Wattanothaipayup School Education Museum

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Open Days: Monday – Friday

Opening Hours: 08.00–16.00

 

Wattanothaipayup School Education Museum is located inside the Watthana Building of Wattanothaipayup School, Hai Ya Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai Province. This small yet meaningful museum plays an important role in preserving educational history and collective memory of Chiang Mai. Established in 2006 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the school, the museum aims to conserve and promote Lanna arts, culture, and local wisdom while serving as a learning center for students, researchers, and the general public interested in the historical development of education in Northern Thailand.

 

A major highlight that elevates the significance of this museum is the royal grace it received when Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn graciously presided over the official opening ceremony. According to the school’s historical records, the opening took place on August 3, 2006. This royal presence transformed the museum into more than an internal school exhibition space, making it a shared cultural landmark that connects educational institutions with the broader historical narrative of Chiang Mai and Lanna society.

 

Inside the museum, visitors will find exhibitions that skillfully balance national and local history. Displays include information about the kings of the Chakri Dynasty, the former rulers of Chiang Mai, as well as valuable historical documents, photographs, and school records. These materials collectively illustrate the evolution of education, social change, and everyday life across different periods, offering visitors a concise yet insightful journey through time.

 

Understanding the background of Wattanothaipayup School further enriches the museum experience. The school holds historical importance as the first government girls’ school in Chiang Mai Province. It officially opened on March 25, 1906, following the royal initiative of Chao Inthawarorot Suriyawong, the eighth ruler of Chiang Mai. At a time when educational opportunities for women were limited, he envisioned a formal institution dedicated to educating young girls, marking a significant step toward social progress in Lanna society.

 

In its early years, arrangements were made to use Khum Chao Ruen Kham on Mae Kha Road as the school’s first location. The school received royal patronage, with Mrs. Obchoei appointed as the first headmistress. On the opening day, 70 students were enrolled, a modest number that nonetheless symbolized the beginning of transformative change in women’s education in Northern Thailand.

 

Visiting the Wattanothaipayup School Education Museum offers a refreshing alternative for travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Chiang Mai beyond temples and cafés. The museum reveals how the city has grown upon a strong educational foundation, making it an ideal stop for those interested in cultural heritage, local history, and social development. Its location in the Hai Ya area also allows visitors to easily combine their visit with nearby cultural landmarks around the old city.

 

Getting There Visitors traveling by private car can search for “Wattanothaipayup School” and enter the school grounds to reach the Watthana Building. Parking is available within the school area, though visitors should allow time for contacting staff at the entrance, especially during school hours. For public transportation, red songthaews, taxis, or ride-hailing services can drop visitors directly at the school entrance, followed by a short walk inside to the museum building.

 

 

A: The museum is open from Monday to Friday on official working days.

 

A: The museum is open from 08.00 to 16.00.

 

A: No, admission is free of charge.

 

A: Yes, groups are advised to contact the school in advance to arrange a suitable visiting time.

 

A: It is located in the Watthana Building inside Wattanothaipayup School, Hai Ya Subdistrict, Chiang Mai.

 

A: It preserves rare educational records and documents while highlighting the history of the first government girls’ school in Chiang Mai.