The discovery of dinosaur remains in this area began by chance during a uranium exploration survey in 1976.
Phu Wiang is the type locality for three distinct dinosaur genera: Siamosaurus, Siamotyrannus, and Phuwiangosaurus.
The museum structure was designed to resemble the geological layers of the Phu Wiang mountain range.
Siamotyrannus is a primitive carnosaur, representing an ancestor of the Tyrannosaurus rex family.
The local fossils are primarily preserved within the Sao Khua Formation, which dates back to the Early Cretaceous period.
Phu Wiang Dinosaur Museum is a specialized paleontological facility located within the Phu Wiang National Park in Khon Kaen, Thailand. The museum sits in the exact region where the first dinosaur fossils in Thailand were discovered in 1976. It showcases the discovery of Siamosaurus suteethorni, the first dinosaur genus identified in the country. The exhibits cover various excavation sites, displaying original bones preserved in their sandstone matrix. The facility acts as an educational center for the geology of the Khorat Plateau. It features life-sized reconstructions of dinosaurs found within the surrounding district. Visitors can view both indoor fossil galleries and outdoor geological trail displays.
The life-sized animatronic models in the central atrium provide the most dynamic visual perspective.
Combine your museum visit with a self-drive tour to the nearby outdoor excavation pits located within the national park.
Visit the 'Siamotyrannus' outdoor display near the museum entrance for better lighting and large-scale photo opportunities.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the surrounding park paths leading to excavation pits involve uneven terrain.
Do not attempt to hike the outdoor excavation sites during peak noon heat or rainy season downpours when trails become muddy and difficult.
Closed on Mondays.
Maintain silence in gallery areas; do not touch exposed fossils or climb on dinosaur models; dress modestly as it is a regional educational site.
