Embark on a journey to immerse yourself in the traditional way of life of the Hmong and Lahu hill tribes at Lanjia Lodge, Chiang Khong District, Chiang Rai Province.

Gaze upon the vast expanse of the sky...

To smell the scent of the earth carried by the wind...

In recent times, the concept of community-based tourism has gained increasing recognition. This form of tourism offers a unique and enriching experience, as each community possesses its own distinct charm and identity. The diverse cultural tapestry woven across different regions presents a treasure trove of discoveries, inviting exploration and immersion. While some narratives have been shared through various media outlets, countless untold stories remain waiting to be unveiled. This presents an opportune moment to embark on a journey of learning and exploration.

This time, I had the opportunity to join a community learning trip with Local Alike, along with 3 other bloggers, on the Lanjia Lodge route, a community-based tourism village project. We will experience the way of life of the Hmong and Lahu hill tribes who live in Kiw Kaen Village, Chiang Khong District, Chiang Rai Province. There are many interesting activities, such as: observing the way of life of the Hmong and Lahu hill tribes, making batik fabric, visiting the witch doctor's house, tasting organic tea, hiking, and planting trees according to the Royal Project.

Meet Local Alike

Before we delve into the specifics of Local Alike, let's first establish a foundational understanding of the company. Local Alike is a tourism venture that fosters collaboration with local communities, empowering them to actively participate in designing tour programs and serving as tour guides themselves. This approach prioritizes sustainability across environmental, social, and cultural dimensions, ensuring that community-led management governs all aspects of the operation. Local Alike acts as a facilitator, working hand-in-hand with communities to achieve these objectives.

Therefore, the community itself is responsible for managing everything. The benefits include job creation and income generation for community members. It also helps to solve environmental problems and promote the culture of the community.

In addition to the community tourism route of the Hmong and Lahu hill tribes in Kiw Kaen Village, which was created through a collaboration between Local Alike and Asian Oasis, there are also other community tourism routes in the form of package tours. All of these can be viewed on the website of Local Alike.

From the Capital to the Northernmost Tip of Siam

Embark on a journey from Don Mueang Airport in the morning, flying with AirAsia to the northernmost tip of Thailand, Chiang Rai Province.

The journey from Chiang Rai International Airport to Chiang Khong district took approximately one hour. The road conditions were excellent, with minimal winding sections that could induce motion sickness. The only exception was a narrow and steep section near the village of Kiew Kaen. The total travel time from Chiang Rai city to Lanjai Lodge was nearly two hours.

Lunjia Lodge: Nestled Amidst Nature and Mountains

The minivan came to a stop in a small parking lot opposite the entrance gate. We were greeted by staff from Lanjia Lodge, who helped us carry our luggage to our accommodation. The midday weather was quite hot and humid, but as we entered the lodge, the temperature seemed to drop and we felt more comfortable. The staff served us a refreshing welcome drink of chilled herbal tea, which helped to quench our thirst and cool us down.

After settling our belongings, we took a stroll around our accommodation, Lanjia Lodge. This eco-friendly lodge is part of the Community-Based Tourism Village Project in Kiew Kaen Village, a community of Hmong and Lahu people in Chiang Khong District, Chiang Rai Province. The lodge is constructed entirely from natural materials, with bamboo as the primary structural element, reflecting the traditional architectural style of the local hill tribes. Each spacious house is built on stilts and features four bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom.

The spacious wooden deck of the house stands out as a highlight due to its location amidst the rolling hills. The surrounding landscape offers stunning views, including the possibility of witnessing a sea of mist in the mornings if the weather permits.

In the morning, you can watch the sunrise from the balcony of your accommodation. The view stretches to the mountains of Laos and the Mekong River that separates the two countries.

Each bedroom can accommodate two people and has a private bathroom. Mosquitoes can be prevalent in the early evening, so mosquito nets are provided. Due to the cool climate, air conditioning is not necessary, and ceiling fans are sufficient. Additionally, there are no televisions to ensure a truly relaxing experience.

The bathroom boasts a stylish and nature-inspired design, offering a clean and spacious environment. The wet and dry areas are clearly separated, and all necessary amenities are provided. Moreover, guests can enjoy the comfort of hot water thanks to the installed water heater.

