San Kamphaeng and Bo Sang, located just outside of Chiang Mai, offer a fascinating glimpse into traditional Thai handicrafts. A visit to this area provides a unique opportunity to witness artisans at work and purchase authentic, locally made products.
San Kamphaeng:
- Handicraft Hub:
- San Kamphaeng is renowned for its diverse range of handicrafts, including silk and cotton weaving, wood carving, lacquerware, and ceramics.
- Along the main road, you'll find numerous workshops and showrooms where artisans create and sell their wares.
- Visitors can observe the intricate processes involved in crafting these traditional products, from weaving silk on wooden looms to carving elaborate wooden sculptures.
- Shopping Experience:
- The area is a shopper's paradise, offering a wide selection of high-quality handicrafts at reasonable prices.
- You can find everything from fine silk fabrics and clothing to intricately carved furniture and decorative items.
- Purchasing directly from the artisans provides a unique opportunity to support local craftspeople.
- Variety of crafts:
- San Kamphaeng is known for a wide variety of crafts. This allows for a very diverse shopping experience.
Bo Sang:
- Umbrella Village:
- Bo Sang is famous for its handmade paper umbrellas, known as "sa paper" umbrellas.
- These colorful and intricately painted umbrellas are a symbol of Chiang Mai's artistic heritage.
- Visitors can watch artisans create the umbrellas from start to finish, from constructing the bamboo frames to painting the delicate designs.
- Umbrella Production:
- The village is filled with workshops where you can see the various stages of umbrella production.
- You can observe the skilled craftsmanship involved in creating these beautiful and functional works of art.
- The yearly umbrella festival that occurs in January is a very popular event.
- Shopping and Observation:
- Bo Sang offers a wide selection of umbrellas in various sizes, colors, and designs.
- You can also find other handcrafted items, such as fans and other paper products.
- It is a great place to see the production of a very unique product.
General Travel Tips:
- San Kamphaeng and Bo Sang are located a short distance from Chiang Mai city, and can be easily reached by taxi, tuk-tuk, or organized tour.
- Allow ample time to explore the various workshops and showrooms.
- Be prepared to bargain when purchasing handicrafts.
- Consider visiting during the Bo Sang Umbrella Festival in January for a truly unique cultural experience.
- Due to the nature of the locations, it is a great place to support local artisans.