Another must-visit destination in Thailand’s Samut Prakan Province is the Ancient City, also known as Muang Boran. Spanning 96 hectares and laid out in the shape of the Thai map, this vast cultural park ranks among the largest open-air museums in the world. Located roughly 35 kilometers southeast of Bangkok, I reached the site on a shared van ride as part of a day trip to the province but it’s also accessible via public transport by taking the BTS Sukhumvit Line to Kheha Station, followed by a short 5-kilometer taxi or ride-hailing journey. Interestingly, Muang Boran is managed by the Ancient City Group, the same organization behind the Erawan Museum featured in my previous post. Both cultural landmarks were the vision of Lek Viriyaphant, a prominent Thai entrepreneur and philanthropist with a deep passion for traditional Thai art and heritage. In fact, Muang Boran predates Erawan Museum by several decades as it was officially opened to the public in 1972, after nearly nine years of development and construction.
Khun Lek was profoundly concerned about the moral and cultural decline he observed in the modern world, particularly the growing sense of materialism and the intensifying clash between Eastern and Western values. His response to this challenge was visionary: through the creation of Muang Boran and other cultural projects, he sought to preserve and celebrate Thai art, architecture, and heritage as a guiding light for future generations. He firmly believed that meaningful change must be a collective effort—gradual and communal, like building a hill from countless lumps of earth.
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| This is not in Grand Palace but a faithful replica of the original Dusit Maha Prasat Palace in Bangkok |
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| Muang Boran showcases iconic Thai architecture from across the country, including this Phra Kaew Pavilion |
Born in 1914 to a Thai-Chinese family in the Sampeng area of Bangkok, Khun Lek first developed a deep appreciation for art and culture while studying in China. Upon returning to Thailand, he began collecting antiques and nurtured a growing commitment to cultural preservation. This passion eventually led him to conceive a museum that would reflect the nation’s rich artistic and architectural legacy. Khun Lek immersed himself in the project’s development, paying close attention to every design, symbolic element, and historical detail. For more than a decade, he traveled extensively throughout Thailand, accompanied by scholars and cultural experts, gathering the knowledge needed to bring his vision to life. The result is a cultural park that showcases traditional Thai architecture through three main approaches: original structures relocated and reconstructed on-site, faithful replicas based on existing monuments or reconstructions of long-lost buildings based on historical records, and imaginative creations inspired by historical and cultural references, shaped by Khun Lek’s unique artistic vision. Construction of this expansive open-air museum began in late 1963. Since then, the Ancient City has continued to evolve, with new replicas and cultural installations being added regularly—some replacing outdated structures, while others aim to complete the park’s regional or historical narrative. When I visited, several areas were under renovation or redevelopment, which is understandable given that the site has been in existence for over sixty years.
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Another highlight is the majestic reconstruction of Sanphet Prasat Palace, once the grand royal hall of Ayutthaya
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| This grand hall hosted King Rama IX and Queen Elizabeth II in 1972, marking the official opening of Muang Boran |
To help visitors explore the vast grounds, a complimentary tram service offers a guided tour of key highlights with designated stops for brief visits. However, for those seeking more freedom and flexibility, bicycles, e-bikes, and golf carts (buggies) are available for rent. I opted for a golf cart, which proved to be the most comfortable choice—especially since I visited around midday when the weather was hot and humid. To make the most of your visit, it’s also wise to bring a bottle of water, wear a hat and sunglasses, and don’t forget to apply sunscreen. Each visitor is provided with a physical map upon entering the Ancient City, but one piece of advice I’d offer, especially if you're short on time, is to plan your route in advance. Before my visit to Muang Boran, I downloaded a digital map and marked the landmarks that interested me most. The official website also provides a helpful preview of each site within the park and even points out several recommended landmarks, which made it easier to prioritize the spots I didn’t want to miss. This allowed me to create a personalized route while still leaving room for spontaneous stops along the way. Having a plan really helped me make the most of my time in this sprawling cultural park.
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| Some iconic spots, like the Pavilion of the Enlightened, are original creations from Khun Lek’s imagination |
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| Blending spiritual symbolism with architectural beauty also seen vividly in landmarks like the Sumeru Mountain |
Muang Boran is thoughtfully divided into five geographical zones: North, Northeast, Central, East, and South, each mirroring Thailand’s actual regions. These zones feature meticulously recreated historical sites spanning major eras of Thai civilization, including Lopburi, Lanna, Lan Chang, Sukhothai, Ayutthaya, Thonburi, and Rattanakosin The first spot I visited in the Ancient City was actually one of the most significant ones, Sanphet Prasat Palace. Even in smaller-scale version, the magnificent palace was recreated using archaeological evidence and historical texts to depict the original Sanphet Prasat Palace, the principal throne hall in early Ayutthaya, commissioned by King Boromatrai Lokanat. The original royal structure was destroyed when Ayutthaya was sacked by Burmese forces in 1767. This meticulously reconstructed replica featuring intricate architectural and interior details was later used by King Bhumibol Adulyadej to welcome Queen Elizabeth II during her visit on February 11, 1972. This royal occasion, uniting two of the world's longest-reigning monarchs, also marked the official opening of the Ancient City.
