|
MAE HONG SON
is nestled in a deep valley hemmed in by high
mountain ranges, Mae Hong Son has long been
isolated from the outside world. Virtually
covered with mist throughout the year, the
name refers to the fact that is terrain is
highly suitable for the training of elephants.
Former governors of Chiang Mai used to organise
the rounding up of wild elephants which were
then trained before being sent to the capital
for work. Today, Mae Hong Son is one of the
“dream destination” for visitors.
Daily flights into its small airport bring
growing numbers of tourists, attracted by
the spectacular scenery, numerous hilltribe
communities and soft adventure opportunities.
THAI YAI CULTURE
The Thai Yai can be seen along the northern
border with Myanmar. They may at one time
have been the most numerous of the ethnic
Thai tribes that stretch across Southeast
Asia. A large group settled in Mae Hong Son.
The Thai Yai culture has had a strong influence
on the province, as can be seen in its architecture.
Although a part of the Lanna region, the indigenous
Thai Yai people living in Mae Hong Son are
faced with very cold weather during winter
and extremely hot weather in the summer, with
mist or fog practically throughout the whole
year. Not surprisingly they have had to adapt
to the environment.
As a result, their architectural style has
developed into something different from other
Lanna communities. Their living quarters are
usually built with tall floors and low roofs,
the sizes differing according to one’s
social status and position. Homes of the ordinary
folks are usually with one single level of
roof, while those of the local aristocrats
have two or more levels forming a castle-like
shape. The space thus provided is believed
to help air circulation. An interesting feature
of the Thai Yai style is the perforated designs
along the eaves which are an architectural
identity of the area.
|
