Jim Thompson's House

This site is often overlooked by travellers passing through Bangkok but is one of the city's must-see sites.

The former home of American entrepreneur Jim Thompson, the house is a stunning work of design and a beautiful spot to spend an hour or two. Jim Thompson is widely recognised as the man responsible for the revitalisation of a waning Thai silk industry. Born in the United States in 1906, he first visited Thailand while working for the US Overseas Secret Service – the predecessor of the CIA – towards the end of World War II. His operation was curtailed by the end of the war, and Thompson moved back to the US but was soon drawn back to Thailand. Once back in Asia he began working tirelessly to promote Thai silk overseas and eventually his efforts paid off as the ailing industry sprang back into life.

In 1959, Jim Thompson's unique house was completed. It is constructed from six different traditional teak house appropriated from as far away as Ayutthaya. Interestingly, the walls have been installed in reverse.

The house is decorated with ancient relics from throughout Thailand and works of art from Burma, China and Cambodia. It also boasts exquisite paintings and intricately carved furniture. Keep an eye out for the cat-shaped urinal and a mouse house.

In 1967, Jim Thompson disappeared in Malaysia's Cameron Highlands under mysterious circumstances and his body has never been found. His sister was murdered in the US the same year. Various theories have been suggested about Thompson's death, including a CIA plot, kidnapping by guerrillas, being run down by a truck or mauled by tigers but no conclusive evidence has ever been found.

A shop on the grounds sells a huge array of Jim Thompson souvenirs including some picturesque maps and postcards. The museum restaurant is delicious and it is worth planning your visit around lunchtime