This has to be Chiang Mai’s quirkiest, and in many ways most interesting, museum. It’s unique in the world and a must-see for anyone curious about Nature’s mysterious ways.
The collection was assembled by Manop Rattanarithikul, and it’s worth checking out his website to read the endearing story of how his collection began with a vulture’s egg given to him by his grandmother.
All around the entrance are examples of petrified wood and other natural wonders, and the weird insects on display number over 10,000 species, including over 400 species of mosquito found in Thailand alone. As you walk round, it becomes obvious that this is a labor of love and that the owner is totally obsessed with the marvelous creatures to be found on our planet.
Note particularly those stick insects and others that look like dried leaves, an ideal form of camouflage against predators. All specimens are displayed in well-lit cabinets and are clearly labeled, so a visit becomes not only an interesting take on the natural world about us, but an educational experience too.
Getting There
The museum is on Sirimangkalajan Road to the west of the Old City; it’s best to hop on a tuk-tuk to get there unless you are staying in this part of town, in which case you could walk.
Need to Know
- What is it? A museum displaying a fantastic range of insects and other oddities of Nature.
- When to go: Any time; they don’t close for holidays.
- Don’t Miss: The butterfly collection, which includes examples of species that are now extinct.
- Address/Website: 72 Nimmanheimin Soi 13; Museum Website.
- Opening hours: 09:00-17:00 daily
- Entrance fees: Adults 300B; children 200B.