In reality, Thai art is full of diversity. Aside from the Buddhist art we’re familiar with, Thailand has a budding contemporary art scene and themed art spaces have been sprouting in recent years, especially in Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

However, there are lots of other art spaces scattered around Thailand. They offer local insights into Thai art scene. Plus many are close to Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Come get inspired at these hidden art destinations in Thailand.

9 Hidden Art Museums and Art Galleries in Thailand

1. Woodland Muangmai in Nakhon Pathom, Central Thailand

One of Bangkok’s neighbors, Nakhon Pathom is as artistic as the City of Angels, but in its own ways. At Woodland Muangmai, you can admire various styles of Southeast Asian arts in one place. Each piece of Indonesian, Burmese, Cambodian and Thai arts there is exquisitely carved. There are over 1,000 nature-, religion- and myth-inspired carvings. You can spend hours appreciating the woodcarvers’ skills and dedication.

After wrapping up your journey into the world of wood carving, visit the solemn wooden church. Woodland Muangmai is also a resort, but if you don’t want to stay overnight, you’re welcome to enjoy the restaurant and souvenir shop on the property.       

2. Owl Art Museum in Nakhon Pathom, Central Thailand

Owl Art Museum is the first of its kind in Thailand. Don’t think of it as just a small museum. With over 1,000 owl-themed art pieces on exhibit, we assure you it’s a wise idea to add Owl Art Museum to your Nakhon Pathom itinerary. There’s also a souvenir shop if you want to take these cute owls home or you can join an art class to make your own owl.

3. Thai Human Imagery Museum in Nakhon Pathom, Northern Thailand

Long before Madame Tussauds came to Bangkok, Thailand already has a similar museum in Nakhon Pathom. Thai Human Imagery Museum houses a large collection of impressively life-like fiberglass sculptures. The models are some of the most important figures in Thai history, such as the highly revered monks and the Chakri Dynasty kings. What’s more, the museum also showcases traditional Thai culture through fiberglass figures as well as fictional characters from classic Thai literature.  

4. Tao Hong Tai d : Kunst in Ratchaburi, Central Thailand

Just a couple of hours from Bangkok is Tao Hong Tai : d Kunst. An artistic cooperation between Tao Hong Tai (Ratchaburi-native ceramics company) and local artists, it’s Ratchaburi’s first-ever contemporary art gallery. The gallery is housed inside a century-old wooden Thai house and features not only contemporary art exhibitions but also an art library and a hip café.

Tao Hong Tai also has another art project, which is in its own factory. The area around Tao Hong Tai Ceramics Factory is turned into a green space dotted with colorful installation art pieces. All made from Tao Hong Tai ceramics, of course. You can tour the factory as well and watch the workers handcraft each piece with your own eyes.

Discover other things to do in Ratchaburi, Thailand.

5. Wat Khanon Nang Yai Museum in Ratchaburi, Central Thailand

Nang Yai or large shadow play fuses many branches of arts and UNESCO-honored Wat Khanon Nang Yai is a must-see when you’re in Ratchaburi. Artisans meticulously carve buffalo hide into life-size puppets and the story unfolds through traditional Thai music and entertaining chants.

Wat Khanon has over 300 well-preserved Nang Yai puppets and the Nang Yai Museum is right on the temple grounds. Every Saturday from 10am-11am, the puppets come to life in Nang Yai shadow play performed by Wat Khanon School students.

Discover other things to do in Ratchaburi, Thailand

6. Black House (Baan Dam Museum) in Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand

Born in Chiang Rai, late national artist Thawan Duchanee left many marks in Thai art scene. One of his most impressive (and eerie) works is Black House, which was also his home and studio. The complex consists of 40 Northern Thai temple-like buildings, each one adorned with animal remains that the modern Buddhist artist collected. Black House isn’t just about its dark color scheme but also the dark yet true concepts. Skins, skulls, horns, bones and other animal parts represent the inevitable end that everyone must face and can be interpreted in many more ways.     

7. White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) in Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand

Like Yin and Yang, White Temple is the opposite of Black House, but the temple has its own amazing history. Wat Rong Khun was once an old, deteriorated temple until national artist and Chiang Rai native Chalermchai Kositpipat renovated it in an entirely new style. Apart from its heavenlike all-white exterior and intricate carvings, the artist mixes in pop culture in the White Temple design.

The temple itself is already in and of itself a Buddhist art exhibition, but don’t forget to visit Chalermchai Kositpipat’s art gallery in the temple complex. The gallery houses a large collection of the national artist’s paintings.

