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TL;DR: Chao Khun Sophon Samakkhi Anusorn Museum is located at Wat Phra Non, Chong Kham Subdistrict, Mueang Mae Hong Son District, Mae Hong Son, Thailand, open Daily, hours Generally 08:00 – 17:00 (Temple hours).
Chao Khun Sophon Samakkhi Anusorn Museum
Open Days: Daily
Opening Hours: Generally 08:00 – 17:00 (Temple hours)
Chao Khun Sophon Samakkhi Anusorn Museum, located inside Wat Phra Non in Mae Hong Son Province, is a significant cultural and historical learning center that reflects the identity of the Tai Yai (Shan) community in depth. The museum is part of Wat Phra Non, an ancient temple closely tied to the founding history of Mae Hong Son. Visitors can experience history, traditions, beliefs, and long-standing cultural heritage all in one place.
Chao Khun Sophon Samakkhi Anusorn Museum is situated within Wat Phra Non, located at the foothill road leading up to Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu, one of the most important landmarks of Mae Hong Son. Wat Phra Non is an ancient temple directly connected to the establishment of the city. Historical records state that Phraya Singhanatracha, the first ruler of Mae Hong Son, built the reclining Buddha and vihara on Thursday, March 17, 1875, to commemorate his appointment as the ruler, reflecting the temple’s importance as the center of the community.
The reclining Buddha housed within the temple’s “Jong” (Tai Yai sacred structure) serves as the principal Buddha image and is the origin of the name “Wat Phra Non.” Phraya Singhanatracha, who was born on a Tuesday, constructed the reclining Buddha image for auspiciousness. The construction was later completed during the reign of Queen Miya, his consort, who succeeded him as ruler, reinforcing the temple’s deep connection with the local ruling lineage.
Wat Phra Non also serves as the ancestral temple of the Mae Hong Son rulers. The northern area of the temple grounds contains the ashes of every ruler of Mae Hong Son, highlighting its role as a central place of memory and history for the city.
Architecturally, Wat Phra Non is notable for its Tai Yai artistic style, particularly the old ordination hall, which is believed to have been built around 1926. It is one of the few remaining Tai Yai architectural heritage sites in northern Thailand that have been officially registered by the Fine Arts Department, making it an important artistic and cultural landmark.
Inside the “Jong,” a sacred building in Tai Yai tradition, a section has been designated as a museum known as the “Chao Khun Sophon Samakkhi Anusorn Museum.” It was established by Phra Bai Dika Sat Sasano, the 7th abbot of Wat Phra Non. He initiated the idea of systematically organizing valuable artifacts that were previously scattered throughout the temple to preserve them for future generations. The project began in 1989 and was completed on November 15, 1990.
The museum houses a wide range of valuable exhibits covering religion, art, and history. Highlights include royal relics granted by the Supreme Patriarch, numerous ancient Buddha amulets, golden Buddha images in various postures, five paired lotus-petal ceremonial objects, alms bowls, and religious utensils.
One of the most remarkable collections is the Tai Yai palm-leaf manuscripts known as “Pabsa,” some of which are over 300 years old. There are also bronze Vinaya manuscripts from Myanmar monks, reflecting the deep cultural and religious connections between Thailand and Myanmar.
Additional exhibits showcase cross-cultural influences and historical context, such as Japanese ceramic bowls, tea sets belonging to Mae Hong Son rulers, Burmese banknotes from the British colonial period, and items from World War II including equipment used by Japanese soldiers. These collections provide broader insight into regional history.
All artifacts are carefully preserved in glass cabinets with reinforced metal bars, a system designed by the abbot to ensure long-term protection. The bars are permanently fixed without keys to prevent theft and preserve the integrity of the collection.
Another distinctive feature of the museum is the handwritten labels for each artifact, written by the abbot himself. These descriptions provide detailed insights and reflect his personal experience, as he spent 8 years studying Buddhism in Myanmar and collected artifacts from both Thailand and Myanmar. Some items were also donated by devotees and preserved from the temple’s original collection.
The atmosphere around Wat Phra Non is peaceful and shaded, filled with the charm of Tai Yai culture. Visitors can explore the museum while appreciating the beauty of the temple, making it ideal for those interested in cultural tourism and local history.
Getting There Wat Phra Non is easily accessible from Mae Hong Son town center via the same route leading to Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu. The journey takes approximately 5–10 minutes. Visitors can travel by private car, motorcycle, or local transport.
| Place Name | Chao Khun Sophon Samakkhi Anusorn Museum |
| Overview | A museum inside Wat Phra Non featuring Tai Yai artifacts and the history of Mae Hong Son |
| Location | Wat Phra Non, Chong Kham Subdistrict, Mueang Mae Hong Son District, Mae Hong Son, Thailand |
| Entrance Fee | Free (Donations accepted) |
| Management | Wat Phra Non (Managed by resident monks) |
| Nearby Attractions | 1. Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu – 1 km 2. Chong Kham Lake – 2 km 3. Wat Chong Kham – 2 km 4. Mae Hong Son Walking Street – 2 km 5. Wat Hua Wiang – 3 km |
| Nearby Restaurants | 1. Salween River Restaurant – 2 km – Tel. 053611234 2. Fern Restaurant – 2 km – Tel. 053611567 3. Bai Fern Restaurant – 2 km – Tel. 053611890 4. Crossroads Restaurant – 2 km 5. Little Good Things Cafe – 3 km |
| Nearby Accommodations | 1. Imperial Mae Hong Son Resort – 3 km – Tel. 053684444 2. B2 Mae Hong Son Premier Hotel – 2 km – Tel. 052009161 3. Panorama Hotel – 2 km – Tel. 053611757 4. Sang Tong Huts – 3 km 5. Piya Guesthouse – 2 km |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Where is the Chao Khun Sophon Samakkhi Anusorn Museum located?
A: It is located inside Wat Phra Non in Mae Hong Son, near the road leading to Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu.
Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, entry is free, but donations are welcome.
Q: What are the highlights of the museum?
A: Tai Yai artifacts, golden Buddha images, and ancient manuscripts over 300 years old.
Q: How long should I spend visiting?
A: Around 1–2 hours is sufficient.
Q: Can I visit together with Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu?
A: Yes, both attractions are on the same route.
Category: ●Art, Culture and Heritage
Category: ●Group: ●Museums
Group: ●
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