“Experience the prosperity of the border community in the past through a collection of ancient kris daggers and Malay brassware. Explore exhibitions portraying the Lo Jud villagers’ way of life connected to agriculture and forest resources.”
Ban Lo Jud Museum was established from the awareness of local residents in preserving the intellectual and spiritual heritage of their ancestors. It is located in Lo Jud Subdistrict, an area with a long history of travel and communication between Thailand and Malaysia. With its strategic location near the Hala-Bala forest and important rivers, this area became a meeting point of diverse local Malay cultures passed down through numerous artifacts donated and collected by villagers. The museum serves as a living archive telling the story of settlement and adaptation amid the steep tropical rainforest environment in the past.
One of the most insightful highlights of the museum is its collection of "kris," traditional daggers with distinctive local patterns. These were not only weapons but also symbols of status and Malay customs in earlier times. Inside, visitors will also find pottery and finely crafted brassware once used in wealthy households in the subdistrict, along with agricultural tools and woven items made from natural local materials reflecting the wisdom of utilizing resources from the Hala-Bala forest effectively. Beyond material artifacts, the museum connects younger generations with their roots through old photographs and exhibitions depicting orchard life and gold mining, which was once a significant occupation in this area. Visiting here is like traveling back in time to experience the pride and simplicity of the people of Waeng amid the changes of the modern world.
How to Get There
- By Private Car: From Narathiwat town, take Highway 4057 via Su-ngai Kolok District toward Waeng District, then continue to Lo Jud Subdistrict. The route runs along the border with beautiful forest scenery on both sides. The paved road provides convenient access to the Lo Jud community.
- By Public Transport: Take a van on the Narathiwat – Waeng or Su-ngai Kolok – Waeng route and get off at Waeng District. From there, continue by local transport or hired vehicle to Lo Jud Subdistrict, which is located some distance from the district center. It is recommended to arrange private transportation or book a hired vehicle in advance.
Travel Tips
- As this is a community museum, it is recommended to contact the community leader or the Lo Jud Subdistrict Administrative Organization in advance to arrange for a guide to provide in-depth information.
- Dress politely to show respect for the place and the local community.
- After visiting the museum, you can continue to the Sirindhorn Peat Swamp Forest Research and Nature Study Center or Sirindhorn Waterfall located nearby.
- The museum is open year-round, but on weekends there are often additional interesting community activities.
Admission Fee:
- No admission fee (Donations are welcome to support site maintenance).
Opening Hours:
- Open daily from 09:00 – 16:30 (Please check public holidays or important Islamic religious holidays in advance).