Thailand

Showcasing the craftsmanship of San Kamphaeng district, Bo Sang (or Bor Sang) village specializes in handmade umbrellas. This art has become a livelihood for many villagers, influencing their traditions and way of life. The diverse creations are magnificent and original, serving not only as products for sale but also as decorations adorning various village infrastructures. They feature prominently in every significant event in Bo Sang: festivals, commemorations, and ceremonies.

Historical background

The art of umbrella making was introduced to Bo Sang over a century ago by the monk Phra Inthaa. His statue stands at the village entrance. According to local folklore, a generous benefactor from Burma gifted him a beautifully decorated umbrella to shelter him during his travels. Upon close inspection, Phra Inthaa discovered that the materials used to craft the umbrella were readily available in his hometown. Upon returning to Bo Sang, he taught his disciples the art of making Burmese-style umbrellas. Traditionally reliant on agriculture and livestock, the locals found this craft to be a lucrative supplemental income. Guided by the monk, they mastered umbrella making and passed down this expertise to their families, thus establishing Bo Sang as a center for umbrella artisans.

Bo Sang today

The village has grown into a national symbol of Sa paper umbrellas and is the hub of the umbrella industry in Chiang Mai province. The renown of Bo Sang's artisans extends beyond Thailand's borders, attracting tourists from around the world to visit the village. With the rise in tourism, handicrafts have become the primary economic activity for Bo Sang residents. Aside from umbrellas, they create and sell a wide array of unique products such as lanterns, pottery, fans, bird cages, and porcelain.

Must-see attractions

Bo Sang Umbrella Festival

Every January since 1980, the village hosts a grand Umbrella Festival lasting three consecutive days. Streets and homes are adorned with colorful umbrellas featuring picturesque designs. Villagers dress in their finest traditional attire, parading on bicycles or on foot with umbrellas in hand. The village comes alive with folk music and artistic performances. Photo sessions are organized throughout, capturing memorable moments. Food stalls abound, and an amusement park with rides is set up near the village school, offering enjoyment for all ages. There's even a Miss Umbrella contest, with the winner parading through the village on a float adorned with colorful umbrellas.

Bo Sang Umbrella making center

If you miss the festival, you can visit the Umbrella Making Center to witness the entire process of creating these exquisite items, from assembling various components to adding the finishing touches. The center showcases the work of talented and professional artisans and is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Small traditional workshops

Scattered throughout the village's alleys, these workshops specialize in various crafts. They include papermaking, silk weaving, woodworking, silver crafting, and custom-made umbrellas and parasols.

Artisan shops

Located primarily on the main village street, these shops offer a wide selection of handicrafts. Take your time exploring before making a purchase to ensure you find exactly what you're looking for at reasonable prices.

Practical information

Entry fee:

There is no charge to roam around Bo Sang village. All attractions are open to the public free of charge.

The best time to visit Bo Sang

Like the rest of Chiang Mai province, the weather is most pleasant from November to February. Plan your visit during this period to enjoy the best of Bo Sang.

Getting there

Bo Sang is located southeast of Chiang Mai city, approximately 10 kilometers away. To reach the village from the city, take the white Songthaew (shared taxi truck) near Warorot Market. The journey typically takes about half an hour, and a one-way fare costs 20 baht.

Nearby attractions

• Wat Bo Sang, the ancient temple of Phra Inthaa
• Chiang Mai Sudaluck and its wooden creations
• Ban Ton Pao, the Sa Paper village
• Elephant Museum
• Tube Trek Water Park is an is an amusement park.
• San Kamphang Saturday Walking Street Market flea market