8. Nan Riverside Arts Space in Nan, Northern Thailand

Formerly called Nan Riverside Art Gallery or Rim Nan Art Gallery, this is one of Thailand’s best local art collections. Founded by a nationally famous artist from Nan, Winai Prabripoo, the gallery building houses paintings and mixed media by local artists while the relaxing garden on the banks of the Nan River displays sculptures. Nan Riverside Arts Space proves that Nan is a place to be for not only traditional art lovers but also contemporary art enthusiasts.

Discover other things to do in Nan, Thailand.

9. Suchart Subsin’s Nang Talung Museum in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Southern Thailand

Nang Talung or small shadow puppets are carved from cow skins and this ancient cultural performance originated in Southern Thailand. Nang Talung puppets can be as small as 15 centimeters in length and require meticulous attention to details. Late national artist Suchart Subsin was one of Thailand’s greatest Nang Talung craftsmen and puppeteers. He had brought Nang Talung to international level and even though he passed on, his family and apprentices are working hard to keep the heritage alive.

At Suchart Subsin’s Nang Talung Museum, you can admire the Nang Talung puppets and also watch them in action. Nang Talung puppets are available as souvenirs.

Welcome to Amazing Thailand – Open to the New Shades. This is your ultimate Thailand travel guide, off-the-beaten-track edition. Go local and explore Thailand through new perspectives. Open your heart and mind… to the shades of Thailand that you never knew exist!

The post Hidden Art Museums and Art Galleries in Thailand appeared first on Amazing Thailand.

Ratchaburi, Central Thailand

“Ratchaburi… Where?” That’s probably going to be many travelers’ immediate response once they hear the name. The quaint western city is actually home to one of the world’s most famous floating markets, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.

The charmingly heavy canal traffic at Damnoen Saduak Floating Market has graced countless tourism ads, postcards and Instagram feeds and unfortunately, the tourist traffic seems to only concentrate there. More than the floating market, the city has everything from nature to culture, especially arts and crafts. Also dubbed “Art Chaburi”, the art scene in Ratchaburi is rising and whether you’re a fan of the traditional or the pop, you’ll find what you love there.

So don’t just visit Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and get back to Bangkok right after. Make time to explore the other areas in the city and you won’t regret it. Check out these things to do in Ratchaburi, Thailand and enjoy authentic Thai experiences before the rest of the world catches on.

Top 14 Things to Do in Ratchaburi, Thailand

1. Stroll around the ceramic jungle at Tao Hong Tai Ceramics Factory

Visiting a factory may not sound like a fun idea for everyone, but Tao Hong Tai Ceramics Factory is far from boring. Tao Hong Tai has grown from a family water jar business into one of Thailand’s most prominent ceramics manufacturers and now it has been over 60 years. The area around the factory is turned into a green space dotted with colorful installation art pieces. All made from Tao Hong Tai ceramics, of course. You can also tour the factory and watch the workers handcraft each piece with your own eyes.

2. Enjoy history with a side of arts

As one of Thailand’s ancient cities, Ratchaburi has a long history and you can learn it all inside Ratchaburi National Museum (English available). The museum building was formerly the town hall building, now beautifully painted in pink.

Right next to Ratchaburi National Museum is Tao Hong Tai : d Kunst, the city’s first-ever contemporary art gallery. Housed inside a century-old wooden Thai house, the gallery features not only contemporary art exhibitions but also an art library and a hip café. Love street arts or cats or both? CAT Town, the art alley next to Tao Hong Tai : d Kunst, is calling you.

3. Adventure and unwind at Khao Ngu Stone Park

Reborn from an abandoned limestone quarry, Khao Ngu Stone Park is a beautiful recreational area with towering limestone mountains, caves filled with historic Buddhist artworks and a large lake. Enjoy adrenaline-pumping activities like rock climbing and flying fox or you can simply walk around the park and meet the monkeys.

You can visit Khao Ngu Stone Park anytime, but it’s a great spot to watch the sunset.

4. Explore the worlds of stalactites and stalagmites

We’ve already seen handmade arts. Now is the time for arts by Mother Nature. The best caves in the city are Khao Bin Cave and Chompol Cave.

1) Khao Bin Cave

The city's most beautiful cave. Boasting gorgeous collections of stalactites and stalagmites, Khao Bin Cave is also colorfully illuminated. The cave is divided into 8 rooms and each room is believed to offer visitors different blessings.

