Khon is a masked traditional Thai dance and one of the country's most prestigious art forms. The dance troupe, historically composed exclusively of men, is always accompanied by a Thai piphat orchestra and a narrator. The ensemble tells a story through music and movement, resembling the style of a traditional musical.

The History of Khon Dance

Where does khon originate from?

Historical evidence suggests that Thai theatrical performance was already highly refined by the 17th century. In 1687, King Louis XIV of France dispatched a diplomat, Simon de la Loubère, to document what he observed in the Siamese kingdom. In his renowned account, Du Royaume de Siam, La Loubère meticulously observed the classical theatre of 17th-century Siam, including a scene of an epic battle from a Khon performance.

Already present when the country's capital was still Ayutthaya, the traditional Khon dance—which blends theatre, vocal performances, choreography, literature, and ancestral rituals—was originally reserved for the royal court.

What does it tell?

Khon performances most often recount episodes from the Ramakien (the Thai adaptation of the Indian Ramayana). These focus on the story of the hero Rama, an incarnation of the god Vishnu, who represents order and justice to the world. Rama's adventures, comparable to those of Odysseus, are epic and grand: involving armies of monkeys, journeys through forests, and battles against Thotsakan's army of giants—impossible not to be captivated and moved.

What is its symbolism?

Khon serves an important instructive function, promoting and teaching values deeply rooted in Thai culture:

• respect for ancestors, peers, and those of high rank
• interdependence between leaders and the led
• the honour of rulers
• the religious triumph of good over evil

Practical Information

A complete package

For 500 Baht in Bangkok, you'll receive a pass to visit the Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), and its museum. As a bonus, you'll receive a ticket to attend a traditional Khon dance performance at the Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre in Bangkok.

Performances last 25 minutes and are offered Monday to Friday at various times: 10:30 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM, 4:00 PM, 5:30 PM.

The show alone

If you lack the desire or time to visit temples and palaces but still wish to experience the performance, don't worry! You can purchase a ticket for the royal theatre only. Performance times vary and differ from those included with a Grand Palace ticket. Shows typically take place Thursday and Friday at 7:30 PM, though future schedules are unpredictable. The performance also runs longer than at the Grand Palace, with dancers performing for 1 hour 30 minutes.

Regarding ticket prices, admission is free for children under 12, and standard adult prices vary by seating location between 800 and 1,200 Baht. However, many ticket vendors frequently offer discounts and permanent sales.

Note: The theatre is quite cool, so dress warmly.