Jim Thomson's House & Suan Pakkard Palace: A peek into traditional Thai architecture and antiquities
3.8
6 Ratings
Bangkok
Explore the Jim Thomson's House and Suan Pakkard Palace in Bangkok, Thailand. Discover traditional Thai architecture, ancient artifacts, and the fascinating history of the Thai silk industry.
Duration: 3 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Jim Thompson House - This jungly compound is the former home of the eponymous American silk entrepreneur and art collector. Born in Delaware in 1906, Thompson briefly served in the Office of Strategic Services (the forerunner of the CIA) in Thailand during WWII. He settled in Bangkok after the war, when his neighbours’ handmade silk caught his eye and piqued his business sense; he sent samples to fashion houses in Milan, London and Paris, gradually building a steady worldwide clientele.
What's Included
  • Entrance Fees Included
  • Expert Local Guide
  • Hotel Pickup & Drop-off (Selected Hotels Only)
What's Not Included
  • Beverages, bottled water, snacks
  • Gratuities (Optional)
Additional Information

The Jim Thompson House, a museum once the residence of American Jim Thompson, is nestled in the center of Bangkok. This museum comprises six traditionally designed Thai homes made of teak wood, encircled by a beautifully-maintained lush garden. The museum showcases an array of predominantly Southeast Asian art that Jim Thompson amassed. The James H.W. Thompson Foundation presently supervises the house, with a commitment to maintaining the structure and its array of art pieces.

Jim Thompson is credited with rejuvenating the Thai silk trade. The house displays various silk production tools and informative boards detailing the process of silk worm cultivation, spinning, and weaving.

The Suan Pakkard Palace, once the dwelling of Prince Paripatra, now serves as a museum in Bangkok, Thailand. Situated on Sri Ayutthaya Road, to the south of the Victory Monument, displays a variety of Thai ancient artworks, including the over 4,000-year-old Ban Chiang pottery.

  • Hotel pick up may be 30-60 minutes prior to tour Start time/Departure time (depending on hotel location).
  • Ladies must wear a skirt or sarong (no pants or shorts) that covers your shoulders and knees for visiting Suan Pakkard Palace
  • Men must wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees for visiting Suan Pakkard Palace.
  • There are facilities to borrow suitable clothing if required.
  • At least 2 people are required for this activity to take place. Single traveler may book this product, but is subject to availability and cancellation if minimum number of people is not met on the activity day.
Location
Jim Thompson House
6, Soi Kasem San 2, Rama 1 Road, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
3.8
(6 Ratings)
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 star
Diannac308
Aug 4, 2022
Not to be missed. Good 35 minute introduction then time to wander the grounds - The architecture, the story of Jim Thomson and the art make this well worth visiting, even on a hot steamy day. The gardens are very photogenic. I would suggest it’s not a place for families with your children as you have to take care and are asked to put anything larger than a small purse into a locker.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Young
Jul 31, 2022
Aren't you curious about the successes and misfortunes of a passionate man? - With the guide's rich knowledge, the tour was really fun and exciting. I definitely recommend it to everyone at least once. Photography is prohibited indoors and is filled with the treasures he has collected. Personally, it was one of the most exciting times of my visit to Thailand. After the tour, it's good to stop by the souvenir shop to buy something, but it's not cheap. It is good to stop by on the way to or back from ICONSIAM, and it is convenient to use both taxis and BTS.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jdafranca
Mar 22, 2019
A bubble in the city - When you arrive it is like change to another place, coming from the noise and confusion.... Suddenly you can hear the water and little birds and forget the pollution... The guide visit is very well organized and the story of Jim Thompson is incredible. If you come to BKK is mandatory come and visit!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Aphiradee
Aug 2, 2019
No parking , park at Holiday Inn - Supposed to have TukTuk picked up but was told that we had to walk to Jim Thomson . Do not listen to the hotel staffs, these was Tuk Tuk - Just wait . I saw Tuk Tuk (Jim Thomson) and I just needed to let them know that I wanted a ride . Overall tour is good, like good to know. Houses are very nice and very well kept. Garden is beautiful. I like it here.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jim_f
Nov 20, 2022
Beautiful, but a bit boring! - Jim Thompson’s home was a beautiful and well-cared-for complex. My disappointment had most to do with how limited the shop was in inventory. The Suan Pakkard Palace was nice, but rather boring. Our guide, Luck, and driver were very helpful. And the Thompson house guide was excellent. More information and Thai-style architecture would have helped.
Review provided by Viator
Thepeter1
Oct 29, 2018
200 Baht - you can have a guided Tour at Jim Thompson House for 200 Baht (approx. 6 Dollar - 5 Eur) - Tour is english, french, Thai etc.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Select Date and Tickets
minimum 2 guests
-
up to 15 guests
2 Adult
June 2024
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Today