statue at its centre.

One of the most intriguing exhibits in the museum is the Black Ivory. This 18 kg dark brown ivory has been passed down through many generations of Nan lords and is now considered a national treasure. The nearly 100-year-old colorful garuda model that carries the ivory was carved out of a single teak wood.

The museum is located in a large area, surrounded by beautiful and well-maintained gardens. It was once the home of the Lords of Nan, and after the last Lord passed away in 1931, his family donated the house and all the property to the country. Since then, the Fine Arts Department, along with the Princess, decided to dedicate this beautiful place to Nan's history and culture.

The museum houses a great collection of Lanna Art, Nan Art, Sukhothai Art, Siam Art, and a mix of these with other styles from Burma and Laos that influenced the local art, making it rich and prosperous. The museum also tells the story of the handmade Buddha statues from centuries ago until today.

The Nan National Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Thai history and the small kingdom's lifestyle. It offers a glimpse into the life during ancient times and the lifestyles of the local hill tribe people. Across the street, visitors can meet a princess and see the home she lives in. Nan is a quaint little Thai town, and the museum is a testament to its rich history and culture.

In conclusion, the Nan National Museum is a small but interesting place that offers a worthwhile look into the local history. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or just a curious traveler, this museum is sure to enrich your understanding of Nan and its people.