Museum of World Insects and Natural Wonders

This has to be Chiang Mai’s quirkiest and, in many ways, most interesting museum - unique in the world and a must-see for anyone curious about nature’s mysterious ways.

The collection was assembled by Manop Rattanarithikul, whose endearing story began with a vulture’s egg given to him by his grandmother. All around the entrance are examples of petrified wood and other natural wonders, and the weird insects on display number over 10,000 species, including over 400 species of mosquito found in Thailand alone. As you walk round, it becomes obvious that this is a labor of love and that the owner is totally obsessed with the marvelous creatures found on our planet.

Note particularly the stick insects and others that look like dried leaves - an ideal camouflage against predators. All specimens are displayed in well-lit cabinets and clearly labeled, so a visit is not only an interesting take on the natural world but an educational experience too.

The museum is on Sirimangkalajan Road to the west of the Old City; it’s best to hop on a tuk-tuk to get there unless you are staying in this part of town, in which case you could walk.

• What is it? A museum displaying a fantastic range of insects and other oddities of nature.
• When to go: Any time; they don’t close for holidays.
• Don’t miss: The butterfly collection, which includes species that are now extinct.
• Address: 72 Nimmanhaemin Soi 13.
• Opening hours: 09:00 - 17:00 daily.
• Entrance fees: Adults 300B; children 200B.