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One of the culturally interesting things about Chiang Mai is the existence and conservation of many unique and colorful hill tribes.
Walk any trek around the vast expanse of this mountainous region located in northern Thailand, and you’ll find small settlements of tribes that have migrated from China or have been established there for hundreds of years. Many still conserve the same environment they had decades ago, while others have evolved with time.
Hill tribe trekking is one of the main reasons people come to Chiang Mai. Not only is it an exciting and different experience, but it’s also a way to economically support the various tribes. During my trip to Chiang Mai, I decided to trek to the Lahu Tribe Village – an intense three-hour hike up the mountain.
This is my solo hiking (with my local Lahu guide) and Lahu Tribe experience.
The Hike to the Lahu Tribe
Northern Thailand is extremely mountainous, but with a good climate – not too cold and not too hot.
This is the same trail the villagers use to bring supplies up from the city. Many of them walk these trails every day.
The mountains are peppered with different tribe settlements. Each and every one has its own customs and specialties.
Getting a well-deserved rest after 2 1/2 hours hiking uphill. I’m almost there.
The Lahu Tribe Village – Approximately 15 families/100+ people live here. The history of the Lahu people stretches over 4,500 years. The Lahu people originated from Tibet and Southwestern China, and since the 19th century, they have been migrating down to Thailand.
The Lahu household consist of families with unmarried children and maybe a married daughter and family.
A traditional Lahu house is built on stilts about one meter above the ground. The structure is made of hardwood. The roof is made of thatch, and partitions and floor are made of bamboo.
The Lahu are proud of their hunting skills, among others. This man is reshaping a machete through the traditional process of heating the metal to soften it and hitting it with a hammer.
This customized tube (pump) is used to aerate the coal to make it hotter so it can soften the hard metal to make it malleable.
The Lahu in the past always wore their own traditional clothes. But today, wearing the traditional dress is rare to find because of the influence of modern society.
A young mother with her child. Lahu weaving is considered fashionable due to the mix of bright colors, the handmade quality, and the unique style.
This kid was adorable!
Part of the family that spent their time with me and welcomed me to their home. Traditional clothes feature a black cloth with red patches; with white and blue stripes. Silver is used as their ornaments (as seen on the woman’s blouse).
Ready to have lunch. What will they serve me? Loving the simple setting.
YUMMM! This meal was way more delicious than what I expected.
A warm farewell with my guide (wish I could remember his name) and part of the family.
Returning to Chiang Mai on a different trail. The way down was equally impressive as the way up.
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