Baan Tawai Village

Explore Thai Woodcarving Art at Baan Tawai Village

Uncover the Rich Artistic Heritage of Chiang Mai's Renowned Woodcarving Hub

If you have a passion for woodcarving and Thai culture, Baan Tawai is a must-visit destination on your trip to Chiang Mai. This enchanting village, located south of Chiang Mai, is famous for its exquisite woodcarving art and rich cultural heritage. In this article, we will introduce you to the wonders of Baan Tawai, provide guidance on how to reach this captivating village, and suggest nearby attractions to enrich your Thai adventure.

Baan Tawai is celebrated for its exceptional woodcarving craftsmanship, with numerous workshops and stores dedicated to this traditional art form. As you wander through the village, you'll be amazed by the intricate wooden sculptures and exquisite teak furniture that showcase the talents of local artisans. Many of these woodcarvings depict religious figures, mythical creatures, and stories from Thai history, providing a fascinating insight into the local culture and artistic heritage.

Visiting Baan Tawai is a unique opportunity to witness skilled woodcarvers in action, as they transform raw materials into beautiful works of art. Don't hesitate to engage with the artisans, who are more than happy to share their knowledge and passion for their craft. You may even have the chance to try your hand at woodcarving, learning time-honored techniques from the experts themselves.

In addition to woodcarving, Baan Tawai is home to a variety of other traditional Thai crafts, including pottery, textiles, and lacquerware. By visiting the workshops and speaking with local craftsmen, you'll gain a deeper understanding of Thai art and culture. As a bonus, you can take home a unique, handcrafted souvenir that represents the warmth and creativity of the people you've encountered on your journey.

How to Get There:

Baan Tawai is situated approximately 14 kilometers south of Chiang Mai city center. To reach the village, you can rent a car, car rental with driver or hire a taxi. Alternatively, you can take a yellow songthaew (shared taxi) from the Chiang Mai Gate, which operates regularly throughout the day. The 30-minute journey will treat you to picturesque views of the verdant countryside as you approach Baan Tawai.

Nearby Attractions:

Wat Phrathat Doi Kham:

Just a short drive from Baan Tawai, Wat Phrathat Doi Kham is a revered temple with a history dating back to the 7th century. The temple, perched atop a hill, features a stunning 17-meter-tall Buddha statue and a sacred relic of Lord Buddha enshrined within its golden chedi. In addition to its spiritual significance, Wat Phrathat Doi Kham offers breathtaking panoramic views of Chiang Mai and the surrounding mountains.

Ob Khan National Park:

For nature enthusiasts, Ob Khan National Park is a tranquil oasis located near Baan Tawai. The park boasts lush forests, dramatic limestone cliffs, and the serene Mae Khan River. Spend a day relaxing by the river, enjoying a picnic, or exploring the various walking trails that meander through the park's picturesque surroundings. The peaceful atmosphere of Ob Khan National Park is the perfect complement to your cultural immersion in Baan Tawai.

Baan Tawai the Village of Wood Carving Center

Baan Tawai is the village of wood-carving handicrafts. It has been known as the major cultural attraction of Chiangmai for Thai and foreign tourists. The best quality and bargains of wood carving items can be found in Baan Tawai. If you’re just here for a little souvenir shopping you won’t regret squeezing a half day tour in to your Northern Thailand schedule. Baan Tawai is the cheapest place in Thailand to find silk, antique reproductions, incense, candles, oil and soap gift packs, ornaments, lamps, bamboo products, wall hangings, frames, vases and much more. They can all be found on market stalls at tourist centres in Bangkok, Phuket and Samui, but the range is far less and the mark-up almost 200 per cent. Most the items on display at Baan Tawai are uniquely Thai, many characteristically Northern and hand made from natural materials.

Wood is definitely the spirit of the place, with a wide variety of wood carvings and others decorative items e.g. wood carving, wood-strips, gold leaf wood, antique wood, silverware, lacquer ware, hand-woven textile, basketry, earthenware, Buddhist art pieces, decore items and wall hangings. But the Thai have a knack for creativity and the range has diversified incredibly in recent years, introducing contemporary designs and ideas. Many of the shops construct teak furniture, made to order, at stunning prices. And although a bedside table doesn’t exactly fit into your suitcase, a professional packing and shipping infra-structure has developed which means you simply have to show up with your credit card.

Baan Tawai is also famous for Asian antiques, some of which rank among the world’s best. Chiang Mai is possibly one of the best places in the region to find not only valuable pieces but very authentic looking reproductions. After all, for 200,000 baht you can become the proud owner of a late-eighteenth century Burmese Buddha head made from marble or you can outfit your entire apartment with equally impressive looking copies for the same price.

Baan Tawai

Baan Tawai the Village of Wood Carving Center