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Ultimate Guide to Handicraft Village in Chiang Mai
- Time Zone
- Best Time to Go
- Things to Know
- How to Get to the Handicraft Village in Chiang Mai
- Things to Do in the Handicraft Village in Chiang Mai
- Learn more about San Kamphaeng Handicraft Village
- Enjoy the beauty of Bo Sang Umbrella Village
- Where to Stay in San Kamphaeng District
- Sippa Hot Spring Resort
- Kham Mon Lanna Resort Chiang Mai
- Alpine Golf Resort Chiangmai
- Chapulin Natural Resort
- Khum Wang Nuea Villa
- Where to Eat in San Kamphaeng District
- Aroy Garden
- Gusto Site
- Tartar Bistro
- Bua Restaurant
- Huen Jai Yong
- Other Things to Do in San Kamphaeng District
- Go shopping at the Chamcha Market
- Experience sophistication at the MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum
- Cool down at the Tube Trek Water Park
- Be a farmer for a day at the Dutch Farm
- Marvel at the statues of Baan Jang Nak
- What to Expect from Chiang Mai Weather
- Apps to download for your Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden Tour
Thailand is a country that you need to experience for yourself in order to better appreciate what it has to offer. But did you know that it’s not just about the beaches, unique cuisine, and the warm locals?
The country is also steeped in an ancient culture which comes on full display when you visit select tourist spots– sites such as the Handicraft Village in Chiang Mai. Here’s our ultimate guide to the Handicraft Village to help you begin your cultural immersion!
Time Zone
Indochina Time (GMT+7)
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Chiang Mai and check out the Handicraft Village is from October to April.
During this period, you get cool and pleasant weather which adds to the relaxing vibe of taking in the cultural experience offered by this site. However, this means that these months are peak season for tourists as well.
You may also want to visit Chiang Mai during the months of November and February just to be able to witness the province’s festivities. You’ll experience the Loi Krathong Festival in November while the Chiang Mai Flower Festival happens every February.
Things to Know
Currency: Thai Baht
(Check the current exchange rate)
Language: Thai
Calling Code: +66
Address: Q39M+4J6 ทางหลวงชนบทหมายเลข1014 Ton Pao, San Kamphaeng District, Chiang Mai 50130, Thailand
Contact Number: N/A
Hours of Operation: Monday to Sunday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Fees:
- Around 1,000 THB for a private tour by car for one (1) to three (3) persons
- Around 1,400 THB for a private tour by van for four (4) to nine (9) persons
Tips:
- You need to set aside an entire day to fully enjoy everything the handicraft village has to offer.
- You should bring extra funds in case you see something you want to purchase such as umbrellas, silk, and other local handicrafts.
- Don’t forget to haggle and ask for discounts from the local artisans.
How to Get to the Handicraft Village in Chiang Mai
Motorbike: This is the option for you if you want to get to the Handicraft Village fast. It will only take you around 15 minutes to get from Chiang Mai City to the site.
It’s also quite practical since you can rent a motorbike in Chiang Mai City for as low as 150 THB to 500 THB (depending on the motorbike’s engine size).
The only downside we see here is that you can’t really bring the entire family with you if you go with this option.
Private car: We recommend that you rent and bring a private car if you want to get to the site comfortably, especially if you are travelling with your family or younger children. It will only take you around 20 minutes to come from the city centre of Chiang Mai City.
Going by private car can be quite expensive though, as a small sedan will set you back 1,000 THB per day while a larger vehicle (like an SUV) will cost around 2,500 per day of rental.
Renting a car to get to the village is still something that we’d recommend as you might end up buying trinkets and souvenirs which will also require that you transport the items you bought using a reliable 4-wheel vehicle (a sedan, at least).
Grab: The easiest and most convenient way to catch a ride going to the Handicraft Village from Chiang Mai City is by booking a Grab car which will run you around 400 THB one way.
We think that taking a Grab car to get to the site is the most convenient transport option for guests as most of the shops and craftsmen you need to check out in the village can be accessed on foot/ by walking.
Things to Do in the Handicraft Village in Chiang Mai
Learn more about San Kamphaeng Handicraft Village
Address: ทางหลวงชนบทหมายเลข1014 Ton Pao, San Kamphaeng District, Chiang Mai 50130, Thailand
Phone: N/A
If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture of the country, then San Kamphaeng Handicraft Village is the place to do it. The site is popular for its ceramics, elaborate wood carvings, silk weaving, and high-quality cotton.
Here, you not only get to appreciate the said items, but you and your family can get the chance to meet the artists who actually made them. Take your time strolling around the village though, as they do all of these in their workshops and factories around the area.
We recommend that you walk the length of the San Kamphaeng Road since each factory you’ll see here focuses its expertise on one particular craft. You might be lucky enough to even see these craft masters at work during your visit here.
Don’t miss the opportunity to watch these expert craftsmen at work– either when they are working on pieces of art or teaching their apprentices. Guests such as yourself are welcome to peek and watch how skillful they truly are.
Lastly, we suggest that you walk further down San Kamphaeng Road to check out the different markets and shops selling these local handicrafts.
