Bangkok’s Forensic Pathology Museum
A behind the scene look at crime scene investigation
Experience
Forensic Pathology is the side of pathology that helps determine the cause of death by examining the corpse. The Siriraj Medical Museum (coined the “Museum of Death”), is found within the Siriraj Hospital. Located in Bangkok, Thailand, this mega-museum is home to several smaller medical museums – two of which focus primarily on the science of forensic pathology!
This was not something that would have been on my radar at all. Although some are magnificent, I often find many museums to be a little dry for my tastes, and even the word museum might send me walking in the other direction. I’d much rather explore the sites in which their artifacts originate! This museum, of course, is a little more challenging in that respect. I don’t think there’s ever been a scenario where I’d rather jump the police line of a crime scene to get a closer look at what’s going on. It’s just not my cup of tea (and all the power to you if it’s yours!). The science of forensic pathology I find fascinating mind you, and I used to spend countless hours watching CSI Las Vegas when it was at its pinnacle on the airwaves. That helped formulate my primary spark of interest in this particular museum.
Upon entering this wing of the first section (Ellis Pathological Museum), you are welcomed by some fairly tame displays, illustrating the history of forensic pathology in Thailand. I must forewarn you that almost everything written in this area is in Thai. Just through the displays alone, you can see just how far the technology has advanced, and the long standing history that has existed here in Thailand.
The next room is one that is not for the squeamish. It is a room filled with pre-natal cadavers. Most of them had varying defects which caused them to die before birth. They have all been preserved in plastic encasings and are on display on podiums around the room. One might think this is morbid, but it is through the research done on these corpses, that forensic pathology is able to help understand these complications, and help in preventing similar situations in the future. The most interesting, in my own opinion, was the genetic mutation of one of them which caused the fetus to develop with two heads.
Following this, there are several more rooms of various themes. One of the rooms focuses on heart complications. Another corridor focuses on head traumas, with display cases of the skulls in which the forensic pathology research was performed (with photographs of the heads prior to the research above them). There was also a room dedicated to the victims of the 2004 Tsunami which devastated much of South East Asia! It is a darkly lit room, with a mannequin reenactment of the chaos that ensued during the forensic pathology investigations which were taking place around the clock during the aftermath.
The following section (now entering the Songkran Niyomsane Forensic Medicine Museum) is said to contain one of the highlights of the whole medical museum. It is curiously placed nonchalantly amidst the endless shelves of past evidence, skulls, mummified cadavers and other pieces from the forensic pathology investigations.
Who was the serial killer in the Siriraj Medical Museum?
The highlight is the remains of Thailand’s first serial killer of modern history, Si Ouey Sae Urng, known also as “Si Quey”. He was a cannibal who preyed on children in the 1950s. Though execution is not common place in modern Thailand, at the age of 31, he underwent a trial, received a death sentence, and was ultimately executed by a firing squad in 1959. Following his demise, Si Ouey’s body was preserved and utilized for medical experiments before being embalmed and exhibited at the Siriraj Medical Museum in Bangkok.
SEE – Photos & Videos
Disclaimer: There are some graphic photographs in this post and may not be suitable for all audiences.
- Back to Top
GO – Getting There
This can be a bit tricky. Located on the river’s edge, the Siriraj Hospital is not on the BTS (sky train) or MRT (subway) routes. You could hire a taxi, or tuk tuk, though it may cost you a pretty penny. If you’re looking for a bit of an adventure, and are on a backpacker’s budget, you can take the Chao Phraya ferry to the Tha Rot Fai pier (also called Tha Bangkok Noi pier) on the western side of the river. Exit and walk due west, then after only 50 meters or so, walk left into the hospital grounds, and follow the signs to the Adulyadej building. This was a bit confusing, as most of the signs are written in Thai. If you ask anyone there, mind you, they should be able to point you in the right direction. It took a couple wrong turns for us to find it, but it didn’t seem like rocket science in the end.
Do – Activities & Attractions
Coming Soon!
Affiliate Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means WSE Travel may earn a small commission if you choose to book or buy through them—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services we believe can genuinely enhance your travel experience.
Stay – Accommodation
Baan Wanglang Riverside
Baan Wanglang Riverside in Bangkok offers 3-star comfort right by the river, with a rooftop terrace, restaurant, and bar. Rooms are air-conditioned and well-equipped with a fridge, minibar, flat-screen TV, and private bathroom; some even include a kitchen. The hotel features free WiFi, a 24-hour front desk, room service, and airport transfers. Located just 2.1 km from Wat Arun and close to the Grand Palace and Khao San Road, it’s a peaceful spot with quick access to Bangkok’s top landmarks.
New Siam Riverside
New Siam Riverside in Bangkok offers family-friendly rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and balconies or terraces that overlook the city or river. Guests can relax by the pool, unwind on the sun terrace, or enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant and bar. With free WiFi, a peaceful garden, and a prime location near Khao San Road and the Grand Palace, it’s a great base for exploring the city while enjoying scenic river views.
