National Museum

National Museum Review

To get a sense of the region's art, visit the National Museum, a mansion built in 1923 for the prince who ruled Nan, Chao Suriyapong Pharittadit. The house itself is a work of art, a synthesis of overlapping red roofs, forest green doors and shutters, and brilliant white walls. There's a fine array of wood and bronze Buddha statues, musical instruments, ceramics, and other works of Lanna art. The revered "black elephant tusk" is also an attraction. The 3-foot-long, 40-pound tusk is actually dark brown in color, but that doesn't detract at all from its special role as a local good luck charm.