Bangsai Arts and Crafts Center is a nationally significant institution dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional Thai arts and crafts. It is located along the Chao Phraya River in Bang Sai District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. The centre was established under the royal initiative of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, with the aim of promoting local occupations, generating income, improving rural livelihoods, and ensuring that Thailand’s traditional craftsmanship and wisdom are preserved for future generations.

The atmosphere within the centre is spacious, green, and serene, with well-organized grounds surrounded by large trees and scenic river views. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful environment while exploring a wide range of artistic knowledge. Various branches of traditional crafts are systematically presented, from production processes to finished works, highlighting the delicacy, refinement, and cultural value embedded in Thai craftsmanship.

The main landmark of the centre is Phra Ming Khwan Pavilion, a prominent four-storey building featuring applied Thai architecture and serving as a symbol of the Bang Sai Arts and Crafts Centre. Inside, high-quality handicrafts are exhibited, including niello ware, Yan Liphao basketry, embroidery, weaving, and wood carving. Each piece reflects the wisdom, patience, and exquisite skills of Thai artisans. The pavilion also houses exhibition and retail spaces operated by the Support Arts and Crafts International Centre of Thailand (sacit), showcasing contemporary handicrafts and community products that blend modern design with traditional Thai identity.

Another popular highlight is the Four-Region Thai Village, which recreates traditional houses from the Northern, Central, Northeastern, and Southern regions of Thailand in one area. Visitors can learn about regional differences in architecture, lifestyles, and cultural traditions, as well as watch demonstrations of traditional cooking and ancient Thai desserts. In addition, the centre offers access to various arts and crafts training workshops, where visitors can observe the actual production process carried out by arts and crafts students, providing a deeper appreciation of the value and complexity of each handcrafted item.

Bang Sai Arts and Crafts Centre is an ideal destination for families, students, and cultural travelers. Beyond gaining knowledge and inspiration, visitors can relax in large public gardens, enjoy numerous photo spots that reflect Thai cultural identity from diverse perspectives, and purchase high-quality souvenirs directly made by local artisans. All visitors are warmly invited to experience the pride of Thai craftsmanship at Bang Sai Arts and Crafts Centre, to support local artisans, and to draw creative inspiration from the invaluable cultural heritage passed down through generations.

Private Car:

• From Bangkok, take the Udon Ratthaya Expressway (Bang Pa-in-Pak Kret) and exit towards Bang Sai; follow the clear signage to the center.

Public Transport:

• Take a van from Mo Chit Bus Terminal to Bang Sai or take the Bangkok-Bang Sai bus line.

Best Time to Visit:

• Arriving early (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM) is recommended to explore the workshops and Thai village before it gets too warm.

Dress Code:

• Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring an umbrella or hat, as the center is expansive and requires walking between various sites.

Planning:

• To see live handicraft demonstrations, visiting on weekdays (Wednesday-Friday) is best as students are actively working in the training sections.

Souvenirs:

• The Chitralada Shop inside the center offers exceptionally beautiful and high-quality items, ideal for special occasion gifts.

Admission Fee

• Local visitors: (As per center’s current rates)

• Foreign visitors: (As per center’s current rates)

Opening Hours

• Open Wednesday - Sunday (Closed on Monday and Tuesday)

• 09:00 – 16:00