Thai textiles began as a way of life and over time, they have become arts. Handwoven and hand-dyed, these textiles require high level of skills and painstaking attention to detail. They also empower women as they play a key role in handcrafting Thai textiles.

Each kind of textile differs, from pattern designs to weaving and dyeing techniques. To learn more about them, it’s best to go straight to the sources: the weaving villages and groups. This way, you can support the locals and keep these art forms alive. 

9 Weaving Groups and Villages for Thai Textile Lovers

1. Ban Nong Ngueak in Lamphun, Northern Thailand

For over 200 years, the heritage of cotton weaving in Ban Nong Ngueak has been preserved. This is where Yong people (an ethnic group from Myanmar) settled and they have been passing down their weaving techniques for generations.

Apart from high-quality products, which range from modern dresses to pillowcases and curtains, Ban Nong Ngueak has unique looms that can be used by two people at once. These lover looms were used by the husband and the wife in order to produce larger pieces. With lover looms, the husband got to work and stay in the village with his wife. You can still try weaving with lover looms at the village.

2. Pua in Nan, Northern Thailand

In addition to rice, Tai Lue culture thrives in Pua as it’s where they first settled in Nan. One of the most interesting characteristics of Tai Lue culture is that women must learn to weave.

Tai Lue women in Thailand use a special technique called Tapestry Weaving (Lai Nam Lai), using their fingers to interlace the colorful cotton threads and create highly intricate patterns. The results look like water flowing, hence the name Lai Nam Lai, which means literally that. Today you can still admire the art of traditional Tai Lue-style weaving and also buy the handmade products in Pua, especially at Lamduan Textile.

Discover other things to do in Nan, Thailand.

3. Ban Thung Hong in Phrae, Northern Thailand

You might remember Thailand’s classic indigo farmer shirts and pants, but did you know that these traditional clothes or Mo Hom are from Ban Thung Hong? Hom is the name of the plant for Mo Hom indigo dye. From weaving to dyeing, you can learn the whole process of Mo Hom production or even design and make your own costume at this village. The locals at Ban Thung Hong Village are creative and have branched out into other products like Mo Hom bags, umbrellas and etc.

Discover other things to do in Phrae, Thailand.

4. Ban Hat Siew in Sukhothai, Northern Thailand

Known for colorful patterns, Ban Hat Siew textiles are Tai Phuan local wisdom, ethnic people who migrated from Laos. All Tai Phuan women learn to weave before they turn 16, so they create their own patterned sinh (a kind of sarong) for ceremonial use. Ceremonial sinh is called Pha Sinh Teen Chok in Thai.

The difference from other kinds of sinh is that, each Pha Sinh Teen Chok is divided into not three but four parts: the head, the body, the foot and the special part that’s connected to the foot part. This extra part is the most beautiful part of Pha Sinh Teen Chok and the villagers of Ban Hat Siew use porcupine quill in the patterning process.

5. Ban Phon in Kalasin, Northeastern Thailand

Among a variety of silk fabrics in Thailand, Phrae Wa silk of Ban Phon is the Queen of Silk and probably the most famous. A handicraft by Phu Tai women, it’s the same fabrics used for draping Northeastern Thai women’s shoulders. Fusing the khit technique for embossed patterns and the chok technique for colorful patterns, Phrae Wa silk is exceptionally beautiful.

Red was the most common dye for Phrae Wa silk, but now the locals use other colors for more variety. From pink and purple to blue and green, Phrae Wa silk has become more colorful than ever.

6. Wat That Prasit Handicraft Center in Nakhon Phanom, Northeastern Thailand

When the late King Rama IX and the Queen visited the community, they received the local Mudmee ikat silk as a gift and saw its potential. Therefore, Wat That Prasit Handicraft Center was established as a royal initiative to help the locals earn more income outside the agricultural seasons and better their quality of life.

Since then the locals have been developing their Mudmee silk weaving and natural dyeing techniques.  

7. Ban Non Rua in Sakon Nakhon, Northeastern Thailand

Thai textiles have many shades. Even the shades of indigo-dyed fabrics vary. Unlike Mo Hom of Ban Thung Hong in Phrae, indigo of the clothes in Sakon Nakhon comes from the plant kram instead of hom. The village Ban Non Rua is especially famous for their indigo-dyed fabrics, but there are many Sakon Nakhon villages where the kram heritage is alive. Take for example Mae Thita (The movie Troy featured their indigo-dyed clothes) and Ban Tham Tao (The locals plant and produce more kram dye than anywhere in Sakon Nakhon). Each village has its own style and the locals are still developing their techniques even today.

Experience hands-on indigo dyeing with the local gurus. You'll learn the regional art step by step and go home with your very own indigo-dyed piece, a real heart-made and handmade souvenir from Thailand. Read more here.