The large windows that offer stunning views of the outdoors are a real eye-catcher. Imagine sitting in the bathroom in the morning, taking care of your business while enjoying the fresh air and the beautiful scenery outside. It would be a truly delightful experience.

While waiting for lunch, we sat and relaxed on the large balcony, playing, reading books. Although the midday sun was strong, we did not feel hot and stuffy at all. This may be because there was a constant breeze blowing in, making us feel cool and comfortable. This is in line with the meaning of the word "Lanjia," which translates to "cool and refreshing."

Soon, the food began to be served on the table... At first, we planned to sit and eat on the floor like a Khantoke, but for convenience, speed, and the hunger of our fellow travelers, we decided to eat this first meal on the bamboo table first. We'll decide on the next meal later.

For lunch today, we had a simple one-dish meal of stir-fried rice noodles and minced pork and cucumber soup. We all gathered around the bamboo table, eating lunch together. One thing we noticed while eating was the peaceful silence of the surroundings. Everything was so quiet that we joked that we could clearly hear each other chewing.

Amidst the natural ambiance, the meal becomes even more delectable. Conversations and exchanges of ideas commence at this juncture. We receive a brief outline of the program, including the upcoming activities and potential minor adjustments. Following our midday meal, in the afternoon, our schedule includes learning about the Hmong people's batik-making process, engaging in tree planting, and concluding with a tasting of organic tea.

The deliciousness of the Mi Sua made us all finish our plates, followed by refreshing chilled fruits.

The period after lunch is a time for relaxation. We all disperse to relax as we please, finding our own corners to sit or lie down, waiting for the time to do the next activity. After finishing our meal and being in this kind of relaxed atmosphere, it really makes you want to take a nap...

Learning the Art of Hmong Batik Fabric

The first activity of this trip is to learn about the community's way of life through batik making. We don't have to travel far, just walk across the small road to the opposite side of Lanjia Lodge. For the following activities, we will have a local guide to lead the tour, provide information, advice, and instructions on what to do and what not to do. Our local guide for this trip is a member of this community named Lanjia, which is the same name as our accommodation.

Lan Jie introduced herself and briefly explained the afternoon's program to ensure everyone was on the same page. She then led us to the batik-making site. As soon as we stepped out of our accommodation, we were immersed in the daily life of the hill tribe community.

Seeking refuge from the heat, we entered a small shed where an elderly woman, a batik-making传承人, awaited us. One thing that was immediately apparent was the warmth of her smile, which created an atmosphere of comfort and ease. *The woman spoke some Thai, enough to facilitate basic communication.*

Starting with Batik: A Step-by-Step Guide

This guide provides a step-by-step introduction to the art of batik, starting with a demonstration of the various stages involved. As this is an experimental process, we will begin with a small piece of white cloth, similar in size to a handkerchief.

Materials:

• White cloth
• Natural beeswax
• Heating source (e.g., stove)
• Batik tools for drawing
• Dye
• Sunlight for drying

Steps:

1. Melt the beeswax: Place the beeswax in a bowl and heat it on a stove until it melts into a liquid.
2. Draw the design: Use the batik tools to dip into the melted wax and draw your desired design onto the cloth.
3. Dye the fabric: Once the wax design has dried, dip the cloth into the dye to color it.
4. Dry and repeat: Allow the fabric to dry in the sunlight, then repeat the dyeing process.
5. Remove the wax: After the final drying, wash the fabric to remove the beeswax, revealing the final design.

Tips:

• Choose a simple design for your first attempt.
• Be patient and precise when drawing with the wax.
• Experiment with different colors and patterns to create unique pieces.

Remember: This is just a basic introduction to batik. With practice and exploration, you can develop your skills and create stunning works of art.

We were each given a white cloth the size of a handkerchief to try our hand at making. For patterns that might be difficult to measure by eye, for fear of distorting the shape, a ruler can be used to draw a grid beforehand.

Following this, we began to create patterns according to our imagination. However, we were unsure of what patterns to draw. Fortunately, the old woman provided us with a sample cloth to "copy" the patterns from.