2) Chompol Cave

The charms of Chompol Cave lie in not only its stalactites and stalagmites but also the beam of light that shines down on the Buddha image inside. Visit at around 1pm-2.30pm for this enchanting phenomenon.

5. Watch the shadows come alive in Wat Khanon Nang Yai

Nang Yai or large shadow play fuses many branches of arts and UNESCO-honored Wat Khanon Nang Yai is a must-see. Artisans meticulously carve buffalo hide into life-size puppets and the story unfolds through traditional Thai music and entertaining chants.

Wat Khanon has over 300 well-preserved Nang Yai puppets and the Nang Yai Museum is right on the temple grounds. Every Saturday from 10am-11am, the puppets come to life in Nang Yai shadow play performed by Wat Khanon School students.

6. Step back into time in Photharam

If you’re a fan of old-world charms, Photharam is for you. The community has rows of photogenic wooden houses and the 100-year-old Jed Samian Market has parades of traditional Thai food and drink and retro stuff. Photharam also has some beautiful temples:

1) Wat Kongkaram

This Mon-style temple has elaborate 200-year-old murals by Mon artists as well as a local museum (weekends and holidays only) that displays ancient artifacts found in the area.

2) Wat Phra Sri Arn

The golden ordination hall is very impressive and so is its interior. The temple is also famous for traditional Thai kites.

7. Unleash your inner child at Suntree Land of Dolls

Thailand’s only doll-centric theme park, Suntree Land of Dolls is a grand project of a doll factory owner. Take pictures with giant dolls, especially teddy bears, in various themed zones. Cuddling is more than welcome. You can buy Suntree dolls or even make your own.

8. Batwatch at Wat Khao Chong Pran

Thanks to the temple location near limestone mountains and caves, the temple is one of the best places in Thailand for batwatching. The flights of million bats start at around 6pm.

9. Chase the sheep at The Scenery Vintage Farm

The Scenery Vintage Farm in Suan Phueng is one of the best escape plans in Thailand. Situated in the lush valleys, the farm is full of countryside-style attractions, especially sheep. You can feed these fluffy cuties and taste the delicious sheep dairy products like ice cream and cookies.

10. Relax at Bo Khlueng Hot Spring and Kao Chan Waterfall

Treat your skin to the mineral water from Tanao Sri Mountain Range. Nearby Bo Khlueng Hot Spring is the beautiful 9-tiered Kao Chan Waterfall (also called Kao Chon Waterfall).

11. Light up the romance at Baan Hom Tian

Enjoy the sights and scents of colorful fragrant candles. Apart from handcrafted candles, Baan Hom Tian is decorated with vintage furniture and antique lamps, complete with lovely restaurant and café. All these aesthetics are so romantic.

12. See the sea of mist on Khao Krajom

It’s hard to believe there’s a sea of mist that’s only about 3 hours away from Bangkok, but this is the reality. Marking the end of Thailand territory, Khao Krajom is the tallest mountain in Suan Phueng. It’s a proof that viewing the sea of mist above verdant forests is possible during your weekend getaway.

13. Take a Thai-style dragon jar home

Remember those big brown water jars painted with dragon that you see around Thailand? The birthplace of dragon jars is none other than Ratchaburi. They come in many sizes, so you can buy a tiny one if you still have a long way to go on your Thailand trip.

14. Explore the hidden sides of Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market needs no introduction, but there are still a lot of things few people know about this market. Eating, shopping and snapping photos of the paddle boats aside, hop on one of the boats to learn how locals make coconut sugar.

At the end of Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is Lau Tak Lak Floating Market (weekends only). Just cross the bridge and you’ll be in a completely different world. All the buzz disappears and there’s only peace in this century-old Thai-Chinese market.

That’s it for things to do in Ratchaburi, Thailand, but that’s not all you can do on your journey. Pair your visit to Ratchaburi with a trip to its charming neighbor, Suphan Buri. Find out things to do in Suphan Buri, Thailand.

Welcome to Amazing Thailand – Open to the New Shades. This is your ultimate Thailand travel guide, off-the-beaten-track edition. Go local and explore Thailand through new perspectives. Open your heart and mind… to the shades of Thailand that you never knew exist!

The post Top Things to Do in Ratchaburi, Thailand: Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Vibrant Ceramic Jungle and Hot Spring appeared first on Amazing Thailand.