Riva Surya
Riva Surya Bangkok sits right on the Chao Phraya River and blends comfort with a sleek, modern Thai design. Each room comes with air-conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and a private balcony offering river or city views. Guests can relax by the riverside pool, enjoy a workout at the fitness center, or dine at the on-site restaurant and bar. Just a short walk from the Grand Palace, Khao San Road, and the Bangkok National Museum, it’s a perfect stay for travelers who want both luxury and location.
Eat – Restaurants
Coming Soon!
Time – Seasonality & Schedules
At the time of this publication, the museums are open Monday – Friday, between the hours of 9 am – 3 pm.
Safety – Possible risks
Please Note: Travel inherently comes with an element of risk (just like crossing the road does). You are putting yourself in elements that are unfamiliar and foreign to your usual lifestyle and with that, become more susceptible to fall victim those who try to play off those unfamiliar to their local scams. There are also potential dangers in the environments to which you may not be accustomed to.
Please take extra care in travelling, ensure that you have adequate medical insurance (accidents seem to happen when you least expect them), and have let a trusted colleague, family member or friend know your whereabouts and activities.
Where Sidewalks End travel advises you to travel at your own risk, and to be extra aware of your surroundings (without letting it spoiling your time).
How much is the entrance to the Forensic museum in Bangkok?
Comprising of six distinct museums, the Siriraj Medical Museum is housed primarily on the second floor of the Adulyadejvikrom Building. Visitors are required to pay an entrance fee of ฿200 in this area Photography is strictly prohibited.
Responsible Travel – Best Practices
Coming Soon!
Reality Check – Be Aware
As mentioned earlier, this museum is not for the faint of heart. There are some very graphic displays found within the museum. Personally, I found it to be quite fascinating. I went with an open mind (and an empty stomach). It definitely brings to light a very different, and very real, side to investigations regarding our last chapter in life. It may not be for, you, but if you are looking for something very different, and quite educational, give your iron-stomach a test and head out to the forensic pathology museum in Bangkok. (I know I’m not alone in this, as I recently saw it on Travel Blogger Pam’s Bangkok Bucket List as well).
*Please Note: This is not recommended for a “first date” – though a “4 month dating” celebration (as we were doing) seems to be ok… as long as you clear it with your partner first.
JOIN US! WSE Travel Packages
This sounds like quite the adventure, right? We thought so too! Though we realize it can be pretty intimidating to get out there into the world on your own, especially when travelling to some of these off the beaten path locations. We love it when our readers give it a shot and try it for themselves! In fact, please leave us feedback if you do!! If trying something ‘this’ adventurous on your own is just a bit outside of your comfort zone, WSE Travel is here to help!
Follow this link for our ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ Tours – packages that are highly personalized and tailored at your request.
Bangkok Travel Resources
These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.
- Best Flight Deals: Trip.com – Trip is my favorite flight search engine. It is a flight aggregator that provides travelers with the best rates on airline tickets. Its innovative search finds the best option for specific travel dates by comparing airfares offered by all major airlines and agencies. The aggregator displays final prices, without any hidden fees. They are hands down the number one place to start.
- Best Hotel Deals: Booking.com – Booking is the best all-around hotel booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates because it compares all the other major hotel booking sites. They have the widest selection of comfortable accommodations. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
- Best Tour Deals: Where Sidewalks End (of course) – WSE Travel is a boutique tour operator with specially curated tours, events, and workshops. We have many tour options available in cities in Mexico and worldwide, including cooking classes, walking tours, art workshops, and more!
- Best Car Rental Deals: Discover Cars – If you want to have mobility freedom, renting a car is an incredible option, but finding the best deal can be a nightmare! Discover Cars scans all the major car rental sites and includes all mandatory fees, taxes, and extras in the quoted price so there won’t be any unpleasant surprises when you arrive at the rental desk.
- Best Travel Insurance Deals: SafetyWing – SafetyWing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to all your travel needs. They have cheap plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road. They even have subscriptions if you are planning long-term, without having to re-apply for each segment of your trip.
- Best E-Sim Provider: Airalo – Airalo is one of the most versatile e-sim providers I’ve ever found, offering e-sim in almost every country on earth! No need to take your home phone provider’s sim card out and risk losing it on your trip! As long as your phone has e-sim capabilities, Airalo has you covered at really good rates too, meaning you can be connected at all times on your trip!
- Best 100% Pick-pocket Proof Clothing Deals: Clever Companion – They make clothing specifically for travel, with hidden pockets to hide your valuables. From hoodies to briefs, they cover all your clothing needs – each with hidden pockets to hide your money, wallet, and anything else you want to keep safe!
- Best Eco-Safe Travel Products: TreeTribe – This company is just awesome! From water bottles to yoga pants, wallets to bikinis, and everything in between – all their products are great quality, and eco-friendly AND they plant a tree for every purchase!
- Best Outdoor Travel Product: LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
There’s more macabre and unusual sights to explore in Bangkok! Check out Mae Nak temple and The Fertility Shrine of Goddess Tubtim.
Do you have any interest in Forensic Pathology? Have you ever been to a museum like this before? What’s the most interesting museum you’ve been to, and what made it so great?
Please feel free to share your stories and thoughts in the comment section below!
Like This Post? Pin it for later!
Leave a Reply