Ban Jang Nak Museum

Rating: 4/5 (5 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08:00–17:00

 

Ban Jang Nak Museum in Chiang Mai is one of the most distinctive local museums in Northern Thailand, celebrated for its mastery of traditional Lanna woodcarving. The museum is filled with countless hand-carved wooden elephants, each crafted with exceptional skill by local artisans. Over the years, it has become a cultural landmark where visitors can learn about Lanna craftsmanship, elephant symbolism, and the deep connection between Thai culture and these majestic animals.

 

The museum was founded in 1985 by master woodcarver “Sala Phet Wiriya,” who was passionate about preserving and passing on the art of Lanna woodcarving. He gathered fellow craftsmen, students, and apprentices from the community, forming a small collective dedicated to keeping traditional techniques alive. What began as a humble workshop gradually grew into a full-fledged museum that now attracts art lovers and travelers from around the world.

 

In 1988, the well-known columnist Prayoon Janyawong from the Thai Rath newspaper visited the workshop and gave it the name “Ban Jang Nak.” In Northern Thai dialect, “jang” means elephant and “nak” means many—so the name translates to “The House of Many Elephants,” perfectly capturing the museum’s unique identity.

 

One of the key features that made Ban Jang Nak famous is its innovative approach to elephant woodcarving. Traditionally, elephant carvings had fixed poses, but the artisans here developed more lifelike forms—showing elephants walking in procession, playing in water, grazing, or expressing tender moments between mother and calf. These dynamic carvings became the museum’s signature style and set a new standard for Lanna woodcraft.

 

The museum also pioneered the use of local materials, such as “ironwood,” to replace teak, which has become increasingly scarce. Ironwood is tougher and more challenging to carve, but when finished, it reveals natural tones and textures that make each sculpture uniquely beautiful. Ban Jang Nak also incorporates traditional techniques like dyeing wood with “black myrobalan” (used in fabric dyeing), resulting in natural, eco-friendly colors that enhance the craft.

 

Inside the museum, visitors are greeted by an impressive display of wooden elephants in various sizes and emotions. Some are arranged in thematic groups, while others showcase the delicacy of the artisans’ techniques. Many pieces reveal personal stories, experiments with new materials, and award-winning works that mark important milestones in the museum’s journey.

 

The outdoor area is equally captivating, decorated with carved elephant heads and large-scale sculptures that create a striking backdrop for photographs. Visitors may even encounter artisans working on new pieces, offering a rare glimpse into the process behind traditional Lanna woodcarving.

 

In 2003, Ban Jang Nak was officially recognized as a private local museum, further boosting its reputation as an important cultural and artistic hub. Travelers, art students, and collectors often visit not only to enjoy the artwork but also to understand the deeper message behind it—raising awareness about the conservation of Thai elephants through the lens of art.

 

Getting There is simple: From Chiang Mai city, follow the Chiang Mai–San Kamphaeng Road toward Buak Khang Subdistrict, approximately 18–20 km from the city center. The museum is best reached by private car, taxi, or chartered songthaew, and can easily be combined with a cultural route to Bo Sang Handicraft Village, MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum, San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, or Muang On Cave.

 

 

A: It is ideal for travelers who love woodcarving, Lanna art, Thai elephant culture, handicrafts, and immersive cultural experiences.

 

A: A typical visit takes 45–60 minutes, but art enthusiasts may enjoy staying 1–1.5 hours to appreciate the details.

 

A: Yes, photography is allowed in most areas. However, visitors should avoid touching the artworks to preserve their condition.

 

A: No official ticket fee is required. Visitors may leave donations to support the museum and artisans.

 

A: Absolutely. The museum pairs well with Bo Sang Handicraft Village, MAIIAM Museum, San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, and Muang On Cave for a full-day cultural trip.