Doi Inthanon, Thailand's highest peak located in Chiang Mai is hands down the most popular destination for international mist hunters and sunrise chasers. However, there are actually many other cities to enjoy the sea of mist in Thailand. These top spots also offer other unique experiences.

There’s no more enchanting way to start your morning than this, so you can’t miss it. Here are the best places to view the sea of mist in Thailand.

16 Best Places to View the Sea of Mist in Thailand (Other than Chiang Mai)

1. Khao Krajom in Ratchaburi, Central Thailand

It’s hard to believe there’s a sea of mist that’s only about 3 hours away from Bangkok, but this is the reality. Marking the end of Thailand, Khao Krajom is the tallest mountain in Suan Phueng, a locals’ favorite nature retreat in Ratchaburi. It’s a proof that viewing the sea of mist above verdant forests is possible during your weekend getaway.

Discover other things to do in Ratchaburi, Thailand.

2. Thung Salaeng Luang National Park in Phetchabun, Northern Thailand

Savannah landscape right in Thailand! Dotted with pine trees and flowers that bloom from October to December, Thung Salaeng Luang National Park is in and of itself a stunning savannah, complete with wildlife. Simply drive to Sala Dusita viewpoint for the scene of mist shrouding the forest below. This is the best option for the elderly and people with mobility impairment.

And when the sun is completely above the horizon, stroll in the pine forest and marvel at the golden sunlight shining through.

3. Phu Tub Berk in Phetchabun, Northern Thailand

At Phu Tub Berk, the sea of mist is served with cabbages. The largest field of cabbages in Thailand, might we add. Traveling in the rainy season is normally not very ideal, but it’s another story in Phu Tub Berk. It’s the best time to enjoy the greenery there.

4. Khao Kho in Phetchabun, Northern Thailand

You can’t visit Phu Tub Berk without including Khao Kho in your itinerary. Of course, you get to view one of the most beautiful seas of mist and clouds in Thailand, but there are a lot of more highlights.

Wat Pha Sorn Kaew, one of the most unique temples in Thailand, is there with Buddha images that will make you wonder if you’re hallucinating, as well as colorful mosaic that will show you how Antoni Gaudí can mix with Buddhist arts. In the colder months, Khao Kho is also abloom with colorful flowers.

5. Nam Nao National Park in Phetchabun, Northern Thailand

We’re still in Phetchabun because it’s such a wonderful hidden gem. If you haven’t had enough views of picturesque seas of mist, go to Nam Nao National Park. It’s a huge national park of unspoiled forests, waterfalls, caves and wildlife. If you love bat- and birdwatching, you’ve come to the right place.

6. Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park in Phitsanulok, Northern Thailand

Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park is packed with unique landscapes, but Lan Hin Pum has to be the most unique among them all. Situated on a mountain, Lan Hin Pum is a rock plain dotted with lumpy stones formed by erosion. Add in the view of morning mist that you can see from Lan Hin Pum and it’s going to be even more unforgettable.

In addition to mountains, forests and waterfalls, Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park is steeped in history as it was the headquarters of the Communist Party of Thailand (CPT) in the 20th century. You can find the buildings from the era as well as the museum in the national park area.

7. Doi Hua Mhod in Tak, Northern Thailand

Tak, the westernmost city in Thailand, has always been known for its dense forests, towering mountains and grand waterfalls. Its remote location discourages many travelers from visiting, but it isn’t a too difficult destination and this is your chance to witness one of the rawest national parks in Thailand. Take on Doi Hua Mhod in Umphang and you’ll be rewarded with the seemingly endless sea of mist and the unique landscape of limestone mountains dotted with only shrubs and flowers.

Need more reasons to venture out to Doi Hua Mhod? You can pair it with a trip to Thi Lo Su Waterfall, the largest and most beautiful waterfall in Thailand.

8. Phu Chi Fa in Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand

Two hours away from Chiang Rai city center is Phu Chi Fa, one of the most popular spot to view the sea of mist and sunrise among Thai travelers that remains under the radar among foreign visitors. Pointing to the sky as its name says, the silhouette of Phu Chi Fa peak against the sunrise is a stunningly unique sight.

Once you catch the sunrise at over 1,600 meters above sea level, don’t leave right after. Phu Chi Fa straddles the border of Thailand and Laos, so you can see the Mekong River, forests and mountains in the other side after the mist is gone. While you can enjoy the sea of mist at Phu Chi Fa all year round, visit in December or January for wild Himalayan cherry blossoms.

