Bangkok is home to a wide variety of museums with some exhibiting very sublime and unique collections of relics which afford a wonderful insight into the interesting rich culture and unique heritage of Thailand. Some museums such as the Bangkok Folk Museum, Jim Thompson's House and Kamthieng House have buildings just as fascinating as their contents. Offering an unparalleled introduction to the country’s architecture and art is the National Museum of Bangkok which houses collections that span every period of Thai history.
An essential stop for the budding stamp enthusiasts is the Philatelic Museum. Established in 1947, the museum illustrates how the postal service developed in the country. Exhibiting local and foreign stamps, dating back to the 1880s, the museum is bound to please art and history enthusiasts as well. Since every stamp is a miniature work of art and a paper-thin slice of history, it is best to keep a magnifying glass handy when visiting the museum.
Those who consider letters, which are quite an old mode of communication, as more heart-felt will find the Philatelic Museum to be a wonderful place taking them on a journey back in time with stamps that narrate stories of times long gone.
For more discerning philatelists, the museum’s library contains an interesting collection of stamp books in foreign and Thai languages. Tracing the history of the postal service in Thailand, each stamp encapsulates a certain time and event. A special edition called Phra Pak Phin printed in 1897 can also be found at the museum. This is said to be a rare sample as this type of stamp which carried the portrait of King Rama V was destroyed due to the fact that its design was deemed unacceptable.
Visitors will encounter various stamp editions commemorating several significant events in Thai history such as the Asian Games, the forerunner to SEA Games and the South East Asian Peninsular Games.
To enhance your stay in the city, you can opt to stay at one of the 5 star hotels in Bangkok. One such luxury hotel is Anantara Bangkok Riverside. Ideally set on the banks of the charming Chao Phraya River, this exceptional Bangkok resort seamlessly blends the serene charms of tropical luxury with the thrill of urban living.