Sakon Nakhon and its dyeing tradition also has a lot to do with buffaloes, Isaan's signature animal. Our Local Expert also lets you befriend the adorable cattle and discover how they help the locals craft up their tie-dyed products. You will get to make your own tie-dyed t-shirt and taste authentic Isaan food too. Read more here.

Discover other things to do in Sakon Nakhon, Thailand.

8. Ban Tha Sawang in Surin, Northeastern Thailand

Pha Yok Thong is a very special kind of silk. It was chosen as the shirt and shawl material for global leaders who participated in the 2003 APEC in Thailand. This top-notch silk originated at Ban Tha Sawang in Surin.

The beautiful village features not only traditional wooden houses but also a museum that exhibits silk fabrics with ancient Thai patterns. Naga holding Garuda, Thepphanom (temple guardian angels with their hands at the wai position) and so on. 

9. Ban Na Meun Sri in Trang, Southern Thailand

Ban Na Meun Sri women weave their own fabrics for important occasions in their lives: their wedding, their son’s ordination and their funeral. The 200-year-old craftsmanship almost died out due to the lack of material during the World War II and industrialization of weaving.

Fortunately, the elder in the village initiated the preservation of their traditional weaving and their successors have established Ban Na Meun Sri weaving group. Red fabrics with yellow patterns are the most common, but many unique patterns are available. From doll pattern to Constitution Monument pattern. Over 100 beautiful handwoven fabrics are on display at the museum.

Discover other things to do in Trang, Thailand.

Welcome to Amazing Thailand – Open to the New Shades. This is your ultimate Thailand travel guide, off-the-beaten-track edition. Go local and explore Thailand through new perspectives. Open your heart and mind… to the shades of Thailand that you never knew exist!

The post Thai Textiles: Where to Explore the Art of Thai Weaving and Dyeing appeared first on Amazing Thailand.

Trang, Southern Thailand

Southern Thailand is the ultimate dream destination for sea, sand and sun seekers, but where to? If you ask a local for recommendation, Trang will definitely be one of the answers and rightfully so. While Phuket, Samui and Krabi are obvious choices, Trang is still a hidden gem among foreign travelers. Its serene beaches, sparkling blue sea and enchanting underwater world hold a lot of surprises, including extremely rare dugongs and underwater wedding.

Apart from being well-connected to other southern cities, Trang is only a little more than an hour away from Bangkok thanks to daily direct flights. Before or after heading out to its beautiful beaches and islands, don’t forget to enjoy greenery and caves for a change and immerse yourself in its historic side. As a former port town, the city saw some pioneering development, like the first rubber tree in Thailand, and got to welcome cultural diversity. Its food scene is seriously one of the best in Thailand.

In a nutshell, this southern city is very colorful and flavorful. Check out these top things to do in Trang, Thailand, and enjoy authentic local experiences before the rest of the world catches on.

Top 10 Things to Do in Trang, Thailand

1. Set sail on your sea voyage at Hat Chao Mai National Park

Beautiful and peaceful beaches in Hat Chao Mai National Park will make for a great start of your island hopping trip. Kick back, relax and enjoy the view. The national park is also dotted with karst cliffs and mangrove forests and has Kuan Khang Hot Spring.   

The national park is unbeatable when it comes to accessibility to Trang’s wealth of islands. Pak Meng Beach is the best starting point. You can use it as your base when exploring the top islands like Koh Muk, Koh Kradan and Koh Chuak.        

2. Visit the city’s most beautiful island, Koh Kradan, and even get married under the sea

The sand is so white it seems to shine. The sea is so clear you can see the marine life. It’s no wonder Koh Kradan is considered the city’s best and one of Thailand’s best. You’ll want to lie down on the powdery sand and enjoy the view of other islands from the beach, but don’t miss underwater beauty. Go out into the sea for a snorkeling experience of your lifetime.

Speaking of an experience of your lifetime, Koh Kradan is one of the venues for the world-famous underwater wedding in mid-February. As certified by Guinness, it’s the biggest underwater wedding ceremony in the world. Its beauty also lies in the local cultural elements.

3. Marvel at Morakot Cave near Koh Mook

Morakot Cave translates to Emerald Cave and it’s as magical as the name suggests. The journey from Koh Mook to the cave itself is pretty exciting. The sea cave entrance is so small that you can only swim or kayak through during low tide. It’s also dark inside, so it’s wise to follow a guide. At the end of the cave, a white sand beach, a lush forest and tall cliffs await. The real spectacle, though, is obviously the moment when the water turns emerald green. The magic happens thanks to the sunlight that shines through the cave opening and it depends on the angle. Time your visit between 10am-2pm.

Like Koh Kradan, Morakot Cave is part of the city’s underwater wedding ceremony.

4. Be enchanted by the city’s best snorkeling spots, Koh Ma and Koh Chuak

Koh Ma and Koh Chuak are small islands, but their charms actually lie in the sea. Beneath the aquamarine water is a whole new world of colors created by coral reefs, fish and other sea creatures. As there are rapids between the two islands, you’ll have to hold onto a rope for support while snorkeling.