**** It goes without saying that... using tools to draw patterns is quite difficult. Controlling the weight of the lines, the thickness and thinness of the lines, the amount of wax applied to the fabric, and the speed at which the pattern is drawn before the wax dries out. These things... probably require a certain amount of skill and practice. For some patterns, we try to get the old woman to help or add to the patterns. The old woman can do it perfectly.

After the pattern is drawn, the fabric is dyed in a basin. The dyeing process requires **two rounds**. In the first round, the fabric is dyed and then air-dried until slightly damp. It is then dyed again and air-dried until completely dry.

Subsequently, the final step involves washing to remove the wax used in the drawing process, leaving only the dyed color on the fabric and the original design that was drawn. The Hmong people's batik-making process can be used to create a wide range of products, such as handkerchiefs, scarves, clothing, and various garments, generating income for the community.

In addition to batik making, the community also produces various handmade goods to supplement their income. We visited the Lanjia Craft workshop, where local artisans create a diverse range of products, including bags, souvenir keychains, and other mementos.

Reforestation Project in Honor of His Majesty the King

"Let's get in the car. We're going to continue planting trees."

Following Lanjia's call, we boarded a pickup truck with a roof, resembling a small shared taxi, parked by the roadside. Our next program was to participate in a **tree-planting activity** at the **Forestry Project to Celebrate the Royal Initiative**. The 10-minute journey took us through roads under construction, forcing us to cover our noses from the dust. *This indicated that the roads and transportation would soon improve.* While on the truck, I asked Lanjia, *"If there are no vehicles, how do people from the village get to town (Chiang Khong District)?"* She replied that there might be one truck per day going to and from town to buy goods, with不定时. However, people could inquire and hitch a ride.

A car was parked right at the entrance to the forestation site, which required crossing a small stream before walking along a path into the forest. The atmosphere upon entering the forest was noticeably more lush, with a cool and comfortable breeze. We each received a tree sapling, a watering can, and a name tag for writing the name of the tree planter in the Reforestation Project in Honor of His Majesty the King's Initiative.

Right hand holding a tree, left hand holding a watering can, ready to walk into the forest. Let's plant trees together!

The walk to the reforestation site is not too far, approximately 500 meters by rough estimate. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through nature, admiring the trees and greenery along the way.

After a tiring climb up the hill, we reached the spot where we would plant our trees. To avoid wasting time, we dispersed to find suitable locations for our individual planting endeavors.

Following this, the saplings were watered thoroughly. Observing the wooden signs planted nearby, it is evident that many individuals have participated in this tree-planting activity. This is a positive development, as the saplings planted by these individuals will grow into large trees, transforming into a lush forest in the future.

Savor Authentic Organic Tea at Tea'cher Organic Farm

The sun begins to set, casting a warm glow over the landscape. We drive for another 15 minutes from the Royal Forest Plantation Project to Tea'cher Organic Farm, the only certified organic tea farm in Thailand, located in Chiang Saen district. As we turn into the farm, a sense of tranquility washes over us. The serene atmosphere, coupled with the lush green tea fields, makes it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a cup of authentic organic tea.

Stepping out of the car, we were warmly welcomed by the locals, Lydia and her partner, a good-natured dog who constantly cuddled up to us.

Here, we will savor authentic organic tea, renowned for its delicate and aromatic Oolong tea. This tea undergoes various natural processes, free from chemicals and contaminants. The prominent benefits of Oolong tea include its ability to aid in fat absorption, reduce cholesterol, provide antioxidants, and help prevent various diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases.

The demonstration showcased the art of tea brewing, tea drinking, and the various properties of different tea types. Each participant received two teacups: a larger cup placed upside down on a smaller, elongated cup containing freshly brewed hot tea.

To drink the tea, the inverted cup is lifted, allowing the tea to flow into the larger cup below. During this process, the top cup is massaged with both hands, warming them in preparation for holding the teacup. After drinking both No. 12 and No. 17 Oolong teas, it was observed that No. 12 had a bitter taste but left a refreshing feeling in the throat, while No. 17 was less bitter and had a more delicate aroma.

In addition to tea, there are also red roselle for you to try. This roselle is naturally red, making it clean and beneficial. You can grab it and eat it dry. Red roselle has properties that help reduce blood fat, lower cholesterol, relieve heatiness, and quench thirst.

