Former Thai embassy premises converted to multifunctional Siam Nivasa Cultural Centre

The building, which previously housed the Royal Thai Embassy, in Colombo, located in the vicinity of the Colombo Town Hall, has been transformed by the Royal Thai Embassy into a multifunctional cultural centre called Siam Nivasa.

Siam Nivasa – or, in Thai language ‘Siam Nivas’ – means the home of Thai people.

The Thai government purchased this building in the 1980s, and used it as the Embassy.

The Royal Thai Embassy is now located at Sir Marcus Fernando Mawatha, and the old building has now been revived and will function as a cultural centre and a venue for events and activities to promote and grow the historic, warm and friendly relations between Thailand and Sri Lanka.

On 26 September 2022, a special inauguration event was held to mark the opening of Siam Nivasa.

The event included a Hoon-Kra-Bork, or traditional Thai puppet show, and a Traditional Musical performance, followed by the workshop of the Thai Puppetry Art. In addition, the participants were given an opportunity to enjoy traditional Thai cuisines, and desserts, at the end of the workshop.

Commenting on the occasion, Poj Harnpol, the Thai Ambassador to Sri Lanka, said “Having enjoyed exceptionally warm diplomatic ties with Sri Lanka, since 1955, in addition to centuries of Buddhist ties, the Kingdom of Thailand is very proud to unveil the new Siam Nivasa Multifunctional Cultural Venue. It is time that we had a dedicated space to celebrate the cordial friendship between our two countries, while also providing a functional venue for various occasions that can be used by Sri Lankans and Thai nationals in Sri Lanka. We look forward to working together with Sri Lanka and our other diplomatic partners, as we continue to spread awareness about the Thai culture around the world.”

The inauguration event of the Royal Thai Embassy’s Siam Nivasa Multifunctional Cultural Venue was attended by a number of diplomats and dignitaries including High Commissioners and Ambassadors of foreign countries.