. Local Handicraft Villages – Umbrella, Silver &
Wood Crafts of Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is internationally renowned for its traditional handicrafts, shaped by centuries of Lanna
culture and artisan heritage. Just beyond the city, a network of local handicraft villages preserves age-old
skills in paper umbrella making, silver craftsmanship, and wood carving—offering visitors authentic
cultural encounters and the chance to support local communities directly.
☂ Bo Sang Umbrella Village – Colorful Symbol of Chiang Mai

📍 About the Village
Bo Sang Umbrella Village, located in San Kamphaeng District, is famous for its handmade paper
umbrellas crafted from saa paper (mulberry bark). This village has produced umbrellas for over 100 years,
passing techniques from generation to generation.
🎨 Craft Highlights
 Handmade bamboo frames
 Saa paper stretched and sun-dried
 Hand-painted floral and geometric designs
 Umbrellas, fans, lamps, and décor items
Visitors can watch artisans paint umbrellas by hand and even paint their own umbrella as a souvenir.
🎉 Bo Sang Umbrella Festival
Held annually (usually January), the festival features parades, craft demonstrations, cultural shows, and
vibrant umbrella displays—one of Chiang Mai’s most colorful events.
💍 Wua Lai Silver Village – The Art of Lanna Silversmiths

📍 About the Village
Wua Lai Road has long been home to Chiang Mai’s silversmith community. The neighborhood’s heritage
is best represented by the nearby Silver Temple, Wat Sri Suphan, decorated with intricate silver panels
made by local craftsmen.
✨ Craft Highlights
 Hand-hammered silver jewelry
 Decorative silverware and bowls
 Traditional engraving techniques
 Custom-made pieces
Many workshops welcome visitors to observe the silver-making process and purchase authentic handmade
silver directly from artisans.
🛍 Best Time to Visit
Saturday evenings coincide with the Saturday Walking Street (Wua Lai Road), when silver stalls and
cultural performances bring the area to life.
Baan Tawai Wood Carving Village – Masterpieces in Teak &
Wood

📍 About the Village
Located in Hang Dong District, Baan Tawai is Thailand’s most famous wood-carving village. For decades,
it has been the center of fine wood craftsmanship, particularly teak and hardwood carving.
Craft Highlights
 Hand-carved furniture and home décor
 Buddha statues and religious art
 Sculptures, masks, and panels
 Custom woodwork and export-quality pieces
Artisans demonstrate traditional carving techniques, and visitors can browse showrooms ranging from small
souvenirs to large statement furniture.
🌿 Cultural Value & Community Impact
Local handicraft villages play a vital role in:
 Preserving Lanna cultural heritage
 Providing sustainable income for artisan families
 Promoting ethical, community-based tourism
 Passing skills to younger generations
Purchasing directly from villages helps keep these traditions alive.
🚗 How to Visit the Handicraft Villages
 By Private Car / Taxi: Most convenient
 By Tour Package: Half-day or full-day handicraft tours
 By Songthaew: Available to San Kamphaeng and Hang Dong areas
Many visitors combine Bo Sang + Baan Tawai in one day.
🕒 Best Time to Visit
 Morning – Early Afternoon: Cooler weather, active workshops
 November – February: Best climate
 Festival Periods: Extra cultural activities and demonstrations

🌟 Why Visit Local Handicraft Villages?
✔ Authentic Lanna craftsmanship
✔ Live artisan demonstrations
✔ Unique handmade souvenirs
✔ Support local communities
✔ Cultural experiences beyond city attractions