Surrounded by tea plantations, the area around Tea'cher Organic Farm offers a scenic setting for an evening stroll.

Being a genuine organic tea, it is not only distributed domestically but also exported to foreign countries. There are markets in many countries that are interested in it.

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We enjoyed sipping tea and admiring the view.. until the sun began to set behind the mountains. It was time for us to return to our accommodation. For those interested in visiting Tea'cher Organic Farm, it is easily accessible as it is located on the Chiang Saen-Chiang Khong road. The farm is open every Monday to Saturday from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM.

Enjoy a delicious dinner while watching a local performance.

As darkness descended, we returned to Lanjia Lodge, where the atmosphere had transformed from the daytime. The orange glow of light bulbs illuminated every corner, casting a warm hue on the woven bamboo walls and wooden floorboards of the balcony. Our attention was immediately drawn to the meticulously prepared dining area on the balcony, complete with a woven mat, a traditional Thai khantoke table, and small cushions adorned with triangular bolsters. The setting was simply enchanting, creating a perfect ambiance for our evening meal.

Dishes were gradually served, consisting of 3-4 appetizing-looking dishes.

Once everyone was gathered around the table, it was time to eat. Throughout our stay, we were consistently impressed by the excellent service provided by the staff, who were dressed in traditional attire. We learned that the staff at Lanjia Lodge are all residents of the nearby village of Kiew Kaan, and they have received extensive training in hospitality.

For dessert after this evening's meal, we had deep-fried sweet potato with condensed milk. While it may seem like an unlikely pairing, it surprisingly complemented each other, making for a delightful and enjoyable treat.

After a satisfying dinner, a local cultural performance will be presented to tourists at their accommodations. The performance will rotate among the individual houses, with the stage being the spacious balcony of each house. The performance will be divided into two sets, each lasting approximately 15 minutes. It will feature local musical instruments and accompanying dance movements. The music is quite enjoyable, and those who feel inclined can join in the dancing.

The night is still young.. After watching the performance of the hill tribe people, we gathered around a bonfire at the activity area within the Lanjia Lodge. Although the outside temperature was not low enough to be considered cold, sitting around the campfire and chatting created a different atmosphere. However, it is a pity that the moon was almost full tonight, making the whole sky bright and obscuring the light of the small stars. Therefore, we could not see the constellations that we had planned to watch. But that was not a big problem, because just sitting and relaxing in this atmosphere was enough.

As the night falls, the air cools down, and time slips away. It's time for our campfire conversation to come to an end. We disperse to bathe and prepare for bed. The atmosphere is peaceful, with only the sounds of nature - frogs, crickets, cicadas, and small creatures - filling the air. These natural sounds lull us to sleep on this quiet night. Good night.

Good morning at Lanjia Lodge

"Last night, I slept so soundly that I didn't want to wake up."

This is a morning conversation where we all share the same opinion. This may be due to the cool, fresh air and the tranquility that has enveloped us all night. We wake up a little before sunrise, giving us enough time to take care of personal matters before gathering to sit and wait for the morning light on the balcony.

This morning, the sky is clear and bright, with a gentle breeze blowing intermittently. The atmosphere is incredibly refreshing. The birds flying out to feed are flitting around, chirping merrily, making one feel even closer to nature. And before long, the sun rises above the horizon, signaling the start of a new day.

Next, we will continue to have breakfast together in the warm sunshine. The staff began to prepare breakfast and serve it one after another. It was a wonderful breakfast in a great atmosphere.

A simple yet appetizing breakfast, perfect for enjoying the warmth of the morning sun.

Waking up to a fresh morning, I admire the scenery in front of my accommodation. Sipping hot coffee and warm bread, it's another kind of bliss.

Our simple breakfast with a variety of egg dishes.

After breakfast, the group sought a comfortable spot to relax and allow their food to settle. This interlude served as a transition before their next morning activity.

