Royal Barges National Museum

Bangkok used to rely almost solely on its waterways for transportation routes. While some canals—called khlongs in Thai—are still lined with lively markets, and larger rivers are filled with water taxis, most of the city’s traffic happens on roads these days. But back in the Ayutthaya period, immense barges were used by the thousands. In later years, barges became relegated to ritualistic purposes, and grew even rarer after World War II. Visitors to the Royal Barges National Museum are granted a special glance into the opulent boats of eras past.
The displays contain useful information in English to accompany the collection of colorful barges. Viewers can observe the development of barge design throughout the different periods. These delicate boats are actually still used today, but only on very special occasions like royal processions. On that note, call ahead during November and December: sometimes barges are off display during these months, as they’re used for December’s Royal Barge Ceremony. Travellers usually enjoy seeing this museum as part of a long-tailed boat tour, which can be booked at one of Bangkok’s main piers.