This small, privately run and attractively laid-out museum displays the history of the opium trade, which flourished in the infamous Golden Triangle. It covers the basics of opium production and also the dangers of opium addiction.

The history of opium use is carefully documented, with a number of showcases filled with the paraphernalia necessary for processing and smoking the drug. The scientific base of the drug and its effects are explained, as are the methods of growing the poppies and extracting heroin from the opium paste.

Opium pipes, scales and weights, the tools used for planting and harvesting the crop once essential to the economy of this small border town, and many other vintage exhibits bring the history of the region to life, as do many old polychrome photographs and maps of the opium plantations.

The museum also displays artifacts and information about the Paduang, a local hill tribe heavily involved in the production and distribution of the drug until the Thai government intervened in the late 20th century.

The museum also has an interesting website, though it appears the writer of its content smoked one pipe too many before starting, as the English is unorthodox to say the least.

Due to its location in Sop Ruak, right beside the ‘Golden Triangle’ signboards, this museum attracts far more visitors than the more elaborate Hall of Opium just a kilometer up the road.

By bus or taxi from Mae Sai (20 minutes), or by tuk-tuk, songthaew or moto-taxi from Chiang Saen (20 to 30 minutes).

  • What is it? An intelligent look at an infamous trade.
  • Opening hours: 07:00 to 19:00, daily.
  • Entrance fee: 50 baht.
  • Website: www.houseofopium.com
  • Where: Ban Sop Ruak, 212, Moo 1, Tambon Wiang, about one kilometer from town on the Mae Sai road or nine kilometers from Chiang Saen.