Rating: 3.3/5 (6 votes)

Open Days: Open daily

Opening Hours: 08:00–17:00

 

Chiang Mai Doll Museum and Chiang Mai Doll Factory is located in Dong Khilek Village, Makham Luang Subdistrict, San Pa Tong District, surrounded by the peaceful countryside of Chiang Mai. Set inside a traditional Thai wooden house converted into a charming exhibition space, the museum features tens of thousands of dolls ranging from traditional Thai costumes, northern Lanna outfits, hill-tribe attire, and classical dance costumes to a vast international collection from various countries around the world. Visitors stepping inside are greeted with a warm old-style Thai atmosphere while being immersed in a world of delicate craftsmanship.

 

The Chiang Mai Doll Factory began as a family-run doll workshop producing export-quality handmade dolls. Over time, the passion for doll-making expanded into a full museum, officially established in 1986. The founder, Khun Yuttaya Boonprakhong, developed the factory into one of Northern Thailand’s most remarkable cultural attractions, where visitors of all ages can explore doll artistry up close, learn about cultural costumes, and appreciate the storytelling behind each piece.

 

Inside the museum, rows of glass cabinets display an impressive variety of dolls: classical Thai Khon characters, Ramakien battle scenes between deities and giants, traditional Thai costumes, Lanna outfits, hill-tribe clothing, and many more. International dolls from Japan, Africa, Israel, Europe, and the Middle East add a global dimension to the collection, reflecting the cultural interests of the museum’s founder and offering visitors a cross-cultural experience through miniature art.

 

One of the highlights is the Ramakien Khon doll collection, featuring exquisitely detailed costumes inspired by traditional Thai performing arts. Each piece is crafted with meticulous care, presenting miniature versions of elaborate headdresses, masks, and silk costumes. Other sets depict Thai rural life—market vendors, rice harvesting scenes, temple fairs, and ceremonial processions—providing younger visitors a simple and engaging way to learn about Thai culture through storytelling dolls.

 

The exhibition area connects directly to the working doll factory, where visitors can observe artisans shaping doll parts, painting faces, attaching hair, assembling limbs, and sewing costumes. Every doll is crafted by hand, requiring patience, precision, and artistic skill. This behind-the-scenes experience helps visitors appreciate the craftsmanship that made Chiang Mai dolls known internationally.

 

The Chiang Mai Doll Museum is also an excellent destination for school trips, university groups, and craft enthusiasts. In addition to viewing the collections, visitors can learn about the history of doll-making, costume design, and cultural influences from various regions. At certain times, small workshops or discussions with staff may be available, adding a practical learning element to the visit.

 

The surrounding environment maintains the peaceful charm of Chiang Mai’s rural outskirts, with shady trees and quiet grounds for rest. Many visitors combine a trip to the doll museum with sightseeing in San Pa Tong or nearby Lamphun. It is a family-friendly attraction, suitable for craft lovers, culture seekers, and travelers looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences near Chiang Mai.

 

Inside the complex, a souvenir shop sells factory-made dolls as well as handmade items from local artisans such as fabric crafts, home décor, and small accessories. It is an ideal stop for purchasing handmade souvenirs representing Northern Thailand’s artistic heritage.

 

Basic facilities include parking spaces, staff guides who provide background information on the museum’s collections, and occasional demonstrations of doll-making processes. Group visits can arrange guided tours in advance to ensure a complete experience, especially for students or cultural-learning groups.

 

Getting There: From Chiang Mai city, take Highway 108 (Chiang Mai–Hot Road) toward San Pa Tong District. At approximately kilometer marker 23, turn left onto Ban Rai Road and continue for about 5 kilometers into Dong Khilek Village. The total distance is around 25–30 kilometers, taking about 40–45 minutes by private car. The route is fully paved and easy to navigate. There is no public bus service directly to the museum, so private cars or chartered transportation are the most convenient options.

 

 

A: The museum is generally open daily from 08:00 to 17:00, though visitors are encouraged to check for updates during holidays or special periods.

 

A: Admission is usually free, making it a great family-friendly attraction. Some special programs may have small fees, so checking beforehand is recommended.

 

A: Yes. Visitors can watch artisans at work in the production area, including face painting, costume sewing, and assembly. Availability may vary depending on workshop schedules.

 

A: A general visit takes around one hour, but those who enjoy detailed viewing, photos, and browsing the souvenir shop may wish to spend 1.5–2 hours.

 

A: No public bus reaches the museum directly. Private cars, chartered two-row trucks (songthaews), or hired vehicles from Chiang Mai city are the most convenient options.