While it’s true that you may find the same items in the city, it just hits differently if you purchase them straight from the craftsmen who created them!
Enjoy the beauty of Bo Sang Umbrella Village
Address: 1014, Ton Pao, San Kamphaeng District, Chiang Mai 50130, Thailand
Phone: +66817643643
You know your village is a hit if it has a festival celebrated in its honour!
This is the status the Bo Sang Umbrella Village currently enjoys– thanks to its hand-painted paper umbrellas, these unique parasols are celebrated at the Bo Sang Umbrella Festival every January.
The entrance to the town is an intricate archway made from these colourful paper umbrellas. Don’t forget to take pictures or selfies while you’re standing right next to or under this archway– it’s an Instagrammable moment you shouldn’t miss.
These parasols were traditionally created using saa and bamboo paper. Times have changed though and you’ll spot a craftsman or two creating these beautiful umbrellas using other materials such as silk, rayon, cotton, and canvas.
The main attraction of Bo Sang Umbrella Village is its umbrella factory. If you stay and pay attention to the entire process, you’ll see how all of these umbrellas are made, starting with the chopping of bamboo sticks for their handles down to the final touches.
With such craftsmanship on display, we can’t blame you if you stay more than you should while watching the umbrella factory craftsmen do their thing. In fact, you might be so mesmerised by all that’s happening that you need to spend the entire day here.
Where to Stay in San Kamphaeng District
Sippa Hot Spring Resort
Address: 50 หมู่ที่8 Ban Sa Ha Khon, Mae On District, Chiang Mai 50130, Thailand
Phone: +66949254628
Pricing: $$
After looking at all the craftsmen and their wares, you and your family will most likely want a hotel that is calming and tranquil. Sippa Hot Spring Resort is the perfect solution for you then!
It boasts cottage-style accommodations and some spa and hot pools for you to enjoy and chill out on. If you want something more private, we suggest getting a private room with a hot tub– ideal if you want to unwind away from the crowds.
Kham Mon Lanna Resort Chiang Mai
Address: 4 หมู่ที่ 6 Chai Sathan, Saraphi District, Chiang Mai 50140, Thailand
Phone: +66882635028
Pricing: $$
Do you prefer a hotel that seamlessly combines the traditional with the modern? Then Kham Mon Lanna Resort may be your best choice for accommodation here in the Kamphaeng District.
It has traditional-looking rooms with a touch of modern elegance that can provide you and your loved ones with the amenities you need to stay comfortable. Their rooms also have comfortable beds and nice views for you to enjoy.
If you have young children, they’ll surely have a blast in the hotel’s pool thanks to the jets of water streaming out of the elephant statues lining the sides of the pool.
Alpine Golf Resort Chiangmai
Address: San Kamphaeng Banthi Road Chiang Mai, 50130, Thailand
Phone: +6653880888
Pricing: $$
Are you an avid golf fan? Then if you happen to visit Chiang Mai and want to hit the golf course after your trip, you can choose to do so here at Alpine Golf Resort. This resort can provide you with world-class amenities and a gorgeous golf course to boot.
This resort cum golf course has very scenic views thanks to the surrounding mountains in the area. What’s more, their rooms are not only comfortable but they are also big enough to accommodate you and your entire family.
Chapulin Natural Resort
Address: San Kamphaeng, San Kamphaeng District, Chiang Mai 50130, Thailand
Phone: +66898894147
Pricing: $$
Tranquil is one word that comes to mind once we see the grounds and facilities of the Chapulin Natural Resort. The place is just oozing with calmness and peacefulness that it’s a top choice among yoga retreat groups.
You’ll find that the rooms are more traditional than modern but we think that this just adds to the appeal of the place. Plus, the lush greenery surrounding the area is an amazing way to mentally detox and de-stress.
We recommend that you order some of their refreshing beverages and the food items on the menu. They’re the perfect companions while you’re taking in nature’s beauty in this resort.
Khum Wang Nuea Villa
Address: 188, Ton Pao, San Kamphaeng District, Chiang Mai 50130, Thailand
Phone: +66 53 332 666
Pricing: $$$
If you’re a big fan of Lanna-inspired architecture, Khum Wang Nuea Villa can offer you what you want plus more! The hotel has a swimming pool for you to take a dip in plus a garden where you and your loved ones can just take a stroll and unwind.
The rooms are quite traditional but you’ll appreciate the generous space each one has for its guests. You should also try out the local dishes served in this hotel– the ideal way to feast if you want something traditional all throughout your stay!
Where to Eat in San Kamphaeng District
Aroy Garden
Address: 1317 – 1147 San Kamphaeng, San Kamphaeng District, Chiang Mai 50130, Thailand
Phone: +66818837661
Pricing: $$
You might be surprised that a restaurant serving German food is present in Chiang Mai but here we are! We now have Aroy Garden serving that Western cuisine goodness to its guests.
They have Thai food here but we recommend going for their German sausage, as it is as authentic as it gets. Also, their mushroom soup and beer salad are simply a must-try and you shouldn’t leave this place without ordering them!
