Bo Sang Handicraft Village,Thailand

Bo Sang Handicraft Village (Bo Sang Umbrella Village) in San Kamphaeng, Chiang Mai is one of Thailand's most famous traditional craft centres. It is renowned nationally and internationally for its hand-painted Sa (mulberry) paper umbrellas and parasols, a craft preserved and passed down through generations. The village showcases Lanna (northern Thai) decorative styles and contributes to the cultural identity and local economy of the Chiang Mai region.

Places to visit

  • Demonstrations and workshops showing umbrella/parasols construction and hand-painting
  • Bo Sang Umbrella & Handicraft Centre / Folk Craft exhibits
  • Rows of family-run workshops and showrooms selling parasols, lamps, fans and lacquerware
  • Photo opportunities amid brightly painted umbrellas lining village streets
  • Nearby craft clusters (silk, wood carving) and local markets

Unique Aspects

  • Hand-painted Sa (mulberry) paper umbrellas with bamboo frames
  • Traditional Lanna floral and scenic motifs unique to northern Thailand
  • Custom painting — visitors can commission or participate in painting
  • Range of related handicrafts: paper lanterns, lamps, fans, lacquerware and textiles

Things to do

  • Watch step-by-step umbrella making from frame to painted finish
  • Take a short hands-on painting workshop (many shops offer this)
  • Shop for handcrafted parasols, lamps, fans, scarves and souvenirs
  • Photography of colourful streets and artisan workshops
  • Combine with a cycle or driving tour of San Kamphaeng and nearby hot springs

Festivals & Events

  • The annual Bo Sang Umbrella and San Kamphaeng Handicraft Fair (usually held in January) — features parades, umbrella painting competitions, cultural performances and a beauty pageant
  • Local market days and occasional craft demonstrations timed with Chiang Mai tourism seasons

Best Time to Visit

November–February (cool season) for comfortable weather and clear skies; plan for January if you want to attend the Bo Sang Umbrella Festival.

Weather Conditions

Northern Thailand climate: cool and dry in Nov–Feb, hot from Mar–May, and rainy (monsoon) from Jun–Oct. Expect daytime highs to vary from ~20–35°C depending on season.

Accessibility

Bo Sang is about 10–16 km east of Chiang Mai city centre (roughly 20–40 minutes by car depending on traffic). Accessible by: local songthaew (shared red truck) from Chiang Mai, taxi, tuk-tuk, rented motorbike/car, or organized tour. Nearest major transport hubs: Chiang Mai International Airport and Chiang Mai Railway Station in the city.

Recommended Duration

Plan 2–4 hours for a relaxed visit; a half-day allows time for demonstrations, shopping, a workshop and photos. Combine with nearby attractions for a full day.

Clothing & Gear Tips

Light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes; sun protection (hat, sunscreen) in the hot season; a light jacket for cool mornings/evenings in winter; pack a rain jacket or umbrella in the monsoon.

Local Food & Souvenirs

Souvenirs: hand-painted umbrellas and parasols, paper lanterns, decorative lamps, hand fans, lacquerware, textiles and scarves. Food: try Northern Thai specialties in nearby eateries — khao soi (curried noodle soup), sai ua (northern sausage), mango sticky rice and local snacks. Carry small bills or cash as many stalls prefer cash; politely bargain on market items but respect artisans’ work.

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