“The Underwater Archaeology Office is a place for collecting and preserving antiquities”
The Underwater Archaeology Division in Chanthaburi Province is a place that collects and preserves antiquities recovered from ancient shipwrecks submerged in the Gulf of Thailand. These artefacts include pottery such as cups, jars, pots, containers, and figurines of humans and animals, which are Thai sancai ceramics from the Srisatchanalai kilns and Mae Nam Noi kilns in Singburi Province, located in the Nern Wong Camp area. It is open for visitors every day free of charge.
Currently, the Fine Arts Department is renovating this site to establish it as the Chanthaburi National Museum, serving as a place for studying the history of society, economy, natural science, as well as the lifestyle and arts and culture of Chanthaburi, and also displaying evidence and information about the history of Thai maritime trade.
In addition to its conservation and exhibition missions, the Underwater Archaeology Division also serves an important role as a regional training centre of UNESCO in the field of underwater archaeology, demonstrating expertise at an international level and continuously organising knowledge dissemination projects, such as training volunteers to form a network for the preservation of underwater heritage. Visiting this place provides a comprehensive experience in both history and science and is an ideal location for those interested in adventure and uncovering secrets beneath the sea that have been hidden for centuries
How to Get There
-
Private Car: Travel from Chanthaburi city center (approximately 6 kilometers) along Highway 3146 (the route to Ban Tha Chalaep). The division and museum are located within the Khai Noen Wong Ancient Site and have a dedicated parking area.
-
Public Transport: Use a songthaew (local shared taxi) or a taxi/motorcycle taxi from the Chanthaburi city center.
Travel Tips
- Visiting Hours: You should check the operating days and hours, as the museum and exhibition center is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
- In-depth Learning: The site contains extensive detailed information; you should allocate at least 1-2 hours for a thorough visit to the museum
- Photography: Photography is generally permitted within the museum premises for personal use (excluding specific artifacts that may be marked with a prohibition sign).
Admission Fee:
-
Local Visitors: Adult 20 THB; Children/Students in uniform and Seniors (60+) Free of Charge.
-
Foreign Visitors: Adult 100 THB.
Opening Hours:
-
Wednesday – Sunday and public holidays, from 09:00 AM to 04:00 PM.
-
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.