This center is well worth visiting, especially if you are planning on going trekking and would like to learn how to identify the different hilltribes by their dress as well as learning something about their lifestyle.

There are displays of the various tribes’ clothing and artifacts, as well as an interesting slide show lasting about 20 minutes. The center also operates treks in the area, which you can enquire about while here, or on their website.

On the second floor is a handicrafts shop with items for sale, mostly clothing and bags made with colorful textiles, where you might be tempted to pick up a souvenir of your visit.

The center has been open since 1976. Until recently there was a high infant and mother mortality rate in the local hill tribes, but since the introduction of the Population Community and Development Association (PDA), medical supplies are now improving as is the quality of life for the hilltribe people. Thus the center performs a dual function of informing visitors about the life of the hilltribes and informing the hilltribes about ways to improve their health and quality of life.

Right next to the museum is the excellent Cabbages & Condoms restaurant, also run by the PDA, which makes a convenient lunch stop while sightseeing.

It’s easy to walk to the center, and all tuk-tuk drivers know its location if you are staying out of town.

  • What is it? A center that informs visitors about the lifestyle of hilltribe people in northern Thailand.
  • Opening hours: Mon-Fri 09:00-18:00; Sat-Sun 10:00-18:00.
  • Entrance fee: 50 baht.
  • Address: 620/25 Thanalai Road;
  • Website: www.pdacr.org
  • Where: in the city center.