Experience the Local Way of Life: A Walk Through the Villages of the Hmong and Lahu

Our local guide, Lanjia, met us at the appointed time. This morning's activity was a walk through the Hmong and Lahu villages to experience the lifestyle of the local hill tribe communities. What is their way of life like? This was an opportunity to learn about the community and gain new knowledge as a life experience. First of all, Lanjia took us to a pavilion at the entrance of Lanjia Lodge to watch a video about the history of the local tribes. The video covered their way of life, clothing, occupations, and community management.

After watching the video, it's time to explore the real village. The walking distance is not too far, within a radius of 1 kilometer in this community. You can walk comfortably with fresh and clean air. *However, the only obstacle is the heat from the sun.*

As we continue our walk, we begin to observe the lifestyles of the local community. Traditionally, the majority of the community members were farmers, leading to increased deforestation. However, the introduction of tourism has played a crucial role in conservation efforts, promoting sustainable tourism-related occupations such as weaving, batik-making, and various service industries. Consequently, deforestation for agricultural purposes has decreased.

How to distinguish Mien and Lahu houses in a community

When visiting a community, it can be challenging to differentiate between Mien and Lahu houses. However, several key features can help you identify each type.

Mien houses:

• Built directly on the ground with compacted soil.
• Constructed primarily with softwood.
• Walls made of bamboo.
• Roofs thatched with cogongrass or palm leaves.
• Lack windows due to the cold climate.

Lahu houses:

• Typically raised on stilts with a high foundation.
• The space beneath the house is used for storing firewood.
• Roofs thatched with cogongrass.

"Next, we will visit the witch doctor's house..."

As Lanjia uttered these words, a strange excitement surged through us, accompanied by an inexplicable sense of mystery. We approached the entrance of a house, its weathered wooden fence adding to the mystical atmosphere. One by one, we filed through the gate.

Stepping inside, we were met with near darkness. The bright sunlight outside had left our eyes struggling to adjust to the dim interior. As our vision gradually cleared, we began to observe our surroundings. A ceremonial platform came into view, along with long wooden chairs for patients or visiting relatives to wait during rituals. Animal bones strung with rope hung from various corners of the walls.

While the imagery and ambiance might appear intimidating, the shaman (or "spiritual guide") does not focus on black magic, dark arts, or anything of that nature. Instead, the shaman acts as a counselor for the villagers, offering guidance and support.

We greeted the shaman and maintained our composure to show respect for the location. Lanjia explained the shaman's history and responsibilities, and we were encouraged to ask any questions we had. Lanjia served as our interpreter during the conversation. As Lanjia spoke with the shaman in the local dialect, the shaman raised a collection of objects resembling human-shaped flags planted around the area. We learned that three spirits were currently imprisoned there. These spirits served as the shaman's assistants in various rituals, including healing. For instance, if a villager's illness persisted after seeking treatment at a hospital, they would turn to the shaman. The shaman would then consult the imprisoned spirits, asking, "Has the patient been harmed by an evil spirit? And how can this be remedied?" This exemplifies one of the beliefs and practices that have been passed down through generations.

The shaman cited another case where a foreigner sought his help by sending a photograph of himself through the mail. The foreigner was suffering from neck and back pain that no treatment could alleviate. After the shaman examined the photograph and performed a ritual to ward off evil spirits, the foreigner's pain subsided.

Furthermore, upon observing the surroundings inside and outside the witch doctor's house, we noticed bamboo woven into peculiar symbols. This sparked our curiosity, and upon inquiring with the witch doctor, we received the following response: "These are" protective measures to prevent ghosts from entering the house.

From the spirit doctor's house, we continued walking through the village. At this point, we were at a high vantage point, offering views of the mountains on the Lao side and the Mekong River.

The small shop, with its limited selection of goods, also serves as a place for rest, a meeting point, and a space for community members to engage in conversation.

Integration of Traditional Agricultural Practices with Modern Technology

Education is crucial, and this community has a school where students appear focused and dedicated to their studies.

The sun's heat intensified... We hurried to another village, which was not far away.

Villagers have different responsibilities. Along the way, villagers can be seen weaving bamboo, selecting seeds, and repairing their homes, each according to their individual duties.

**Wood sheds** are a common sight in every household, as firewood remains an essential element in cooking.

Upon entering the house of another shaman, we were immediately struck by the various implements laid out on a table. These instruments, we realized, were employed in the performance of ritual ceremonies.

