Chiang Mai Tribal Museum
Deepen your understanding of northern Thailand’s diverse hill tribe cultures at the Highland People Discovery Museum, formerly Chiang Mai Tribal Museum. The ethnographic exhibition showcases the costumes and tools of the region’s nine hill tribe groups. Outside among the tropical gardens, you’ll also find examples of traditional dwellings.
The basics
Housed in a modern three-story building in Ratchmankla Park, Highland People Discovery Museum is a great place to visit before you head to the mountains and visit the hills yourself. The most famous of the tribes explored here is the Karen tribe, who are notable for the metal rings worn to stretch their necks as a symbol of power. As well as displaying art and artefacts, the museum hosts daily slide shows that explore each tribe in more depth.
Things to know before you go
*Precede your visit to the Chiang Mai’s tribal villages with a stop at Highland People Discovery Museum (Chiang Mai Tribal Museum). *You can observe local artisans making wooden pieces and other crafts, which are available to buy as souvenirs. *Admission to the museum is free; donations are welcome.
How to get there
Chiang Mai Tribal Museum is located in the northern outskirts of Chiang Mai off Chotana Road near Rajamangala Park (King Rama IX Park). From the center of the Old Town, the museum is a 20-minute drive. No public transport services the area, so you'll need to arrange your own transportation.
Trip ideas
When to get there
Chiang Mai Tribal Museum is open Monday-Friday from morning until late afternoon—it closes for around an hour at lunchtime. Throughout the year, the museum celebrates a variety of tribal festivals; check the website for more details.
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- Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
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- Elephant Nature Park
- Mae Ping River
- Thapae Stadium
- Araksa Tea Plantation
- Saturday and Sunday Walking Street Market
- Wat Chedi Luang
- Warorot Market
- Baan Chang Elephant Park
- Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre
- Three Kings Monument (Anusawari Sam Kasat)
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