Thailand National Gallery

The main building of the National Gallery.

 
Facing the north end of the great Sanam Luang field, the National Gallery occupies an elegant early 1900's building that used to house the Royal Mint. It was converted by the fine arts department to house the national gallery in 1974. The permanent collections are a bit mundane, consisting of modern portraits and a few traditional paintings, but the special exhibitions can be quite interesting.

From February to June every year, the gallery's courtyard plays host to weekend 'art markets'. There are stalls by artists of every variety, and everything is on sale. This is probably the best time to visit the museum.

Hours and Admission Fee

The museum is open Wednesday to Sunday from 9:00 to 16:00. Admission is 30 Baht (0.84 USD).

Getting to the National Gallery

The National Gallery faces the Sanam Luang, at the opposite end from the Grand Palace. You can walk there from the palace, or the National Museum, which is even closer. If you're not combining a visit to one of the other sights, you can reach the gallery by taking the Chaophraya Express Boat to the Phra Arthit / Banglampoo pier. Turn right at the pier exit to walk along the river front, or use the access path to Phra Arthit Road and turn right. Using either path, turn left when you reach the Pinklao bridge. The Gallery will be on your left about two blocks down.