Before the explanation and demonstration, the shaman welcomed us with hot tea served in cups made from bamboo cylinders. Notably, when drinking the tea, one must drink from the side of the cup with the higher rim.

The demonstration then moved on to the use of various tools in exorcism and warding off evil spirits. As before, our understanding of the shaman's practices was facilitated by the interpreter, Lan Jie. We learned that... not just anyone can become a shaman, but rather they are chosen. And once chosen, they remain so forever...

This is... a device that appears to be used for divination, to predict whether the desired outcome will be achieved and how to solve the problem.

The shaman demonstrated the exorcism ritual, covering their face with a cloth to prevent the spirit from recognizing them and seeking revenge. The ritual began with the shaman shaking instruments in both hands to ward off evil spirits. This shaking, according to the shaman, must continue for three hours. Throughout the ceremony, an assistant continuously struck a gong-like instrument.

And then... it was time for us to say goodbye to the Hmong and Lahu communities, as well as to our skilled guide, Nong Lanjia. After exploring the communities and experiencing their way of life, we returned to our accommodation to collect our belongings in preparation for our journey to the next destination.

The Golden Triangle: A Crossroads of Three Nations

Descending from the mountain, we stopped by the Mekong River at the Golden Triangle, a tri-border area where Thailand (Chiang Rai Province), Laos (Bokeo Province), and Myanmar (Tachileik, Shan State) meet. The area forms a triangular shape where the Mekong River separates Thailand and Laos. It is a significant economic hub for the region.

Besides enjoying the view of the Mekong River, visitors can also pay homage to the Nava Lan Tu Buddha and the Chiang Saen Si Phaen Din Buddha at the Golden Triangle.

It is now exactly noon, so we are having lunch at a riverside restaurant in the Golden Triangle, as planned. The menu features dishes made with fresh Mekong River fish, and the food is delicious! Everything we tried was tasty!

After a satisfying meal, we took a stroll to admire the scenic views along the Mekong River. The image clearly depicts the border demarcation between the three countries.

If you're looking for a scenic boat ride, there are chartered boats available for rent to cruise through the confluence of the Thai, Lao, and Burmese borders. **Boat rentals range from 500-1000 baht**, depending on the size of the vessel. This is another interesting activity to consider.

Visitors come to pay respects to the sacred Buddha statue, Phra Buddha Nawalanthue, a Chiang Saen Buddha statue of the Four Reigns, built to commemorate His Majesty the King. (The original statue sank into the Mekong River during the reign of King Rama III.) The statue is made of bronze, gilded with chrysoberyl, and weighs 69 tons. It has a lap width of 9.99 meters and a height of 15.99 meters. The Buddha sits on a large Kusoltham glass boat. The majestic statue stands prominently by the river, offering a truly breathtaking sight.

Earthen Art of Ban Doi Din Daeng

Before entering Chiang Rai city, we have a program to visit the artwork at Baan Doi Din Daeng, which is both a house, studio, and factory of Professor Somlak Panthibun, a Chiang Rai artist who creates art from sculpting. Professor Somlak Panthibun studied sculpting from renowned ceramic artists Professor Twao Onuma and Tarouemon Nakagato on Kyushu Island, Japan, for five years before returning to his hometown in Chiang Rai and establishing Baan Doi Din Daeng in 2000.

The core concept of Doi Din Daeng houses involves utilizing locally sourced or nearby soil, incorporating natural materials throughout the construction. Natural pigments derived from leaves, seeds, and ash are used for surface coatings. Notably, the houses are hand-molded, eschewing the use of machinery.

**Baan Doi Din Daeng** comprises multiple buildings serving various purposes. The majority of these structures are constructed from earthen materials, including the factory building where ceramic pieces are produced, the studio showcasing ceramic works, the retail space offering various products and souvenirs, and a café nestled amidst lush greenery.

After a cup of coffee to shake off the afternoon drowsiness, it's time to take a walk around Ban Doi Din Daeng. Here, you can witness the intricate process of ceramic production up close. The journey begins with clay preparation, where a dedicated room houses a sifting process to achieve the desired fineness. Notably, the clay originates from various sources, each contributing distinct colors and qualities to the final product.