If you fancy taking your island-hopping to the next level, don't miss exploring Similan islands, Surin islands, the secluded and charming Yao Noi island on a private boat with our Local Experts. You can also cruise along the dreamy coast from Phuket to Phangga Bay here.

5. Go dugong spotting on Koh Libong

As you travel around the city, you’ll notice several dugong statues, signs and souvenirs. Why did they become the city’s mascot? That’s because most dugongs left in Thailand are found in Trang. They are an endangered species and there are only about 100 dugongs in Koh Libong and the vicinity. An encounter with them requires some luck, but it’s worth climbing and trekking to Point Dugongs.

Koh Libong also offers a wide range of activities. Tranquil beaches for beach bums. Scenic mountains and forest trails for adventurers. Traditional stilt houses and local way of life at Muslim fishing village for cultural enthusiasts. The city’s biggest island has something for everyone.      

6. Feast on heavenly cuisine and charming cultural diversity

While Trang’s old town might not be as colorful as Phuket, a Sino-Portuguese architecture walk in the area is still a good idea. It might not be an exciting love at first sight, but slowly sip its charm and you’ll end up falling for the wonderfully retro atmosphere. You can also visit Chinese shrines, mosques and Trang Church to learn about the city’s diverse religions. 

Tired after the walk? No worries. Local culinary specialties to the rescue. The city’s repertoire is delightfully huge and you can actually spend the whole day tasting them. Dim sum and kopi (Southern Thai coffee) make traditional breakfast in the south, but Trang locals are the one and only to have roasted pork with them. Trang-style roasted pork is crispy, juicy and also tender, with mouth-watering smell. Try it and you won’t regret it. For lunch and breakfast, taste Muslim, Chinese or even vegetarian cuisine. (The city's local food is a wonderful blend of Thai, Chinese, Malay and Indian influences.) Finish your meal off with a slice of fluffy Trang cake.     

7. Trace the city’s historic legacy in Kantang

Though it’s now a quiet town, traces of Kantang’s rich history can still be seen and felt. Kantang Railway Station, the terminal station of the Southern-Andaman railroad, is one of Thailand’s architectural gems with its classical beauty and iconic mustard yellow paint.  

Close by is the Phraya Ratsadanupradit Mahitsaraphakdi Museum, which is housed in his former residence. The city’s most influential governor was also called Khaw Sim Bee (his birthname) and among his numerous contributions was importing Thailand’s first rubber tree from Malaysia. It leaves a long-lasting impact as rubber farm is now one of Thailand’s major sources of income. The rubber tree that began everything is still in Kantang.  

8. Walk above the trees at Trang Peninsular Botanic Garden

Green might not be the first color that comes to mind in seaside cities, but Trang’s natural landscape isn’t just about beaches and islands. At Thung Khai or Trang Peninsular Botanic Garden, you can relax among rare plants and recharge with super fresh forest air. Above all, a visit there is more than a walk into the woods with its canopy walkways.

9. Lie down and paddle under the dragon’s belly inside Le Khao Kop Cave

Le Khao Kop Cave is full of amazing stalactites and stalagmites, but it’s also the thrill that makes travelers love it. First, you have to paddle into Le Khao Kop Cave and after a guided stroll in the limestone cave comes the city’s ultimate water adventure. You’ll have to row along the lowest part of the cave, which stretches about 350 meters. How low is the ceiling? So low you have to lie down on your back on the boat.

This is likened to walking under the dragon’s belly. According to the Chinese belief, dragon’s belly walk is an act of attracting fortune. Hence the lowest part of the cave is called Dragon Cave.

10. Learn about the art of weaving at Ban Na Meun Sri

Ban Na Meun Sri women weave their own fabrics for important occasions in their lives: their wedding, their son’s ordination and their funeral. The 200-year-old craftsmanship almost died out due to the lack of material during the World War II and industrialization of weaving.

Fortunately, the elder in the village initiated the preservation of their traditional weaving and their successors have established Ban Na Meun Sri weaving group. Red fabrics with yellow patterns are the most common, but many unique patterns are available. From doll pattern to Constitution Monument pattern. Over 100 beautiful handwoven fabrics are on display at the museum.

That’s it for things to do in Trang, Thailand, but that’s not all you can do on your journey. Pair your visit to Trang with a trip to its charming neighbor, Satun. Find out things to do in Satun, Thailand.

Welcome to Amazing Thailand – Open to the New Shades. This is your ultimate Thailand travel guide, off-the-beaten-track edition. Go local and explore Thailand through new perspectives. Open your heart and mind… to the shades of Thailand that you never knew exist!

The post Top Things to Do in Trang, Thailand: To-Die-for Snorkeling Spots, Diverse Cuisine and 200-Year-Old Weaving Culture appeared first on Amazing Thailand.