Bang Sai Arts and Crafts Center and Village is a tourist attraction which can be found approximately 60kms north of Bangkok. It offers training in folk arts and crafts for underprivileged people such as rural farmers, prison inmates and former prostitutes.
The center was established under royal patronage in 1976 and has grown into a hugely successful project covering over 14 acres of land. All materials used in the crafts are local and easily obtainable. All handicrafts produced are sold to tourists and the money goes to the workers themselves.
There is a beautiful pavilion which has been handmade and mirrors the traditional Thai structures which Thai people once called home. This pavilion is where members of the royal family stay when they visit Bang Sai.
Within the grounds of the center, there is a bird sanctuary which is a must-see. This center is home to many rare breeds and the bridge across it allows visitors to enjoy the birds close up. There is also a gift shop onsite which sells souvenirs. The grounds themselves are stunning and maintained by members of the center who have been trained in gardening.
Getting There & Away
The heart of Ayutthaya is just 20 minutes away and the center of this city can be reached by taxi. If, however, you are traveling from Bangkok, there are daily buses and trains to Ayutthaya from the central bus stations and the international airport. The journey takes about an hour.