Baan Dam Museum image

Baan Dam Museum

Tourist attraction Museum Art museum

One of the Best Places To Visits in Ban Pa Ha


Address

333 Nang Lae, อำเภอเมือง Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand

Contact

+66 53 776 333

Rating on Google Maps

4.10 (10.9K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Sunday: 9 am to 5 pm
  • Monday: 9 am to 5 pm
  • Tuesday: 9 am to 5 pm
  • Wednesday: 9 am to 5 pm
  • Thursday: 9 am to 5 pm
  • Friday: 9 am to 5 pm
  • Saturday: 9 am to 5 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: museum (32) buildings (21) visit (19) unique (16) interesting (14) worth (11) experience (10) building (10) artwork (10) artist (9)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 KC 1 year ago on Google
    Normally museums are kinda boring but I love how they incorporate technology into the art/painting to make it more interactive in this museum. I love the traditional architecture here. There are many animals skin/bone display here. There are more areas still under renovation so I believe there are more things to offer in the future.
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Eric M. 1 year ago on Google
    Quite an interesting museum. Not too large. The art is interesting and there's lots of phallic stuff, so yeah, heads up. I would've like it to have a bit more stuff. The place is nice and it's a good visit it just felt like it could've had more. Maybe having a more structured experience might also help because it wasn't very clear where to go or in what order and at some point I just found myself wondering what to do next.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Martin M. 3 months ago on Google • 290 reviews New
    Fantastic - beautiful and absolutely worth the visit. Plenty of parking available through overflow parking lots. Many different artists showcase their pieces here in a great setup. Massage and local merchants have also shop there. You can easily spend 2-3 hours here. Would come again, in my mind on #2 for Chiang Rai

  • 5/5 Suk T. 6 months ago on Google • 74 reviews
    It's like entering the artist's mind. So many objects of curiosities . The main museum is made of teak and it's impressive. I wish we had spent more time in the Black temple than the blue and white temple.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Atakan A. 4 months ago on Google • 100 reviews
    In this museum designed by Thawan Duchanee, death and mystical worlds were chosen as the subject. The artist is dead and that makes this place more valuable. A large garden where you can spend time indoors and exhibition huts placed in the garden give the atmosphere a village atmosphere, worth seeing.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Golf G. 3 months ago on Google • 154 reviews New
    A museum where almost everything is in a black tone. also a lot of black traditional houses. You can walk around the area. it has very large walking spaces. However, it's not free. At the time 2024-01-07, the entry fee is THB 80 for adults, and free for the ones over 60.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Deedar 5 months ago on Google • 81 reviews
    The Black Temple, or Baan Dam, commonly referred to as the House, offered a vastly different yet equally captivating experience. The nominal entry fee of 80 baht was a small price to pay for the unique artistic expression within. As I approached, the striking black exterior surrounded by sculptures and intriguing structures hinted at the unconventional experience awaiting inside. Each building, adorned with dark, ornate carvings and sculptures, revealed a deeper, almost mystical, side of local artistry. Exploring the interiors, the intricate and sometimes eerie art pieces evoked a sense of wonder and curiosity. The combination of wood, animal bones, and unique artifacts showcased the darker, more enigmatic side of Thai art and culture. The serene environment within the compound allowed for an immersive experience, while the free parking and convenient location as part of the travel hub made it accessible to curious travelers like myself.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Orianne G. 1 year ago on Google
    I loved this museum, and walking aimless in the park around, we went at the end of the day and it was really peaceful, an uncommon but yet pleasant feeling of letting your imagination wandering freely. My teenagers boys found it a bit repetitive though, I quite agree as there is many identical pieces (a lot of animals skins) but the atmosphere is unique and well worth the visit. If, like me, you were a big fan of the universe of the video game Myst you will certainly experience something with this place too.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 VpV 1 year ago on Google
    A very unique installation with a LOT of artworks. There are several buildings with different and amazing items. Main building has very cool art works with a QR code near it. Scan it and it will take you to instagram filter which after loading will show the artwork moving on your phone, just make sure to point the phone at the art. The entrance fee was 80 baht, and it was not crowded at all. Make sure to put some bug spray before you go, most of the art is outside and bugs will munch on you :) There are some places to get cold water and soft drinks and also some beer :) Ice cream also available:) Allow at least an hour to an hour and half for this place. Also if you are taking Grab to get there, to get Grab back into town will take some time, the location is a bit remote and not a lot of cars out there . Highly recommended to visit!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lin Jasmine K. 1 year ago on Google
    It is a beautiful museum full of energy. The buildings are wonderful to look around but also there are full of art pieces. You can see very exotic art crafts in Chiang rai and also have wonderful moment.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sharon W. 1 year ago on Google
    Oh my goodness. If you get the chance to visit this amazing museum, be sure walk around all of the buildings in the grounds. Amazing building styles, so peaceful too. We went with Wendy's Tours but if you have your own vehicle it's a great place to visit and you buy tickets at the gate.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alexander J. 1 year ago on Google
    A very cool place with a bunch of different buildings to check out. The grounds are fairly open and so I took my own path around and tried to get a glimpse of every thing. 80 baht and I spent about an hour or so there. Wandering. Taking pictures. Enjoying the atmosphere.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Sebastian “Signs” G. 1 year ago on Google
    Price: 80 Baht. Unless you’re into modern art or near the place I suggest you to skip it. Don’t get me wrong, the museum is super cool, has some awesome art and some really photogenic places, but it’s really far from the city center and I think it’s not worth the hassle to get there if you’re not really into that kind of art.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Wai Qian T. 7 months ago on Google
    An art based museum. It shows the local architecture of the region, and with some interesting 3D art using augmented reality. However it wasn't working for us when we're there, even though there is free WiFi. Otherwise, there are nice buildings showing local traditional buildings, and the culture of crocodile skinning. There isn't much to do, but still nice to look.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Radley C. 3 months ago on Google • 132 reviews New
    The Black House takes a look at the darker side of art and society. Stunningly dramatic structures form a large, amazing complex that was once the home of a national artist and a thriving creative colony. Every building is an adventure!

