Siriraj Medical Museum, Bangkok - A building with a fountain in front of it
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Siriraj Medical Museum Bangkok

4.3
·426 reviews·, Thailand

Bangkok's 'Museum of Death' offers a unique, intense, and educational journey through anatomy, pathology, and forensic science.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more focused viewing

CrowdLow
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Siriraj Medical Museum, Bangkok - A building with a fountain in front of it

Siriraj Medical Museum Bangkok

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more focused viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Bangkok's 'Museum of Death' offers a unique, intense, and educational journey through anatomy, pathology, and forensic science.

4.3
(426 reviews)

"It's a fascinating, albeit intense, educational experience far removed from typical tourist trails."

Vertical photo
TIP

Not for the Faint of Heart

This museum is intense! Be prepared for graphic displays of preserved body parts and diseases.

Plan Your Transport

It's located within Siriraj Hospital, so factor in travel time from central Bangkok. Taxis or Grab are common options.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Human Nervous System

The Human Nervous System

Anatomy Museum

A rare and incredibly detailed dissection of the entire human nervous system. Truly a marvel of anatomical preparation.

Forensic Pathology Exhibits

Forensic Pathology Exhibits

Forensic Museum

Explore real forensic cases and learn about the science behind identifying victims and understanding causes of death.

Parasitic Invasions

Parasitic Invasions

Parasitology Museum

See the unsettling reality of parasitic infections with preserved specimens that highlight their impact on the human body.

Tsunami Aftermath & Victim ID

Tsunami Aftermath & Victim ID

Forensic Museum

A poignant exhibition detailing the aftermath of the 2004 Tsunami and the efforts of victim identification.

Planning Your Visit

Prepare for the Macabre

This isn't your typical museum. The Siriraj Medical Museum, often called the 'Museum of Death,' showcases preserved body parts, diseases, and forensic cases. It's fascinating but definitely not for the faint of heart. Go in with an open mind and be ready for some intense exhibits.

Getting There & Timing

Located within Siriraj Hospital, it's a bit of a journey from central Bangkok. Plan your transport and check opening hours, as it's closed on Tuesdays. Arriving early can help you avoid the biggest crowds and make the most of your visit.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more focused viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons (except Tuesdays)
Why
Museum is open, but can get busier
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

My mom said HEALTH IS WEALTH 🫡 #bangkok #thailand #medicaltourism #healthcheckup @Intrarat Hospital KM9
@eyecharlene
700.2K likes • 4.6M views

Not for the Faint of Heart

This museum is intense! Be prepared for graphic displays of preserved body parts and diseases. Instagram+1

Plan Your Transport

It's located within Siriraj Hospital, so factor in travel time from central Bangkok. Taxis or Grab are common options. TikTok

What you're looking at is one of the rarest anatomical preparations in the world-an entire human nervous system. Housed at the Siriraj Medical Museum in Bangkok, this delicate dissection showcases th...
medicalblaze
35 likes • 2.3K views
A museum with an iron long, preserved body parts and past forensic cases, you say? 📍Siriraj Medical Museum, #Bangkok #travel #museum #offthebeatenpath #thailand
julesie
61 likes • 1.7K views

Check Opening Hours

The museum is closed on Tuesdays. Double-check hours before you go to avoid disappointment. Instagram

Focus on Specific Exhibits

With 5 distinct areas, don't try to see everything. Pick what interests you most to avoid overwhelm. Reddit

🏛️🔬 Step into the fascinating world of medical history at Siriraj Museum in Bangkok! Known as the Museum of Death, this place is packed with intriguing exhibits that will leave you in awe. 🏥🧪 📍 Locat...
bangkok.moments.official
1 likes • 1.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Not for the Faint of Heart

This museum is intense! Be prepared for graphic displays of preserved body parts and diseases. Instagram+1

Plan Your Transport

It's located within Siriraj Hospital, so factor in travel time from central Bangkok. Taxis or Grab are common options. TikTok

Check Opening Hours

The museum is closed on Tuesdays. Double-check hours before you go to avoid disappointment. Instagram

Focus on Specific Exhibits

With 5 distinct areas, don't try to see everything. Pick what interests you most to avoid overwhelm. Reddit

Photography is Restricted

While some creators capture content, be mindful of signage. Flash photography is usually prohibited. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.3
(426 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Siriraj Medical Museum is a unique and intense experience, often described as the 'Museum of Death.' While not for the faint of heart due to its graphic displays of preserved body parts and forensic cases, it's highly praised for its educational value and as an offbeat attraction. Visitors appreciate the affordability and the deep dive into medical science and history.

