If you’re looking to experience the authentic culture and traditions of the northern hill tribes in Thailand, visiting Long Neck Karen Village is a must.

Located in the Chiang Rai province of Thailand, this unique village is home to a fascinating group of people who have become known for their long necks adorned with traditional brass rings.

Explore the Culture and Traditions of Long Neck Karen Village

Highlights:

• The Long Neck Karen Village offers an interesting and fascinating experience where tourists can see the traditional lifestyle of the Karen people.
• The weavers of the Longneck Karen Village have exceptional talent, and their handwoven scarves and bamboo cups are beautiful.
• The Karen people are welcoming and gracious, and they are happy to share their space with visitors.

Drawbacks:

• Some visitors feel that the Long Neck Karen Village is exploiting the Karen people by putting them on display for tourists. They suggest having a program where each tribe can discuss their culture and struggles instead.
• The entrance fee of 300 baht can be a surprise to some visitors and can be upsetting.
• It’s recommended to have a guide as the locals barely speak English, and visitors may miss out on the fascinating story and culture of the Karen people without one.
• Some visitors feel guilty about visiting the Long Neck Karen Village as they believe it perpetuates the idea of a “human zoo” and that they didn’t learn much about the culture.

Learning about the Karen Hill Tribe Culture

The Karen Hill Tribe is one of the largest ethnic groups in Thailand, with a population of around 400,000 people. Their way of life and traditions are deeply rooted in their Buddhist beliefs, and they have a unique and fascinating culture. When you visit Long Neck Karen Village, you will have the opportunity to learn about their way of life, their beliefs, and their traditions.

The women of the Karen Hill Tribe are known for their distinctive long necks, which are created by wearing brass rings around their necks from a young age. This practice has been passed down through generations and is believed to protect women from evil spirits. The rings are added gradually over time, and some women can have up to 25 rings around their necks.

Experiencing Life in Long Neck Karen Village

When you visit Long Neck Karen Village, you will have the opportunity to meet the people who live there and learn about their daily lives. You can witness their traditional crafts, including weaving and carving, and purchase unique souvenirs to take home with you.

As you walk through the village, you’ll see traditional wooden stilt houses and lush green rice fields. The villagers are friendly and welcoming, and you’ll have the opportunity to learn about their customs and beliefs. You can also taste traditional Karen cuisine, which is known for its spicy and flavorful dishes.

Tips for Visiting Long Neck Karen Village

If you’re planning to visit Long Neck Karen Village, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, the village is located in a remote area, so be prepared for a long journey to get there. You’ll need to arrange transportation either by renting a car or hiring a driver.

Second, it’s important to respect the villagers and their way of life. Always ask for permission before taking photos and be mindful of their customs and traditions.

Lastly, bring plenty of cash with you, as there are no ATMs in the village. You’ll want to have money on hand to purchase souvenirs and support the local economy.

In conclusion, a visit to Long Neck Karen Village is an opportunity to learn about a unique and fascinating culture. By respecting the villagers and their way of life, you can have a meaningful and authentic travel experience that you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Reviews from TripAdvisor:

Vers
Exploitive tourism
Nov 2022 • Couples
Modify the entire experience. It is the worst in the tourism industry. Exploitation. Instead of displaying people, host a program in which each tribe can discuss their culture and struggles. If tourists want to buy their crafts, keep a shop to the side. It all feels wrong, and I’m disappointed that I went, and even more disappointed that others posed for photos with tribe members. Donations are preferred over begging.

Isma M
Fascinating
Nov 2022 • Friends
It was a fascinating experience.
It was quite upsetting because we were unaware of the 300 baths required to pay for admission.
We also went at sunset and didn’t have much time.
I strongly recommend hiring a guide because they barely speak English and their story and culture are so interesting and fascinating that you won’t want to miss it.