International Tsunami Museum
A museum about the 2004 tsunami on Highway 4 in Bang Niang, a few steps from Police Boat 813 and opposite Bang Niang Market, about ฿300.
Plan your visit
- Hours
- Mon 10:00–19:00, Tue 10:00–18:00, Wed–Thu 10:00–19:00, Fri 10:00–18:00, Sat 10:00–19:00, Sun 10:00–18:00
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.
Details
Full opening hours
Tours that include International Tsunami Museum
Guided visits and day-tour combos that include International Tsunami Museum.
Why go, and how to do it well
The International Tsunami Museum tells the story of 26 December 2004, when the Indian Ocean tsunami struck the Khao Lak coast harder than anywhere else in Thailand and more than 4,000 people died here. It stands on Highway 4 in Bang Niang, a few steps from Police Boat 813, the patrol boat the wave left about a kilometer from the beach.
I'd see the two together. The boat shows you how far the water came, and the museum fills in the day itself, with photographs and survivors' accounts. Allow half an hour to an hour, and treat it as a memorial.
Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Oct 2026
Stay within reach of International Tsunami Museum
SponsoredSearch Khao Lak hotels with your dates. Filter for free cancellation if you want to hold a room and decide later.
See hotels near International Tsunami MuseumOpens Booking.com with your dates
Also compare on Expedia
Tours that include International Tsunami Museum
Guided visits and day-tour combos that include International Tsunami Museum.
Around here, on foot
Well-rated places within a short walk of International Tsunami Museum, nearest first. Minutes are at an easy pace in the heat.
- 1 minPolice Boat 813 Tsunami MemorialTemples & Culture · 70 m · 4.2★
- 4 minBang Niang MarketMarkets & Shopping · 320 m · 4.2★
- 4 minGecko Bar , KhaolakNightlife & Bars · 340 m · 4.7★
- 4 minLemon RestaurantRestaurants & Food · 360 m · 4.8★
- 5 minCherrun Thai Massage KhaolakWellness & Spas · 400 m · 4.7★
- 5 minTiki Bar Bang NiangNightlife & Bars · 440 m · 4.6★
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After International Tsunami Museum, round out your day in Khao Lak with contrasting stops nearby.
9 60, Tambon Khuekkhak, Amphoe Takua Pa
Open in Google MapsMore temples & culture nearby
All within 1.7 km of International Tsunami Museum.
Police Boat 813 Tsunami Memorial
Wat Phanat Nikhom
Somdej Ong Pathom Shrine
Wat Phadung Tham Phothi Wat
Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
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.
Go Early Morning
Big-name temples are dramatically less crowded in the first hour after opening. You'll also avoid the worst of the midday heat and get softer light for photos.
International Tsunami Museum: Frequently Asked Questions
Is International Tsunami Museum worth visiting?
International Tsunami Museum holds a 3.8★ rating from 2,466 Google reviews. Reviews are mixed, so check recent visitor feedback above to see if it fits your plans.
What are the opening hours of International Tsunami Museum?
International Tsunami Museum is typically open 10:00–19:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit International Tsunami Museum?
The best months to visit Khao Lak are December – March (Similan season Oct 15 – May 15), with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – February (strong European family season) — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: August – October (the wettest months, Similans closed).
Where is International Tsunami Museum located?
International Tsunami Museum is at 9 60, Tambon Khuekkhak, Amphoe Takua Pa, in Khao Lak. Getting around Khao Lak: Songthaews along the main coastal road (Phetkasem highway); Motorbike rental (฿250–300/day; the resort areas string along one road).
Also popular in Khao Lak
KHAOLAK CENTER
Waankarn Khao Lak
Chang Massage khaolak
Khaolak Elephant Conservation
Similar Temples & Culture across Thailand
Phuket Mining Museum
Wat Khlong Thom Museum
Oub Kham Museum