"Extremely impressive complex of several specialized museums, including four (general medicine, pathology, forensic, parasitology) in that very same location. Very informative, bilingual, however, I don't think general visitors should find its display interesting and appealing, as some parts of it may look pretty shocking to those far from medicine, forensic or crime investigation.

Photography is strictly prohibited inside museums. My photos shown here were made from museum entrances."

V K

"A little hard to review this place. It’s very informative but you need a strong stomach to go here. There is actually 3 museum and they cost 100 baht each. Free for Thai. All three museums have some interesting stuff but lots of dead bodies and babies in jars. So if you don’t mind seeing that this place is for you. It also has a bit of a hospital smell. I’ve added some pictures of the exhibit that are appropriate but not of the dead bodies inside, just be warned! Some pictures are of the other two museums, my favorite was the boat museum which has the largest wooden boat ever found underground and also no dead bodies at the boat museum"

Ian M

"A definite stop for those that have any interest in this amazing place. I thoroughly enjoyed my time from start to finish. Top notch educational experience for anyone interested in medicine, anatomy, forensics, or just the macabre

The exhibits are deeply informative, a bit intense, and seriously one-of-a-kind. It’s not your average museum and that’s the point. You’re getting honest displays of the human body and medical history. If you have a weak stomach, find someplace else for your sensitive nature.

As for the 1-star reviews? Ignore them. They’re clearly from people who either didn’t understand the complex or probably shouldn’t have visited a museum like this in the first place.

Only thing of note that can be taken negatively is the lack of AC, but they have open windows and fans blowing, so if you can handle that, this is an amazing stop to add to your itinerary! Take my advice, don’t miss this if you’re nearby and have the time to do it!"

Kyle Miller

What People Like

Unique and intense exhibits
Educational value
Affordable prices

What People Dislike

Graphic and disturbing content
Not suitable for children
Can be overwhelming

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located within Siriraj Hospital. The easiest way to get there is by taxi or ride-sharing app like Grab, as it's a bit of a journey from central Bangkok. You can also take a bus, but this might be more challenging for tourists. TikTok

Once you arrive at Siriraj Hospital, follow the signs for the medical museum. It's part of the hospital complex, so it's well-integrated. Ask hospital staff if you get lost; they are usually helpful. Reddit

From Sukhumvit, a taxi or Grab is your most direct option. It will likely take around 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. Public transport would involve multiple bus transfers or a combination of BTS/MRT and bus, which can be time-consuming. TikTok

Yes, you can use public transport, but it's less straightforward than a taxi. You might need to take the BTS Skytrain or MRT subway to a station like Saphan Taksin or Wongwian Yai and then catch a bus or a short taxi ride to the hospital. Reddit

It's not directly adjacent to the most popular tourist spots like the Grand Palace or Wat Arun. It's located on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River, so it's often visited as a dedicated trip rather than part of a quick city tour. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry fees are very affordable, typically around 200-300 THB for foreigners. It's a great value for the unique experience it offers. Instagram

No, advance booking is generally not required. You can purchase tickets at the museum entrance. However, it's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for any updates on ticketing procedures. Instagram

The museum is usually open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, but it is closed on Tuesdays. Always confirm the latest hours before your visit, as they can sometimes change. Instagram

This museum is definitely not for young children or those easily scared. It contains graphic medical specimens and forensic exhibits. It's best suited for adults or older teenagers interested in medical science and history. Instagram+1

While specific discounts can vary, it's always worth asking at the ticket counter if student or other discounts are available. Thai nationals often have different pricing. Instagram

🎫 🔬 Onsite Experience

The museum is divided into five main sections: Parasitology, Pathology, Anatomy, Forensics, and the History of Medicine. Each section offers a unique and often intense look at medical science and its impact. Instagram+1

Photography rules can be strict, especially regarding flash. While some visitors have shared photos, it's best to check the specific rules upon entry and be respectful of the exhibits and other visitors. Instagram

Most visitors spend between 1.5 to 3 hours exploring the museum, depending on their interest level and how much time they dedicate to each section. It can be quite overwhelming, so don't rush. Reddit

The nickname 'Museum of Death' comes from its extensive collection of preserved human specimens, pathological conditions, and forensic cases, which offer a stark look at mortality and disease. Instagram+1

While the exhibits are primarily display-based, the sheer detail and realism of the preserved specimens can be highly engaging. The Tsunami exhibition also offers a powerful narrative experience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, being part of a large hospital complex, there are several food courts and canteens within Siriraj Hospital that offer affordable Thai meals. You can also find local eateries in the surrounding area. TikTok

