Maha Viravong Museum Korat: Buddhist Art and Khmer Sculptures

The Maha Viravong National Museum (Thai: พิพิธภัณฑ์มหาวีรวงศ์) is located inside the compound of Wat Sutthajinda, in Muang district, Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat). It sits in front of Klang Plaza 2, near the Pizza Company restaurant, right in the heart of the city, about 300 metres from the Thao Suranaree statue (Ya Mo).

The museum is tucked behind the King Rama IX Commemorative Library (public library). It is a one-storey building constructed in a contemporary Thai-style house design. Small, quiet, and easy to miss, but well worth the detour.

History of the Collection

The museum was officially opened on 24 June 1954. The core collection consists of objects that belonged to Somdej Phra Maha Viravong, the former abbot of Wat Sutthajinda, who donated them to the Fine Arts Department to preserve and share Thailand’s cultural heritage.

Don’t let the modest size fool you. The museum is essentially one large room, but every item inside is exceptional, Khmer-period sculptures, bronze Buddhas, ancient ceramics, lacquerware, and rare Buddhist manuscripts. If you appreciate Thai art and Isaan archaeology, this is a must-visit.

The Royal Chair

One of the most remarkable objects on display is a ceremonial chair used by both King Rama V and King Rama IX during their respective visits to Nakhon Ratchasima. Seeing a single piece of furniture that connected two reigns separated by decades is oddly moving.

Khmer Stone Sculpture

All labels are written in both Thai and English, which is unusual and very welcome for a provincial museum of this size.

Practical Information

Open: Wednesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (closed Monday and Tuesday)
Admission: 50 THB for foreigners, 10 THB for Thai nationals
Address: Wat Sutthajinda, Muang District, Nakhon Ratchasima
Getting there: On foot from the Thao Suranaree monument (~300 m), or by songthaew from the city centre