Khao Yai Art Museum: Visitor Guide

Updated October 2026

Introduction

The Khao Yai Art Museum (also called the Khao Yai Art Forest or Khao Yai Arts Museum in some sources) is a calm counterpoint to the area’s busier attractions. It is a private museum founded by collector Pongchai Chindasuk to share his collection of Thai contemporary art, and it combines indoor galleries with a large outdoor sculpture garden set on rolling grounds.

Destination overview

The museum sits on more than 20 rai (around 3.2 hectares) of landscaped land in Mu Si. According to a visitor guide published by InterContinental Khao Yai Resort, its indoor space covers over 1,700 square metres across three halls focused on Thai contemporary art, including paintings by the well-known artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. Outside, large-scale sculptures are placed across the lawns, and a golden Ganesha statue stands on the hilltop. There is also a cafe and a small shop.

The museum was free for many years; a modest admission fee now helps maintain the facilities.

Main highlights

• Three indoor galleries of Thai contemporary painting and sculpture.
• The outdoor sculpture garden, best explored slowly with the hills as a backdrop.
• The hilltop Ganesha, a popular photo stop.
• The upstairs cafe, for a coffee with a view.

Best time to visit

Weekday mornings are the quietest. The outdoor garden is most pleasant in the cool season (November to February) or late in the afternoon in the hot season. Because much of the collection is indoors, the museum is also a good rainy-day option.

Transportation information

The museum is on a side road off Thanarat Road in the Ban Tha Chang area of Mu Si, convenient from most resorts on the northern side. You will need a car, taxi or hired driver. It works well combined with Ban Tha Chang Spring, which is in the same area, or with lunch at a nearby cafe.

Directions to the museum

Practical visitor tips

• Check photography rules in the indoor galleries.
• Bring a hat and water for the outdoor garden.
• Allow two hours if you want to see both the galleries and the garden properly.
• Confirm hours by phone before travelling on public holidays.

Nearby accommodation

The museum is close to the main resort area in Mu Si. Couples may enjoy pairing it with a stay from our romantic getaways guide; see also the pool villa resort guide.

Related guides

• Primo Piazza Khao Yai
• Restaurants and cafes
• Things to do in Khao Yai

References

• InterContinental Khao Yai: Khao Yai Art Museum guide

Editorial note: Khao Yai Retreat is an independent travel information website. We do not own or operate any hotel, villa or attraction mentioned here, and listings are not paid placements. Facilities, prices and opening hours change, so please confirm details directly with the property or attraction before you travel.