The Lanna Architecture Centre occupies Khum Chao Burirat in the heart of Chiang Mai’s Old City. Also called KHUM Museum, it combines a historic nobleman’s residence with exhibitions about the region’s architectural heritage, making the building itself a central part of the visit.
The centre is managed by Chiang Mai University’s Faculty of Architecture. Its location near the meeting of Ratchadamnoen and Phra Pok Klao Roads makes it easy to include in an Old City walk, with time to look at both the house and the displays inside.
The historic Khum Chao Burirat residence
The house blends Lanna domestic architecture with Western colonial influences. Its masonry ground floor and timber upper storey create a different impression from the raised wooden rural houses seen elsewhere in the region.
Brickwork, arches and the veranda
Look at the columns and arches on the ground floor, then compare them with the wooden upper level and balcony. The transition between materials is one of the clearest ways to understand the building’s mixed architectural character.
The veranda and surrounding grounds also help you appreciate how the residence sits within its site. Allow a few minutes outside before entering, so the exhibition information connects with features you have already noticed.
Rooms and domestic details
The upper floor includes former domestic spaces and displays of period household items. These give the house a human context, showing it as a residence with its own history as well as an example of regional design.
Follow the current visitor route and any restrictions on rooms or furnishings. Historic stairs and thresholds can affect access, so contact the centre beforehand if your visit depends on reaching the upper storey without steps.
Exhibitions about Lanna architecture
The displays help explain architectural history, conservation and the relationship between heritage buildings and the present-day city. Models, photographs and other interpretation can make it easier to recognise features when you continue walking around Chiang Mai.
Models and historic buildings
Scale models provide an overview of structures whose full layout is harder to appreciate while standing inside them. Compare those representations with the photographs and with the house around you, looking for differences in roof form, materials and the use of open space.
You do not need specialist architectural knowledge to enjoy the visit. Choose a few details that interest you and use them as a starting point for noticing other houses and temples around the Old City.
Changing displays and activities
The ground floor also supports rotating exhibitions and cultural activities. The subject of a temporary display may change, so check the current programme if you are travelling for a particular exhibition.
Group visits can be arranged in advance through the centre. Confirm any guided component, language and timing when booking, as a general admission ticket does not guarantee a scheduled tour.
Exhibition hours and admission
The official exhibition schedule is Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to noon and 1pm to 4pm, with Monday closures. The noon break is reserved for the audiovisual equipment, so plan your indoor visit outside that interval.
The published admission schedule lists 50 baht for Thai general visitors and 100 baht for foreign general visitors. Eligible students and visitors aged 60 or over have separate concession rates, and some categories qualify for free entry; bring identification and confirm the applicable rate at reception.
Allow roughly 45 minutes to an hour for the house and displays. A longer visit may suit a particular exhibition, while a short stop can focus on the building and a few key architectural comparisons.
Getting there in the Old City
The centre is at 117 Ratchadamnoen Road, Phra Sing, Chiang Mai 50200, near the intersection with Phra Pok Klao Road. Use the KHUM Museum or Khum Chao Burirat name as well as Lanna Architecture Centre when arranging a taxi or songthaew.
Walking is practical from nearby Old City attractions, including Wat Phan Tao and Wat Chedi Luang. The museum is in the city-centre historic house, so a drop-off at Chiang Mai University’s main campus would leave you at a different location.
Lanna Architecture Centre FAQs
Is this the Lanna Traditional House Museum?
They are separate museums. The architecture centre is in Khum Chao Burirat on Ratchadamnoen Road, while the traditional house collection occupies a different compound beside Canal Road.
What are the visitor hours?
Exhibitions are normally open Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to noon and 1pm to 4pm. Mondays are closed, and the midday break should be allowed for when planning the visit.
Is admission free?
General admission is charged, with published rates of 50 baht for Thai visitors and 100 baht for foreign visitors. Concessions and exemptions depend on eligibility, so bring supporting identification and check at reception.
What is the main attraction?
The historic residence is part of the experience, alongside displays explaining Lanna architecture. Compare its masonry lower floor, timber upper storey and veranda, then use the exhibits to understand the wider heritage context.
How long should you spend there?
Around 45 minutes to an hour suits a general visit. Allow extra time if a temporary exhibition interests you, and book ahead if you want to arrange a group visit.
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