Nang Yai Museum
About This Museum
Tucked away in the historic heart of Phetchaburi, the Nang Yai Museum at Wat Plubplachai is a true hidden gem dedicated to a vanishing Thai art form. This isn't your typical quiet museum; it feels more like stepping into a master artisan's workshop where the walls are lined with intricate, larger-than-life leather puppets. You can almost hear the ghost of a performance in the air, with the clacking of bamboo and the storyteller's chant. It’s an intimate and utterly captivating look at a piece of living cultural heritage.
Collection Highlights
The stars of the show are the 'Nang Yai' puppets themselves—some standing over two meters tall, meticulously carved from a single piece of leather to depict characters from the Ramakien epic. Look closely at their perforated details, which would have cast beautiful shadows when performed against a backlit screen. The museum also preserves the original bamboo poles used by dancers to manipulate these heavy figures during a show.
Visitor Information
Finding it is part of the adventure—it's located within the temple grounds, so keep an eye out for signs. While hours can be informal, it's best to visit during daylight hours. The local monks or caretakers are often happy to share stories if you show genuine interest.
Architecture & Building
Housed in a traditional Thai-style pavilion or 'sala' right within the temple complex, the building itself is simple and unassuming, with an open-air design that lets the tropical breeze flow through.
Contact & Location
Address: เพชรบุรี, หัวสะพาน, อำเภอเมืองเพชรบุรี, จังหวัดเพชรบุรี, 76000, ประเทศไทย
Phone: +66 65 078 8848
