Phuket Museums
Thalang National Museum
If you want to find out more about Phuket's history, including its archaeology, ethnology and art, head for the Thalang National Museum. In its two buidlings, the museum houses a large collection of ancient artefacts from Phuket's long history, as well as from the neighbouring provinces of Krabi and Phang Nga.
A display reconstructs the Battle of Thalang, when the Two Heroines led the people of Phuket in repelling a Burmese invasion. Other exhibits include a display of daily life during Phuket's tin-mining boom in the nineteenth century, and exhibits on the sea gypsies, the island's original inhabitants.
Getting there:
To get to there, take the road heading east (Paklok Road) from the Heroine's Monument. The museum is about 100m on the right.
Admission fee:
30 Baht for adults.
Children get in free of charge.
Opening times: 9.00 - 16.00 daily, except on national holidays.
Phuket Sea Shell Museum
The museum displays a large variety of sea shells and fossils, with an emphasis on shells found in Thai waters, which are highly prized by collectors. Although more like a large shell store, the displays are very interesting as well as beautiful. Among the museums exhibits are many rare or unique specimens, including one of the rarest golden pearls and the only left-handed Noble Volute. As its also a shop, you can buy some of these lovely shells which can make nice gifts.
Getting there:
The Phuket Sea Shell Museum is located on Wiset Road opposite the entrance to Evason Phuket Resort & Spa, between Chalong tand Rawai. You can't miss the large wentletrap shell out front.
Admission fee:
200 Baht per adult.
100 Baht per child.
Opening times: 08:00 - 19:00, except on national holidays.
