Phuket Mining Museum

The Phuket Mining Museum tells about the history of tin mining, which played a key role in the development of the island. The expositions feature large-scale models of mines, miners’ tools, vintage photographs, and installations depicting the life of miners.

In each hall, a specific historical era is recreated. The composition is complemented by realistic wax figures that are indistinguishable from people from afar. Ancient tools in the form of tips, arrows, and fishing hooks indicate that Phuket was once part of the Malacca Peninsula and separated later due to tectonic shifts. In the mining museum in Kathu, a cave dwelling of ancient man is recreated, and nearby are artifacts dating back to the I–III millennium BC.

The industrial development of Phuket began in the second half of the 16th century when tin ore deposits were discovered on the island. All lakes on the island are artificial and are former mines flooded with water. Visitors are impressed by the large-scale model showing work in quarries, which was done manually. Mechanization of manual labor began only in the 20th century, and each stage of tin mining history is presented in the museum on Phuket in various expositions.

Most samples of rocks and household items are allowed to be touched by hand. Several locations imitate the streets of Phuket Town, where you can sit at a table, read an old newspaper, or play board games. The museum in Kathu with interactive zones allows you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the past.