Baandam Museum
The Baandam museum has over 40 black-colored houses created by the Thai artist Thawan Duchanee.
These houses consist of wooden structures in either Thai or Burmese style, along with the artist's extensive collection of animal skins and bones. Contrary to popular belief, there is no religious meaning behind the black houses; they exist purely for artistic merit. ``` 
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Things to do at The Black House
The estate houses over 40 small galleries scattered around its tranquil gardens. However, many appear to be off-limits to tourists. Nevertheless, if you're interested in the artist's exploration of organic work, there's plenty to see here.
Thawan Duchanee’s Black Houses will keep many visitors who appreciate this form of art and surroundings engaged for a few hours. Small catering stalls are available near the main house for tourists.
Please note that visitors are expected to wear a facemask inside the museum.
Directions to the Black House in Chiang Rai
The Baandam Museum (Black House) is located 10km north of Chiang Rai.
Bus: Take a public bus heading north from Chiang Rai. Ask the driver if they pass by the Baandam Museum. The fare should be around 50 baht. The bus will drop you off on Highway 1 near a side road. You will need to walk the remaining 500 or so meters yourself.
To return, cross over the highway and flag down any passing buses or songthaews. The main buses usually pass by every 40-60 minutes.
Motorbike: This is probably the easiest option aside from a tour. Rent a motorbike from either Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai. Take Highway 1 north of Chiang Rai. Once you pass the large university, start to slow down and look out for signs on the left after about 1.5km. You might notice a sign saying "Thawan Duchanee", but keep going until you get to a wooden road sign saying "13". This is the street number the museum is located on. Follow this road and you'll come across a blue sign in Thai - take a left here and you'll spot a black house up ahead.
The full address and contact details of the Baandam Museum.
333 Moo 13 Nang-Lae, Muang, Chiang Rai, 57100 Thailand.
Contact Us: Tel/Fax : (66) 53 - 776 - 333 Mobile: (66) 83 - 336 - 5333
email: [email protected]
Opening hours: 9am to 12pm and from 1pm to 5pm every day.
Cost: 80 Baht for both foreigners and locals.
