Located about 13km south of Chiang Mai, Ban Tawai was once a typical rice-planting village that was no different to anywhere else. Then a few of its residents began working on woodcarvings during quiet times in the rice-planting cycle, and they found they could sell their products for a handsome profit.
Now just about every resident of Ban Tawai works exclusively on woodcarvings and the village is packed with shops selling everything from small Buddha images to life-size elephants. Many shops deal exclusively with wholesalers, but plenty of places sell retail and you won’t find a broader selection of items anywhere. Also, most shops can assist with shipping arrangements if you decide to go for something like the life-size elephant.
Even if you’re not looking for souvenirs, a stroll round this village makes for a fun half-day trip from Chiang Mai, as most workshops will allow you to observe the carvers at work, and there are several cafes where you can stop for refreshment when you need a break.
Getting There
With your own transport, head south from Chiang Mai on Highway 108 to Hang Dong, then turn left to Ban Tawai, which is a further 3km on the right (though there are shops all along this road too). Otherwise, you can take a songthaew from Chiang Mai Gate on the south side of Chiang Mai’s old city. Some tour companies include a visit to Ban Tawai on day trips of the area.
Need to Know
- What is it? A woodcarving village.
- When to go: Head there on a weekday morning when it shouldn’t be too crowded or too hot.
- Nearest Town: Chiang Mai is 13km to the north and Hang Dong is 3km to the west
- Website: tourismthailand.org
- Opening hours: 09:00-17:00
- Entrance fee: Free
- Lat: 18.68885
- Long: 98.95364