  • 5/5 ian w. 1 year ago on Google
    Cool spot. Certainly not for everyone but we are fans of tribal art and artifacts so it was entertaining for us. The artist is truly talented and has a collection of artifacts that you couldn’t legally curate now. They also had an immersive art exhibit with Instagram filters which was pretty cool. The giant ferns were an added bonus. Went with older teenage kids and it was fine. We x Would recommend.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Goutham R. 1 year ago on Google
    The place felt like it was haunted. You can witness real crocodile skins, skulls, wild buffalo horns etc. There are some modern paintings as well. It's very close to the Blue temple. So you can plan to visit both of the same day. You've restaurants nearby as well and a clothing store.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Adrian S. 1 year ago on Google
    This is a must visit if you like sight seeing. This is known as the black temple. It is very unique and so much history to these temples. You will not be disappointed visiting this temple. Approximately 2-3 hours away from Chang Mai but you can book day tours with local. Well worth the visit here. Very warm here.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brigid W. 9 months ago on Google
    Such a wild experience. If you're sensitive to phallic displays or don't want to expose your kids to tons of wooden phalluses I don't recommend this place. However if you're fine with them. Then it's a really fun place to wander around and enjoy all the different buildings and exhibitions. The art in the big house is really cool and using your phone you can make it come to life. Entrance fee is 80 baht. Definitely worth a visit!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Greg J. 4 months ago on Google
    Not may cup of tea. 80 baht to get in, just didn't find it that interesting. If you like art type places it might be for you. I would not go out of way to see it and if you missed no lose. 3btraveler
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Samuel S. 5 months ago on Google
    The entrance fee here is ฿80, and I would recommend coming earlier in the day where it's not so hot. This is because there's a lot of outdoor walking. The first building you will come across is the museum with lots of paintings. I loved this part the most as it the art is immersive. Next to each painting is a QR code which links to an AR filter on Instagram. Pointing the camera at the painting will lead to the painting coming alive. There are also several other buildings that you can explore that showcase collections of animal skulls, shells and skins.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Andrea R. 1 year ago on Google
    This is for sure a different kind of museum from what you would see anywhere else. The museum is basically a small village with several different houses and huts. Each one has a different theme. It's overall very dark and there are several genitals inspired artworks, so not suitable for kids. The main hall has an exposition of paintings from the artist, Thawan Duchanee. The paintings have an interesting augmented reality like feature that you can activate via a qr code. Not for everyone, but i would definitely recommend visiting. Closing time 5:00pm, entrance fee 80 baht
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 J & J T. 2 years ago on Google
    Baan Dam (Black House), part art studio, home and museum, is the unique creation of national artist, Thawan Duchanee. Baan Dam is an eclectic mix of traditional northern Thai buildings mixed with some outlandish modern designs. Baan Dam is a thought-provoking combination of sanuk, the surreal and the sombre and whilst it’s fair to say that some of the artwork and themes on display won’t be to everybody’s liking, I’d still recommend checking out the Black House if you are visiting Chiang Rai.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rupali B. 2 years ago on Google
    A fun place to spend a few hours. The artist does have a thing for antlers and antler designs as well as certain parts of the human anatomy, but all in good fun and quirkiness.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Valentino R. 2 years ago on Google
    One of the greatest art in the city. I would totally recommend you to check it out if you're in Chaing Rai. The place itself is quite huge so it's worth for what you paid. Although this was back in 2018 so I'm not really sure how it change now.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 E J. 4 months ago on Google • 41 reviews
    Very interesting museum with so much to see! Stunning artwork and a fascinating peek into the life of the artist. I particularly enjoyed having a guided tour. The local artisan stalls at the end of the visit are a lovely touch.

