If you’re looking for a unique and culturally rich experience in Chiang Mai, Thailand, then Baan Kang Wat is a must-visit. This charming artist village, located just outside Chiang Mai’s old historical town, is a testament to the unique creativity and talent of northern Thailand.
Set at the base of Doi Suthep mountain, Baan Kang Wat is an incredible destination for art lovers and those looking for a peaceful escape from the city. With its vibrant arts scene, coffee shops, art galleries, and small shops run by crafts makers, there is something for everyone here.
Whether you’re interested in contemporary arts, traditional wood carving, or weaving, this part of the country does it in a one-of-a-kind manner. In this article, we’ll explore the various attractions and things to do in Baan Kang Wat, so you can make the most of your visit to this unique and charming artist village.
Location
Located just outside of Chiang Mai’s old historical town, Baan Kang Wat is a charming little artist village that is nestled at the base of Doi Suthep mountain. Baan Kang Wat is a beautiful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, and it is a perfect destination for those who want to explore the local culture and art scene.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a city in Northern Thailand that is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning temples, and beautiful natural scenery. The city is surrounded by mountains and forests, and it is a popular destination for those who want to explore the local culture and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and trekking.
Baan Kang Wat is located just a short distance from Chiang Mai, and it is easily accessible by car or motorbike. The village is located off the Suthep Road, and it is well-hidden from the traffic and chaos of the city.
The village is open to visitors every day from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., except for Mondays when shops are closed. Every Sunday, Baan Kang Wat hosts an open market from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. where visitors can find unique handmade crafts, local food, and live performances.
If you’re looking for a unique and authentic cultural experience in Northern Thailand, Baan Kang Wat is definitely worth a visit. With its beautiful surroundings, charming shops, and friendly locals, it is a true gem of the region.
History
At Baan Kang Wat, we are immersed in history as we explore the charming artist village located just outside Chiang Mai’s old historical town. The village sits at the base of Doi Suthep mountain, not too far from Wat Ram Poeng Temple.
The Baan Kang Wat Artist Village was founded in 2009 as a creative hub for artists and artisans to showcase their work and share their skills with the local community and visitors alike. The village is now home to over 20 shops, galleries, and studios, each with its unique style and specialty.
The village’s founder, Mr. Preecha Thaothong, envisioned a place where artists could work, live, and share their art with the world. He transformed the abandoned buildings into a vibrant community of artists, designers, and craftspeople. Today, Baan Kang Wat is a thriving community that celebrates creativity and craftsmanship.
Art and Craft
At Baan Kang Wat, we are passionate about promoting local artisans and their crafts. The village is home to a variety of studios, galleries, and shops that showcase the best of Thai craftsmanship. Here are some of the highlights:
Artist Village
The heart of Baan Kang Wat is the artist village, where you can explore a range of artisanal products, from ceramics and textiles to woodworking and jewelry. The village is a vibrant hub of creativity, where local craftspeople come together to share their skills and knowledge.
Studios
Baan Kang Wat is also home to a number of individual studios, where you can see artists at work and learn about their techniques. One standout studio is Akha Ama, which specializes in coffee production and roasting. The studio is run by members of the Akha hill tribe, who are known for their expertise in cultivating high-quality coffee beans.
Art Galleries
If you’re looking for inspiration, be sure to check out the art galleries at Baan Kang Wat. Here, you’ll find a range of contemporary and traditional works by local artists, as well as exhibitions and events throughout the year. The galleries are a great place to discover new talent and get a sense of the vibrant art scene in Chiang Mai.
Throughout Baan Kang Wat, you’ll also find plenty of examples of Thai architecture, which is characterized by its intricate carvings, vibrant colors, and ornate details. Many of the buildings in the village are made from natural materials like wood and bamboo, giving them a rustic, earthy feel.
In addition to showcasing local crafts, Baan Kang Wat is also a great place to learn about Thai herbs and spices. Many of the shops and cafes in the village offer products made from natural ingredients, like herbal teas, essential oils, and natural skincare products.
Overall, Baan Kang Wat is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art, craft, and local culture. Whether you’re an artist yourself or simply appreciate handmade goods, you’re sure to find something inspiring at this unique village.