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| This elegant white pavilion, Phra That Mondop, stands as a one of Muang Boran’s spiritual highlights |
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| A serene statue of Khun Lek Viriyaphant and his wife Prapai, honoring their legacy at the heart of the park |
Another memorable highlight from my visit isn’t a replica of a historical structure, but rather a unique creation born from Khun Lek’s own imagination—the Pavilion of the Enlightened. Situated in the western zone of the Ancient City, this striking overwater pavilion draws inspiration from the Mahāyāna Buddhist tale of 500 monks who each attained Nirvāṇa through their own individual paths. The message is clear: regardless of one’s background, journey, or merit, enlightenment is possible for all. Gracefully positioned above a tranquil pond, the green-and-gold structure seems to float, radiating a peaceful atmosphere that mirrors the spiritual symbolism it represents. With its intricate design and serene surroundings, this pavilion has become one of the most iconic and frequently featured landmarks of Muang Boran—appearing in countless postcards, posters, and visitor reviews. Though I didn’t have a drone to capture the aerial view, I found joy in exploring the site on foot and taking plenty of photos to remember it by.
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| A stunning replica of Wat Phumin from Nan, brings northern Thai charm to the heart of Muang Boran |
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| This traditional wooden Wihan of Wat Chiang Khong was relocated from Chiang Rai |
Another striking landmark in the Ancient City is the Sumeru Mountain, located not far from the Pavilion of the Enlightened. This dramatic structure was born from Khun Lek’s imagination and serves as a symbolic reimagining of Mount Sumeru—the sacred axis mundi in both Buddhist and Hindu cosmology. Rising from a tranquil pond that represents the cosmic ocean Nathi Si Thandorn, the mountain is encircled by the colossal serpent-fish Anondha, believed to support the world atop the cosmic sea. At its summit sits the intricately designed Phaichayon Maha Prasat, the celestial palace of the deity Sakka (Indra), who is said to descend from here in times of crisis to aid humanity. In ancient Thai belief, Mount Sumeru lies at the center of the universe, resting on the back of this divine creature. Its presence at Muang Boran reflects a profound cosmological symbolism—evoking themes of balance, divine order, and the invisible forces that uphold the world.
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| A serene circle of Chinese-style deities, offering a tranquil space amidst Muang Boran’s multicultural tapestry |
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| The Ramayana Forest brings to life Ramakien, the Thai interpretation of the Hindu epic |
In total there are more than 100 different spots to visit around the Ancient City, from traditional buildings, palaces, chedis and temples, including a smaller replica of the Dusit Maha Prasat or the Grand Palace based on the original version built by King Rama I of the early Rattanakosin era. Other spots showcase a number of statues influenced by Buddhism, Hinduism and Thai traditional faiths, like The Ramayana Garden, Mondop of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvar (Kuan-Yin) and Sala of 80 Yogis. Beyond its majestic landmarks, the Ancient City offers a wealth of immersive experiences that allow visitors to connect with Thai culture on multiple levels. One such area is the traditional floating market, where wooden boats line the water’s edge, offering local snacks, tropical fruits, souvenirs, and handicrafts in a nostalgic setting reminiscent of old riverside communities. It’s an atmospheric stop where visitors can sample authentic Thai street food while soaking in the relaxed, canal-side ambiance. For those staying through midday, the Pavilion Restaurant is a convenient and elegant option for lunch. Located within the central area of the park, the restaurant features a scenic setting and offers a buffet lunch selection, allowing guests to enjoy a wide variety of Thai dishes—from classic curries and stir-fries to refreshing desserts—all in a relaxed indoor space.
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| A detailed map of Muang Boran is an essential companion for navigating the vast park—helping visitors plan their routes, locate must-see landmarks, and make the most of their cultural journey |
To further elevate the cultural experience, Muang Boran also provides a traditional Thai costume rental service. Visitors can choose from beautifully detailed traditional outfits of Thailand. Donning these costumes not only makes for wonderful photos among the ornate pavilions and ancient ruins but also adds a layer of connection to the stories and traditions embedded in the park’s architecture. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from Bangkok’s urban bustle, Muang Boran promises an enriching experience. Just a short trip from the city, this open-air museum allows you to explore miniature architectural wonders from across Thailand—all in a single day. It’s a place where the past is thoughtfully preserved, the myths are brought to life, and every corner offers a new story to discover. With its blend of education, reflection, and recreation, a visit to the Ancient City leaves a lasting impression and reminding us of the timeless beauty and spiritual richness of Thai heritage.
Ancient City (Muang Boran)
เมืองโบราณ
Location 296, 1 Sukhumvit Rd, Bang Pu Mai, Mueang Samut Prakan District, Samut Prakan, Thailand
Opening Hours
Daily, 09.00 AM to 07.00 PM
Ticket close at 06.00 PM
Admission Fee
Adult - 800 Baht
Children - 400 Baht
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