Rattanakosin retrospective: A multimedia exploration of Bangkok's golden era

Despite Bangkok being a city rich in history and culture, museums, regrettably, have never been our strong point. More often than not, you’ll find little more than dusty storage rooms filled with artifacts, and little in the way of engaging explainers.

Fortunately the addition of modern, tech-embracing facilities such as the Museum of Siam has been changing the game. Earlier this year Nitas Rattanakosin --  or Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall as it’s known to foreign visitors -- became the latest exception to the boring rule. It's housed in a renovated East-meets-West edifice dating back to the King Rama V era and its location in Rattanakosin Island, Bangkok’s old city, is certainly fitting given the entire exhibition space is dedicated to the grandeur of the Rattanakosin era, which lasted from 1782 to 1932. 

There are seven rooms spread out on three floors and visitors are shown around by a beaming, cheerful guide. But fret not, there are no long, tedious explanations. Branding itself “an interactive, self-learning center,” rather than a museum, Nitas Rattanakosin keeps visitors entertained with sophisticated multimedia displays and touch-screen booths. The content mainly focuses on the rich past of the Rattanakosin period, highlighting royal culture, graceful Thai architecture, traditional performances and ceremonies. 

History buffs can watch the multimedia videos, which retell the story of the inauguration of the Rattanakosin era and the city of Bangkok, while architecture enthusiasts can play with the interactive displays and get insights into the design of the celebrated royal palaces and temples, including the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). 

Another cool feature of the museum is the 360-degree multimedia presentation, featuring many traditional entertainment spectacles and performances. Just find a spot on the floor and enjoy the show, panoramic-style. You also get to watch Ramakien animation, learn khon (Thai masked dance) gestures and try your hands at maneuvering small puppets.

The whole tour lasts a few hours, and once you get your cultural fix we recommend heading to the roof for some caffeine. The glass-wrapped True Coffee on top of the building gives magnificent views of the Loha Prasart (Metal Castle) and the Golden Mount. Hungry? Coffee Beans is downstairs, offering tasty Thai meals and sinful cakes. 

Getting there

100 Ratchadamnoen Klang Road
Tel: +66 (0)2 621 0044
Open Tuesday-Friday, 11am-8pm. Saturday-Sunday, 10am-8pm
Tickets are 100 baht per person. Free for students