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The Treasury Museum Chiang Mai
Temples & Culture
Chiang Mai

The Treasury Museum Chiang Mai

4.7(213 reviews)

Housed on Rachadamnoen Road in the heart of Chiang Mai's old city, this free museum focuses on the history of money and trade in Thailand, with particular emphasis on the Lanna people and their monetary systems. Rather than a general cultural overview, the collection takes a specific and engaging angle — tracing the evolution of currency from early trade objects through to modern Thai money — making it a genuinely distinctive stop among Chiang Mai's many cultural attractions. Visitors can expect well-designed exhibits that include old Thai currency, models, and descriptive video presentations. Interactive elements, such as coin-related games and a stamp-collecting activity, add a hands-on dimension that appeals to a range of ages. The museum also stands out for its accessibility features, including Braille panels designed to make exhibits inclusive for visually impaired visitors. Occasional workshops, such as Lanna lantern making, are hosted on-site, and staff are consistently noted for their helpfulness and warmth. Good to know: Admission is free, which makes this an easy addition to a walking tour of the old city. Opening hours are not widely published online, so it is worth confirming in advance with your accommodation or contacting the museum directly before visiting. Modest, respectful dress is advisable given the cultural setting.

Experience hints

Hidden gem
Visitor favorite

Pair your visit. After The Treasury Museum Chiang Mai, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.

Visitor Reviews

Went during the Chiang mai design week to see the museum of thai money. The museum has many varieties of old thai currency, different forms of money used etc. They also have a descriptive video presentation about the evolution of thai money. Another section has more interactive area to play around with money; i guess for students. Very kind and friendly staff. Highly recommend for anyone studying about money or for any student

Free entry. Very informative about Thailand money and monetary system as well as the history of Chiang Mai. The museum designed in such a way very inclusive towards the blinds where it provides braille and models.

Extremely good, good guide to provide the information, good place, clean, every staffs so really kind and I had joined the Lanna lantan workshop here. So great 👍Free admission too!

Visitor Information

Best time to visit

November – February

Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)

Rainy season

June – October

Avg. temperature

15°C – 36°C(59°F – 97°F)

Crowds

High

Peak: December – January & Songkran (April)

Getting there

Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) has direct flights from Bangkok (1 hr), Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Overnight sleeper trains from Bangkok take ~12 hrs.

Getting around

  • Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks)
  • Grab (available in city centre)
  • Motorbike rental (฿150–250/day)
  • Tuk-tuks (negotiate price first)

Where to stay near The Treasury Museum Chiang Mai

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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture

Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.

Mind Your Feet

Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.

Ask Before Photographing

Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.

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