  • 1/5 ollie b. 2 months ago on Google • 39 reviews New
    Great artwork and fantastic grounds surrounding the museum. But why would you have cats inside a cage? Not only is it cruel but what damage would the cats do to anything, there is plenty of nice space for them to run around….

  • 5/5 Pranav M. 2 months ago on Google • 16 reviews New
    What an amazing museum!! The buildings, the artwork, the story of the museum was all very nice. The AR concept using QR codes & insta was absolutely brilliant. 2 hours is enough to see the essentials, but would recommend 3-4 hours for this place. 100bht entry fee.

  • 5/5 lo c. 3 years ago on Google
    Very unique place of art. The master is very fantasy full. Worth dropping by for a visit

  • 5/5 Clare F. 3 months ago on Google • 9 reviews New
    I absolutely loved this place. Lots of visual inspiration and artwork. Fantastic carvings and atmospheric buildings. It has some quite explicit exhibits but eloquently expresses life, death and facets of humanity.

  • 4/5 Chima vlogs official السفر و المغامرات مع شيما (Shima journey_رحلة �. 3 years ago on Google
    Support me on Instagram and YouTube channel "Chima vlogs official" the museum was amazing I recommend 1000%

  • 5/5 Tracy S. 3 years ago on Google
    Highly recommend this museum. There are so many unique and interesting works of art and architecture here. The works seem to play on both traditional and contemporary aspects of Thai culture, with some Western influence as well. This is a must see in Chiang Rai. So unique and one of my favorite places in all of Thailand. Note: Visited prior to COVID, so things may be slightly different.

  • 5/5 Ashley M. 3 years ago on Google
    The museum is just gorgeous. Dating back from the late 1930s it's a homage to a very significant Thai religious art style. There are many places inside the museum to take beautiful pictures and revel in the art and history of the while place. Bring a packed lunch and picnic amongst the stunning verandas.

  • 5/5 Cindy C. 1 year ago on Google
    Very interesting buildings and interior design. It gives a bit of creepy vibes but it’s very characteristic. Overall, We had fun walking around.

  • 3/5 David L. 4 months ago on Google
    Personally,i don't understand this artist's arts.The buildings had interesting architecture. Some of the art exhibits and even the toilet signing look quite interesting (I don't think i can post those photos here).

  • 5/5 Andrew W. 3 years ago on Google
    Intriguing place! Gorgeous carvings, beautiful, solid wooden buildings, some 'interesting' art exhibits inside. A must visit if you are in Chiang Rai.

  • 5/5 Delphine D. 2 years ago on Google
    Very nice place, peaceful and relaxing. The woodwork is really impressive! Entrance is 80thb only per person, and the size is quite big. You can plan 1h to visit all. Just miss some explanation because it's a little bit... Unique

  • 5/5 Greete K. 2 years ago on Google
    Very cool museum. Built on a large area with several small houses and museum type of things to see. Interesting and well built. Recommended.

  • 3/5 Jacob G. 2 years ago on Google
    80 baht entrance fees. All nearby shops are shut so make sure you grab some snacks or refreshment from somewhere else before coming. Some exhibits are locked behind certain building. Such a shame as I feel they should have open them. Otherwise it just a building with that seen from the outside. Fortunately Some buildings do have window panels to look into. This is an art museum from a very creative Thai artist. Some exhibits can be rather disturbing so younger visitors should be escorted. Most artwork definitely unique, bizarre and tribalism in nature. I come with high expectations but unfortunately it is just 'meh' for me. I wouldn't come again if given the chance, I rather be petting cats while drinking some coffee in some cafe in the town.