9. Doi Pha Tang in Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand

Few people have been there, even Thai locals. This makes Doi Pha Tang a great destination for explorers. Apart from panoramic views of mist and clouds from Hill 101, Hill 102 and Hill 103 (the peak that rises 1,653 meters into the sky), Doi Pha Tang is unique with rock cliffs that look as if they were torn apart or Chong Pha Kad. Look through the cliff gate and when the waves of mist dissipate, you can see the Mekong River and Laotian valleys down below.

Like Phu Chi Fa, Doi Pha Tang is painted in pink from December to January with wild Himalayan cherry blossoms.

10. Yun Lai Viewpoint in Mae Hong Son, Northern Thailand

You might not know the name Mae Hong Son, but it’s actually where Pai is. Anyway, there are good reasons why Mae Hong Son is nicknamed the City of Three Mists. Among its numerous viewpoints for the sea of mist, Yun Lai Viewpoint in Pai is one of the most beloved. Treat yourself to hot Chinese tea while watching the mist roll by above the local village and fields.

11. Pang Oung in Mae Hong Son, Northern Thailand

Mist floating so close to the crystal clear lake surrounded by verdant pine trees. Black and white swans quietly swimming by. The golden light glistening off the lake surface at the break of dawn. Tranquility in the air. Everything about Pang Oung is dreamy.

12. Ban Jabo Village in Mae Hong Son, Northern Thailand

Ban Jabo, a Black Lahu hill tribe village, is a journey of nature and culture (authentic!) rolled into one. Stay overnight in one of the local homes and you won’t regret it.

But the biggest highlight of all is probably having noodles in the sky. The simple noodle shop is situated on a mountain and you can sit down on the terrace, dangling your feet. For a very cheap price, you get to enjoy a very tasty bowl of noodles and million dollar views of mist and mountains.

13. Doi Samer Dao in Nan, Northern Thailand

Camp close to the stars and then wake up to the sea of mist. At Doi Samer Dao (translating to where you can reach the stars) in Sri Nan National Park, the last thing you see before falling asleep and the first thing you see in the morning are just so beautiful.

After the sunrise, walk along the nature trail to Pha Hua Singh or Lion’s Head Cliff and enjoy the panoramic view of forests and river below.

Discover other things to do in Nan, Thailand.

14. Phu Lang Ka in Phayao, Northern Thailand

Peeking above the white fluff are giant limestone mountains. Just like islands in the sea of mist and clouds. Combining with the trees that sprinkle the vast meadow below, Phu Lang Ka looks as if it came straight out of a painting.

15. Phu Kradueng National Park in Loei, Northeastern Thailand

This is one of the most classic mountain adventures in Thailand. Thai lovers dream of conquering Phu Kradueng together, testing their patience and love as they make their way from the base to the summit. The hike takes about 4-5 hours one way. It’s also a popular place to pop the question.

Apart from the sunrise over the sea of mist and clouds at Pha Nok Aen (Swallow Cliff), Phu Kradueng has lots of other wonderful viewpoints, flora and fauna. Visit in December or January to view fiery red maple leaves, which contrast beautifully with the waterfalls and lush surrounding. Yes, we’re still in Thailand.

15. Phu Thok in Loei, Northeastern Thailand

This small mountain is only a few minutes away from Chiang Khan, a quaint village near the Mekong River where time seems to slow down. Make sure you go up there to enjoy the morning mist and the panoramic view of Chiang Khan and the Mekong River.

16. Pha Chanadai in Ubon Ratchathani, Northeastern Thailand

Be the first to see the sunrise in Thailand! People in this area welcome the new dawn before anyone else in the country. The cliff Pha Chanadai is a dramatic location that overlooks the vast sea of mist and after the mist clears up, you can see the forests and the Mekong River in the Laos.

Since Pha Chanadai is part of Pha Taem National Park, there are lots of other things to do. History buffs will love the cave paintings that date back to 3,000 years ago while nature lovers get to enjoy waterfalls, rare wildflowers and giant, weird rocks called Sao Chaliang all in one place.

Welcome to Amazing Thailand – Open to the New Shades. This is your ultimate Thailand travel guide, off-the-beaten-track edition. Go local and explore Thailand through new perspectives. Open your heart and mind… to the shades of Thailand that you never knew exist!

The post Best Places to View the Sea of Mist in Thailand (Other than Chiang Mai) appeared first on Amazing Thailand.