Food and Drinks
One of the highlights of Baan Kang Wat is the variety of food and drink options available. Here are some of our favorite spots:
Coffee Shops
If you’re a coffee lover, you’ll be spoiled for choice at Baan Kang Wat. There are several coffee shops, each with their own unique atmosphere and specialty drinks. One of our favorites is Momo Cha, which serves delicious matcha lattes and has a cozy, inviting interior.
Cafes
If you’re looking for a spot to grab a bite to eat, there are plenty of cafes to choose from. Ohkajhu is a popular choice, serving up healthy and flavorful dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. For something sweet, head to Ice Cream Love, where you can indulge in homemade ice cream and cookies.
Garden
If you’re in the mood for a relaxing afternoon, head to the garden at Baan Kang Wat. Tea Lily is a charming tea shop located in the garden, offering a variety of teas and light snacks. Take a stroll around the garden and admire the beautiful plants and flowers.
Khao Soi
If you’re looking to try a local specialty, be sure to order khao soi. This Northern Thai dish consists of egg noodles in a curry broth, topped with crispy noodles and your choice of meat. One of the best places to try khao soi at Baan Kang Wat is Khao Soi Wachirathan, which has a cozy, rustic atmosphere and delicious, authentic khao soi.
Thai Coffee
Thailand is known for its delicious coffee, and Baan Kang Wat is no exception. Be sure to try a cup of Thai coffee during your visit. One of our favorite spots for coffee is The Sala Cafe, which serves up strong and flavorful Thai coffee in a cozy, laid-back setting.
Espresso
If you’re in the mood for a classic espresso drink, head to Akha Ama Coffee La Fattoria. This charming coffee shop serves up delicious espresso drinks made with locally sourced beans. Be sure to try their signature drink, the “Akha Latte”.
While you’re exploring the food and drink options at Baan Kang Wat, be sure to check out some of the locally made products available for purchase. From handmade ceramics to delicious cookies, there’s something for everyone.
Activities and Workshops
At Baan Kang Wat, there are plenty of activities and workshops to keep you engaged and entertained. Whether you’re interested in learning a new skill or simply want to watch a performance, there’s something for everyone.
Performance
If you’re looking for a unique cultural experience, be sure to catch one of the performances at Baan Kang Wat. From traditional Thai dance to live music, there’s always something happening on the outdoor stage. Check the schedule to see what’s coming up during your visit.
Classes
If you’re interested in learning a new skill, Baan Kang Wat offers a variety of classes and workshops. Here are a few examples:
- Art Classes: Learn how to paint, draw, or create mixed media art with one of the resident artists.
- Cooking Classes: Discover the secrets of Thai cuisine with a cooking class. You’ll learn how to make traditional dishes like pad Thai and green curry.
- Craft Workshops: Get hands-on with a craft workshop. You can learn how to make ceramics, jewelry, or textiles.
- Yoga Classes: Find your inner peace with a yoga class. Classes are available for all levels, from beginner to advanced.
No matter what your interests are, Baan Kang Wat has something to offer. Join us for a performance or sign up for a class to learn a new skill. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Personalisation and Cookies Policy
At Baan Kang Wat, we strive to provide a tailored experience for each of our visitors. We understand that everyone has unique preferences and interests, and we want to make sure that our content and advertisements are relevant to you.
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Our cookies policy is transparent and straightforward. We only use cookies for the purposes of personalising content and advertisements, and improving our website’s performance. We do not share or sell your data to any third-party companies.
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Overall, our goal is to provide you with a tailored and enjoyable experience when you visit Baan Kang Wat. We believe that our use of cookies helps us to achieve this, and we are committed to protecting your privacy and data at all times.
Conclusion
Our visit to Baan Kang Wat was a truly unique and inspiring experience. The village’s dedication to promoting local artisans and culture was evident in every aspect of our visit. We were impressed by the wide range of artistic mediums represented, from contemporary art to traditional wood carving and weaving.
The village’s commitment to sustainability and eco-friendliness was also impressive. We were pleased to see many businesses using recycled materials and promoting environmentally conscious practices.
One highlight of our visit was the Sunday market, where we were able to sample delicious local food and purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs. The market was bustling with activity and provided a great opportunity to interact with local artisans and learn more about their craft.
Overall, we highly recommend a visit to Baan Kang Wat for anyone interested in art, culture, and sustainability. It is truly an oasis of creativity and community in the heart of Chiang Mai.
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