Chaiya National Museum was established to collect and preserve cultural heritage discovered in the Chaiya district. Many historians and archaeologists believe this area was a significant center of the Srivijaya Kingdom, which flourished from the 13th to 18th centuries AD. With a maritime network connecting the Malay Peninsula, Indonesia, and South India, Chaiya became a key strategic point for Southeast Asian civilization in the past.

Chaiya National Museum is a national museum of history and archaeology. The first building at the front displays stone and bronze sculptures found in the old city of Chaiya, including a Vishnu statue and a Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara. The second building is the main exhibition of prehistoric evidence, from the Dvaravati, Srivijaya, Lopburi, Sukhothai, and Ayutthaya periods. It also displays fine arts and various types of artifacts.

Archaeological Storytelling:
The interior displays artifacts systematically, from prehistoric stone tools to art from various historical periods, including Dvaravati, Srivijaya, Lopburi, Sukhothai, and Ayutthaya, reflecting the development of religion, beliefs, and society, as well as evidence of maritime trade connecting various civilizations.

Master Craftsmanship:
A key highlight is the bronze Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, a Srivijaya artwork that is the most beautiful and complete in Thailand, along with a red sandstone Buddha image in the Naga Prok posture, a Vishnu statue, and ancient Hindu art reflecting the diversity of beliefs in the past.

Ancient Economy and Trade:
Important evidence includes Chinese, Persian, and Indian ceramics, ancient gold artifacts, and inscriptions, confirming that Chaiya was once an international maritime trade center connecting the East and West.

Way of Life and Wisdom:
Exhibitions include Phum Riang silk weaving, Chaiya salted egg making, and local fishing methods that continue to be passed down to the present day, showing the continuity of culture from past to present.

Academic Significance:
Chaiya National Museum is an important resource for archaeologists to understand the development of Southern Thai civilization and the role of Chaiya as a center for religion, trade, and culture in Southeast Asia in ancient times.

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How to Get There

• By Car: From Surat Thani city, take Highway 41 towards Chaiya district, near Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya.

• By Train: Get off at Chaiya Station and take a taxi for about 2 kilometers.

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Travel Tips

• It is recommended to visit during the time 09:00–12:00, the weather is comfortable and not crowded.

• You should allow about 1–1.5 hours to see all zones.

• Reading the explanation signs of the artifacts will help you understand history more deeply.

• Photography is allowed in designated areas, but flash photography should be avoided.

• It is recommended to visit together with Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya to fully understand the archaeological context.

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Admission Fee:

• Thai citizens: 20 baht

• Foreigners: 100 baht

• Students/Students in uniform/Seniors: Free admission

Opening Hours:

• Open Wednesday – Sunday: 09:00 – 16:00

• Closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and public holidays