  • 3/5 Nicha S. 2 years ago on Google
    Despite having multiple buildings, only one building is opened for visit. It is made into an art gallery displaying how art combines with AR technology. The first few artwork replicas are interesting, but the novelty is lost quickly. The remaining buildings are closed. The basements are turned into storage space. If on the way, then indeed do stop by. Otherwise, it’s not worth the travel until the place fully opens after prior Covid closure.

  • 5/5 Karolina D. 1 year ago on Google
    An unique attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into the mind of the late Thai artist, Thawan Duchanee. The museum showcases a diverse collection of art including paintings, sculptures, animal bones, skins, horns and many other unique items from around the world. There are nearly 40 buildings of varying shapes and sizes, a mix of traditional Thai art and unconventional pieces. Some of the exhibitions may be considered controversial, but this is what makes the museum all the more interesting.

  • 4/5 Pratieq 10 months ago on Google
    Visited this place after reading mixed reviews. This place offers you great viking vibes. Some of you might found this place dark and creepy but the craft is appreciable. The collection they had in main dome is spine chilling. Entrance ticket is 80TBH per person. Recommend not travel during summer noon as it becomes too tiring and sweaty.

  • 3/5 Alwin G. 9 months ago on Google
    The Viking-themed Baan Dam Museum offers a distinctive experience that's quite different from your average museum visit. However, its uniqueness can also lead to confusion, as I sometimes struggled to comprehend what I was looking at. Unlike my experiences at other museums, I felt the need for some guidance or descriptive information to better navigate and appreciate the exhibits

  • 3/5 John C. 9 months ago on Google
    The arts and crafts are wonderfully mysterious. The temple is amazing. Too bad, the staff isn't friendly at all. We paid for the entrance but didn't show any value of hospitality there.

  • 4/5 Joanne B. 9 months ago on Google
    Found this interesting if a little strange, not like any other museum I have been to. It was a very hot, humid day too when we went so I wasn't really feeling it. I would say it's worth going to see, though . 90 TBH each fee .

  • 4/5 Maria E. 1 year ago on Google
    Very unique place. I loved the traditional Lana architecture and modern buildings Artist and architect definitely had his own vision. Black wood houses on a sunny day surrounded by all greenery look gorgeous. For sensitive people the place maybe too much, there are lots of skins and leather furniture. I was told no animal was killed to get it, but I cannot confirm it. Most building are closed to visit and you can only peek through the window.

  • 4/5 Ilan K. 1 year ago on Google
    The main building at the start holds inside unique art works and installations such as horns, crocodile skin, giant rooster and more... There are scattered buildings around the ground, some closed and some have more installations around and under them. The place is very charming and different and worth a visit

  • 4/5 Freeze F. 2 years ago on Google
    Pretty unique artworks. Got a spooky feeling in some spots seeing the remains of dead animals. But overall I had a unique experience about artwork. Some artwork had a QR code against it which has a instagram filter which has creates some animation. Entrance fee of 80 baht.

  • 5/5 Sabnam T. 1 year ago on Google
    The museum houses a collection of thousands of horns of various animals, crocodile skins, python or anaconda's skin etc. The entire museum formed of large halls and houses build from durable and high quality wood. The black color of the structures look great against the country vibes. And the qr code against the paintings brings to life the painted life within it.

  • 4/5 Sofia C. 1 year ago on Google
    Nice experience if you like odd and weird museums. I would say the experience is good but it is not a must, if you have time it is a good choice. First time tasting charcoal ice cream!

  • 5/5 Trevor G. 2 years ago on Google
    The Black Temple is really cool. There are some interesting artifacts in the museum and other buildings around the complex. Definitely different compared to your standard temple in Thailand. It was a bit crowded with tourists when we went but still worth the visit. Check it out if you’re in Chiang Rai area.

  • 5/5 Soos L. 2 years ago on Google
    This is another must if you are in Chiang Rai region, you can very seldom see such high quality sculpting, art, and creativity in the same place. There is a very low entrance fee 80 baht per person. There are shops around with food, juices, coffee and fruits. Big parking easily accessible with scooter. Very big like from my side :)

  • 5/5 Daniel 2 years ago on Google
    If you aren’t into art, you’d probably find this site boring and dusty. This house is a bit different than other landmarks in Chiang Rai. Lots of artsy and gothic collections. Dead animals, strange objects, and nice house architectural roofs.

  • 5/5 mlesliec 1 year ago on Google
    The skills displayed in the art and the carvings of the structure itself is magnificent. Worth visiting if you have any cultured taste at all.


Call +66 53 776 333 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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