Generally, food and drinks are not allowed inside museums to protect the exhibits. There are usually designated areas where you can eat before or after your visit. Instagram

The food courts at Siriraj Hospital offer a wide variety of authentic Thai dishes, from noodle soups and curries to rice dishes and snacks. It's a great way to experience local flavors affordably. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary, but generally, flash photography is prohibited to protect the delicate specimens. Some areas might have specific restrictions. Always look for signage or ask staff. Instagram

The anatomical displays, particularly the preserved nervous system, and the historical medical instruments can be visually striking. The Tsunami exhibition also offers impactful imagery. InstagramReddit

The detailed anatomical preparations, like the entire human nervous system, are often highlighted. The historical medical equipment and displays of rare diseases also present unique photographic subjects. Instagram

A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial, as some areas might be dimly lit. A prime lens with a wide aperture can help capture details without flash. Instagram

Be mindful and respectful. While some creators share content, it's crucial to adhere to museum rules and consider the sensitive nature of the exhibits. Avoid intrusive photography. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Curious Explorers & Offbeat Travelers

If you're the type of traveler who seeks out the unusual and wants to experience something truly different, the Siriraj Medical Museum is a must-visit. It's a 'hidden gem' that offers a profound, albeit intense, educational experience far removed from typical tourist trails. InstagramReddit Embrace the 'weird' and 'morbid' aspects, and you'll leave with a unique story and a deeper understanding of medical science. Just be sure to mentally prepare yourself for the graphic nature of the exhibits.

Medical Students & Professionals

For those in the medical field, this museum is an invaluable resource. The detailed anatomical preparations and pathological specimens offer a tangible learning experience that textbooks can't replicate. Instagram+1 It's a chance to see rare conditions and historical medical practices firsthand, providing a unique perspective on the human body and the history of medicine. The forensic exhibits also offer insights relevant to medical-legal studies.

Budget-Conscious Travelers

The Siriraj Medical Museum is incredibly budget-friendly. The admission price is low, and the surrounding hospital complex offers very affordable food options at its canteens and food courts. TikTok It's an excellent way to have a substantial and memorable experience in Bangkok without breaking the bank, making it a perfect addition to an itinerary focused on value.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Five Sections

The Siriraj Medical Museum is a sprawling complex divided into five distinct areas, each offering a unique perspective on medical science. The Parasitology Museum delves into the world of internal and external parasites, showcasing their forms and the diseases they cause. It's a stark reminder of the microscopic threats to human health.

The Pathology Museum displays a wide array of diseased organs and tissues, illustrating the physical manifestations of various illnesses. This section is particularly graphic and educational for those interested in medical conditions.

The Anatomy Museum is home to some of the most impressive and rare exhibits, including a complete human nervous system dissection and detailed anatomical models. It’s a testament to the complexity of the human body. Instagram

The Forensic Museum focuses on criminal pathology and victim identification, featuring real cases and evidence. This section is particularly impactful, especially the exhibition detailing the aftermath and identification efforts following the 2004 Tsunami. Reddit

Finally, the History of Medicine Museum provides context on the evolution of medical practices in Thailand, highlighting key figures and advancements. Together, these sections create a comprehensive, albeit intense, educational experience.

The 'Museum of Death' Experience

The moniker 'Museum of Death' isn't an exaggeration; it's a direct reflection of the museum's content. Visitors are confronted with preserved human specimens, including fetuses with congenital abnormalities, diseased organs, and even mummified remains. This isn't for the squeamish, and many online discussions emphasize the need to be mentally prepared. Instagram+1

However, for those with a strong interest in medical science, anatomy, or forensic pathology, it's an unparalleled learning opportunity. The exhibits are presented factually, aiming to educate rather than shock, though the visual impact is undeniable. It offers a unique glimpse into the realities of disease, injury, and the human body's vulnerabilities, making it a truly 'off the beaten path' attraction in Bangkok. InstagramReddit

Beyond the Macabre: Historical Significance

While the preserved specimens often steal the show, the Siriraj Medical Museum also holds significant historical importance. It's part of Siriraj Hospital, one of Thailand's oldest and most prestigious medical institutions, founded in 1888. Instagram The museum itself, particularly the Congdon Anatomical Museum section, was established by Professor Edgar D. Congdon in 1927, a pioneer in modern anatomy education in Thailand. Instagram

Exploring the history section provides context for the development of modern medicine in the country. It showcases antique medical instruments, historical documents, and the evolution of surgical practices. This aspect adds another layer to the museum, demonstrating its role not just as a repository of medical oddities, but as a crucial educational and historical landmark in Thailand's medical landscape.

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