The Bo Sang Umbrella Village in Chiang Mai is located nine kilometers east of Chiang Mai on the Chiang Mai – Sankampaeng Road. The village was once a part of the ancient Lanna Kingdom and has a unique charm and character of its own, which can be noticed in its treasure trove of beautiful temples and fertile rice fields.
The people of Bo Sang celebrate their traditional craft and skills with the annual Umbrella Festival. It features contests, exhibitions, a Miss Bo Sang pageant and, of course, stalls selling umbrellas and other handicrafts.
Umbrellas made from brightly coloured Sa paper have traditionally been made in the area around Ban Bo Sang for many years and, with the help of the tourist industry, this once-small craft has developed into big business. Almost everyone in this small village near Chiang Mai now derives a livelihood from making these paper umbrellas, which are intricately painted with beautiful floral designs. Different households often specialise in one particular stage of the production process.
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Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.  Bo Sang Umbrella Parade |
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.  Bo Sang Bicycle Parade |
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Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.  Umbrellas on display at Bo Sang |
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.  Decorating Umbrellas at Bo Sang |
During the annual event the Bo Sang Umbrella Village in Chiang Mai is brightly decorated and craft shops and stores line on both sides of the street to display their items including the colorful umbrellas and traditional lanterns. You can also engage in a round of healthy bargaining with the shop owners. This is undoubtedly the best time to buy world renowned umbrellas from the village. During this festival, many contests, exhibitions, cultural performances, local entertainment and a variety of shows are held day and night.
The 28th Annual Bo Sang Umbrella Festival will be held this year between from January 21-23, 2011. To get to the Bo Sang Village from Chiang Mai City, take the Chiang Mai – Sankampaeng Rd, and turn left on to Bo Sang – Doi Saket Rd. The entrance to the village is only a few metres from the intersection.
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Bo Sang Umbrella Village Map
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