Gusto Site
Address: Gusto Site, 192 Ton Pao, San Kamphaeng District, Chiang Mai 50130, Thailand
Phone: +66 87 657 9889
Pricing: $$
Do you want food options galore? Then let the cuisine medley offered by the Gusto Site rock your world and prepare for a culinary treat like no other right here in Chiang Mai!
This restaurant offers food items that range from Japanese dishes to Western dishes, and of course, Thai dishes. You should try their “volcano” sizzling platter which features a slab of steak that’s then set on fire, roasting it to perfection right in front of you.
We strongly suggest that you top your meal off with any of their alcoholic drinks and groove to the music of their live band to dial your experience all the way up to ten!
Tartar Bistro
Address: 108 Moo.7 T.San Kamphaeng, San Kamphaeng, San Kamphaeng District, Chiang Mai 50130, Thailand
Phone: +6653332122
Pricing: $$
American-style dining is what’s going on here at the Tartar Bistro. The restaurant has a nice and homey feel to it and will surely be inviting to guests such as yourself and your loved ones thanks to its nice vibe and friendly staff.
You should definitely try their ribs and steak with some tomato-based sauce as it has a familiar texture combined with a unique flavour. Ask your waiter for some of their specialty coffee and teas as they are some of the best ones in the area.
Bua Restaurant
Address: 5 1 Srinakarin Rd, Prawet, Bangkok 10250, Thailand
Phone: +6623935876
Pricing: $
A local favourite that you shouldn’t miss, Bua Restaurant is one of the most authentic and oldest Thai restaurants in Chiang Mai. It’s been in the business since 1992 and the locals can’t seem to get enough and it comes as no surprise.
You can order traditional Thai dishes such as mango sticky rice, jelly noodles, pad Thai shrimp salad, and mixed seafood salad (among others) to savour the real “flavours” of Thailand. Plus, their food offerings won’t drain your wallet as they are quite affordable!
Huen Jai Yong
Address: 65 หมู่ 4 บ้านป่าตาล บวกค้าง San Kamphaeng District, Chiang Mai 50130, Thailand
Phone: +66 86 671 8710
Pricing: $$
One of the best Chiang Mai restaurants offering traditional Thai food, Huen Jai Yong’s aesthetics and decorations highlight that it is steeped in culture.
In fact, you can have your pictures taken in front of the restaurant to exude that old-school feel with their traditional-looking parasol and bicycle. The food you and your loved ones can order here is varied but still based on the local cuisine of the area.
We recommend that you go for their crispy pork and Northern Thai spicy sausage. Both meat dishes are delicious and filling and will keep you happy and satiated as you go through your Chiang Mai tour!
Other Things to Do in San Kamphaeng District
Go shopping at the Chamcha Market
If you still haven’t satisfied your need to shop during your Handicraft Village tour, then check out the nearby Chamcha Market. Here, you’ll find and be able to buy unique souvenirs and handicraft items that you can bring home to your loved ones!
Experience sophistication at the MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum
The Handicraft and Umbrella Village both feature more traditional works of art but here at the MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum, you’ll get the chance to see and experience modern Chiang Mai art. Head on down here and enjoy the art and culture it offers!
Cool down at the Tube Trek Water Park
Kids will go crazy over Tube Trek Water Park thanks to its water slides and wave pool. Adults and children can also just chill out and unwind while letting the waterpark’s lazy river move them along– a perfect and unique family bonding moment if you ask us!
Be a farmer for a day at the Dutch Farm
Ever wondered what it was like to be a farmer and take care of cute animals? Well, the Dutch Farm here in Chiang Mai will let you live that dream out and allow you and the kids to interact and even feed all kinds of animals such as sheep and fish!
Marvel at the statues of Baan Jang Nak
You may not be able to interact with live elephants here, but at Baan Jang Nak, you’ll get the opportunity to experience and marvel at some of the most exquisite elephant carvings in the country. They also have a nice cafe for you to try out after your tour here.
What to Expect from Chiang Mai Weather
Cool Season: Chiang Mai’s cool season covers the months of November to February. During this time, the weather is just perfect for tourists as it is cool and comfortable enough for you and your family to tour the area.
However, the months of December and January of the cool season can bring in large throngs of crowds due to the New Year’s celebration. Expect heavy traffic and prepare to do some itinerary planning to make the most of your time during these months.
Hot Season: The hot season in Chiang Mai runs from March to May. The air can be especially dry during these months and this is also the hottest season here.
If you visit during April, you’ll notice a very festive vibe across Thailand as locals will be celebrating their Thai New Year or Songkran. To cool down, you can engage with the locals in some good old-fashioned Songkran water splashing!
Rainy Season: The months of June to October are mostly rainy here in Chiang Mai. August and September are the worst in terms of rain as heavy downpours can happen all throughout the day during this period.
You can still enjoy your time here despite the rain as the temperature is definitely much more comfortable compared to the summer season. Also, expect the greenery to be much more lush– perfect if you want that vibrant green background in your selfie!
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