An introduction to Thai culture: music, dance, art, Buddhism, etiquette and festivals

Thai culture

Grace and beauty are paramount in Thai culture

Thailand displays some very distinct and refined culture, developed over the centuries from early Lanna flourishings through to the golden ages of Sukothai and Ayutthaya and beyond. This includes, costume, dance, music, social graces such as the famous 'wai' greeting, architecture, religious art, wood carving and sculpture. Even in the modern era the Thais, who have a knack for creativity and aesthetics, have stamped their own identity with some commendable contemporary design, and Chiang Mai is an ideal place to delve into Thai culture. The city has a very attractive art and craft trade, often involving traditional methods that have been passed down through generations.

Indeed the Lanna Kingdom can be regarded as the cradle of some Thai culture, seeing as it came into being and flourished long before the greater kingdoms that followed. Under the patronage of King Mengrai in the 14th century, Lanna art blossomed as influences from the existing Mon culture were blended with artisans imported from Shan states (Burma). Later, the influence of monks returning from Sri Lanka, as well as the neighbouring Angkor and Lan Xang kingdoms added to the style. The region of Northern Thailand remained semi-autonomous through to the early 20th century and consequently developed and preserved many unique aspects of culture. Even today, classic Thai culture remains undiluted and its charming, unique and perfectly executed music, dance, architecture and art can be widely seen.

The Akha tribe wear a distinctive headdress

Northern Thailand is also uniquely the home to a variety of interesting hill-tribes, such as the Hmong, Karen, Shan (Tai Yai), Akha, Lisu, Lahu and Mien, many of whom have migrated into the region from the Asian interior. With them, they have brought unusual customs and colourful costumes/dress (which they continue to wear in everyday life). Although unsophisticated and poor, they manage to maintain these minority cultures. The Tribal Museum in Mae Rim displays this fascinating aspect of Thailand.

The Northerners themselves are distinct sub-group of the Thai, called themselves Khon Mueng, and speaking a Northern dialect known as Kham Mueng. Even in the twenty first century they enthusiastically guard their Lanna identity with dress, music and cultural expression that is proudly displayed, even in a contemporary fashion. People of the North are famously more relaxed, slow and laid-back than those in Bangkok.

Thai culture

Etiquette:

Thai art, dance and music:

Buddhism:

Festivals in Chiang Mai:

Museums in Chiang Mai:

Hill tribes: