The Khao Yai Art Museum is a welcome surprise in a region better known for forests and farms. A private collector’s passion project, it shows Thai contemporary art across large indoor galleries and an outdoor sculpture garden crowned by a golden Ganesha on a hilltop.
Overview
The museum was founded by Pongchai Chindasuk, a private art collector who wanted to share his collection with the public. Its three halls cover more than 1,700 square metres and show painting, watercolour, oil, pencil and charcoal drawing, printmaking and sculpture. Artists represented include Chalermchai Kositpipat, Lampu Kansanoh, Anupong Chantorn and Chalit Nimtim, among others.
Highlights
- A broad survey of Thai contemporary art in spacious galleries
- An outdoor sculpture garden with large-scale works
- The golden Ganesha statue on the hilltop
- A cool, quiet indoor option for hot or rainy afternoons
Visitor information
- Address: Ban Tha Chang Soi 6, Mu Si, Pak Chong, Nakhon Ratchasima
- Location: on a side road east of Thanarat Road, about 8 km north of the national park’s northern gate
- Opening hours: daily, 09:00–17:30 (as reported)
- Admission: a small entry fee, reported at around 50 baht. Entry was free for many years.
Confirm hours and fees before visiting.
Best time to visit
Any time of year. It is ideal for the middle of a hot day or a rainy afternoon. Allow one to two hours.
Getting there
Drive along Thanarat Road and follow the turn-off towards Ban Tha Chang. Because it is close to the park road, it fits easily into a day that starts or ends in the national park.
Combine with
- Ban Tha Chang Spring, in the same area
- One of Khao Yai’s design-led cafes
- An early-morning visit to Khao Yai National Park
Nearby accommodation
The museum is in Mu Si, the most convenient area for the park. See where to stay in Khao Yai and our pool villa resort guide.
Sources: InterContinental Khao Yai guide, Bangkok Post.