“Historic wooden mansion of Khun Phinetr Chin Phak House, combining Western architectural arches and delicate wood carvings, featuring a precious late Ayutthaya royal palanquin, along with cultural exhibitions and a traditional heritage market.”
Uttaradit Cultural Hall is located within the area of the Governor’s Residence compound, serving as an important cultural and historical archive of Uttaradit. It is an educational space where artifacts and antiquities reflect the city’s historical development.
The original building was the residence of Khun Phinetr Chin Phak, a tax official during the reign of King Rama V. It was designed in the style of Vimanmek Mansion and later relocated as an official government building used to receive royal guests and senior officials. Today, it serves as an important cultural learning center of the province.
The most significant artifact is the “Yaanmat” (royal palanquin), a finely carved three-tiered wooden litter measuring 73 cm in width_, 3.50 m in length, and 1.45 m in height_, crafted during the late Ayutthaya period, representing exquisite craftsmanship and extreme rarity.
According to historical records by His Royal Highness Prince Narisara Nuwattiwong, during his northern inspection journey in 1901, four such palanquins were recorded: one in Manorom District (Chainat), two at Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat (Phitsanulok), and one in Wat Tha Sao (Uttaradit), which was later moved here for public exhibition.
Inside the hall, there are also important artifacts such as early Rattanakosin wooden Buddha images, lacquered scripture cabinets, antique household items, and historical photographs reflecting Uttaradit’s past prosperity.
The building itself is a valuable example of a late-Rattanakosin wooden noble residence, blending Thai and Western architectural styles. It features hardwood structures, ventilation openings, wooden shutter windows, and extended balconies adapted to the Nan River Basin climate.
In a museological sense, it functions as a “memory archive of Uttaradit”, preserving ethnic history, river-based trade culture, and the historical relations between northern cities.
The Yaanmat palanquin is also a key representation of royal court culture and highly skilled traditional wood craftsmanship, reflecting ceremonial significance and artistic refinement of ancient Thai society.
How to Get There
- By car: Located in the city center on 8 Wa Road, near the Governor’s Residence. Easy access with surrounding parking areas.
Travel Tips
- Recommended visit time: 09:00–12:00
- Cultural market often held on Thursdays and Sundays
- Call ahead for group visits
- Be careful with the historic wooden structure
- Ideal for photography and cultural learning
Admission Fee:
- Free (donations for maintenance are welcome)
Opening Hours:
- Open only on Thursdays and Sundays, 09:00–12:00, or according to special cultural events organized by the province.