THE ARTISANS' VILLAGE
The village has developed a lot in recent years, you will now find grocery stores, cafes, restaurants, all kinds of small shops, a super beautiful school, a health center ... Hospital, administrative center, supermarket ... are at 10km, in a small town where you find everything you can need.
The Buddhist temple
The village has two Buddhist temples. The most impressive, all covered with gold, is dedicated to the Kruba (venerated monk) Sri Wiang Chai.
The Royal Project
In 1978, following a visit by King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), the village benefited from a royal program aimed at supporting the traditional activities of ethnic minorities.
This project encouraged several local skills: weaving, cultivation of vegetables, fruit trees, flowers, and aromatic plants, as well as silversmithing.
It helped strengthen the village's economy while preserving its artisanal traditions.
Weaving
In the village, weaving still occupies an important place in the lives of Karen women.
Many make their own traditional clothing, using techniques passed down for generations.
The patterns and colors tell the story and identity of Karen communities.
Agriculture
Agriculture deeply punctuates village life.
Planting, harvesting, and selling are often done collectively and contribute to the economic balance of the community.
These activities also give rise to moments of sharing: communal meals, festivals, and celebrations that mark the seasons.
Buddhist temples
The village has two Buddhist temples.
The most impressive is the Mahathat Chedi Sri Wiangchai, known for its large golden chedi, visible from afar.
Built on the initiative of the revered monk Kruba Chaiyawongsa, it attracts pilgrims from all over Thailand.
A spiritual center for the community
The temple is the spiritual heart of the village.
Daily life there is deeply intertwined with the teachings of Buddhism:
respect for all living things, sobriety, mutual aid, and community life.
These values profoundly influence the village's atmosphere and how its inhabitants live and work.
The origins of Itsara jewelry
If you are curious, now go and meet the craftsman, learn more about jewelry manufacturing Where to discover theArt of jewelry of golden triangle ethnic groups.
