Visit Muang Boran (Ancient City) (Bangkok)

Located in Samut Prakan, a little over 30 km south of Bangkok, Ancient City — or Muang Boran in Thai (which literally means “Ancient City”) — is a vast open-air park that recreates Thailand’s most famous monuments, temples, and palaces, with a particular emphasis on temples, as well as a few from neighboring countries. There are also several original creations that you will only find here, along with a replica of an old floating market.

Muang Boran was created by Lek Viriyaphant, a Thai patron and culture enthusiast, who is also the founder of the Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya. His goal was to preserve the memory of Thailand’s heritage and make it accessible in a single location, while also perpetuating traditional construction techniques. It is, in a way, the best of Thailand’s monuments gathered in one place. And it must be said that the work is remarkable, especially the life-size reconstructions. In good weather, the site — which can be visited by bicycle (which I recommend), tram (a 1.5-hour tour), or golf cart (paid rental) — is very photogenic. Even if it remains somewhat artificial and obviously cannot replace visits to the real monuments, it is very pleasant to cycle around the park. From my point of view, it makes a good introduction to what you will see at the beginning of a trip to Thailand. Allow at least half a day to visit Ancient City, as there is so much to see.

What you can see at Muang Boran

• Reproductions of historic monuments: the Grand Palace of Ayutthaya, Phimai Temple, the Pavilion of King Rama IX, and the ruins of Sukhothai.
• Canals, gardens, and lakes: reminiscent of Thailand’s natural geography.
• Traditional houses: stilt houses, floating markets, and mythological sculptures.
• Spectacular photo spots: the Gate of Heaven, the Elephant Pavilion, and the replica of Preah Vihear Temple.
• Royal barges.
• Domestic elephants, but even though rides on their backs have been discontinued, this is clearly not why I recommend going there.

Please note that although Muang Boran is open until after nightfall, few monuments are lit up. So if you are hoping to take beautiful night photos, as I did during my second visit, you may be a bit disappointed — even though the few illuminated monuments are magnificent. While the tram tour can be a good introduction to visiting Muang Boran, it remains very limited, with only four 20-minute stops during a 1.5-hour tour. It would be a real shame to limit yourself to this mode of visit alone, as it feels rushed and does not allow you to see everything. However, as a way to get your bearings before renting a bike to explore the site more thoroughly and at a relaxed pace, it can be worth starting with.Often the visit of Ancient City is combined with Erawan Museum a few kilometers before.