Once the clay is prepared, it is shaped into various desired forms using hand molding. This stage requires high concentration and patience.

Decorate the finished work further, depending on its intended use.

The workpiece then enters a resting phase before the firing process. During this phase, the workpiece must be left to rest to allow the moisture to evaporate completely. This can take a considerable amount of time, with some pieces requiring up to four years!

When the time is right for firing, the pieces are placed in the kiln, where they are fired at the appropriate temperature and duration. This results in strong and durable pieces.

The final step is to check the completeness of the work before proceeding with the order.

Let's take a look inside another building, which houses a ceramic art exhibition by Professor Somluck Puntiboon.

The interior of the building houses a diverse collection of artworks, each drawing inspiration from the surrounding natural environment. For instance, various seeds have been transformed into large-scale art installations. Even seemingly discarded objects, imbued with an artistic sensibility, have found their place within the exhibition.

The final building we entered was a shop selling products and souvenirs from Ban Doi Din Daeng. There were many interesting items to choose from, making it a great place to find a unique souvenir to take home.

Heaven within reach at Heaven on Earth Farmstay

The journey back to the heart of Chiang Rai is almost complete, but there is still one important place left to visit: Heaven on Earth Farmstay. Upon first hearing the name "Heaven on Earth," one cannot help but believe that this place must offer something special and that happiness and comfort are sure to be found here.

A Haven on Earth: A Farmstay Story

Our car came to a halt within the farmstay, surrounded by a diverse array of cultivated plants and herbs. The efficient use of space was immediately apparent. We were warmly welcomed by Mr. To-Chookiat Vesarachchaphong, the eldest son, who provided us with a close-up look at the farmstay. Mr. To recounted the history and origin of the farmstay, sharing:

Several years ago, Mr. To and his family lived and worked like typical city dwellers. However, one day, Mr. To's father fell ill with a blood clot in the brain, resulting in numbness throughout his body. Despite ongoing treatment, his condition did not improve. This led to the idea that it would be better for his father to return to a healthy environment and be closer to nature.

Thus, "Heaven on Earth Farmstay" was born.

Many people may wonder... What is interesting about Heaven on Earth Farmstay? Mr. To took us on a tour around the area, starting from the organic vegetable and herb gardens. We saw the drying process for making herbal tea. In another corner, there is a stylish coffee shop where you can sit and sip coffee surrounded by nature. There is a corner for craftwork, handicrafts, and souvenirs, including ceramics. You can try your hand at pottery making yourself, with demonstrations from Mr. To. And there is also a homestay accommodation available here.

This place is famous for its herbal tea. As Mr. To said, "My mother used to grow various herbs around the house, but the profit was quite low. So, I thought of adding value by making herbal tea. I experimented with different formulas until I was able to produce six types of herbal tea that are now available for sale." These are lemongrass tea, butterfly pea tea, roselle tea, bael fruit tea, chrysanthemum tea, and gynostemma tea.

Herbal tea can be enjoyed hot or cold. We first tried the butterfly pea tea with ice. It was refreshing and a great way to cool down on a hot day.

These herbal teas offer a variety of health benefits, including:

• Bael fruit: Relieves flatulence, constipation, and indigestion, and alleviates fatigue.
• Butterfly pea flower: Promotes eye health and improves blood circulation.
• Roselle: Quenches thirst, expels phlegm, relieves coughs, reduces fat, and promotes urination.
• Jiaogulan: Lowers cholesterol and blood lipid levels.
• Lemongrass: Quenches thirst, relieves heat, and alleviates cold symptoms.
• Chrysanthemum: Quenches thirst, relieves internal heat, expels gas, and helps eliminate toxins from the body.

Next, try a steaming cup of fragrant chrysanthemum tea, served in a stylish ceramic cup. The ceramic cups, plates, and bowls are all the work of Mr. To himself, and each piece has a unique design and pattern. This is one of the charms of ceramic work...

The item that piqued our interest the most, and which you, To, were eager to present, was the butterfly pea latte.

Mr. To demonstrated the making of Butterfly Pea Latte, explaining that he wanted to incorporate tea into the coffee shop's menu. He created this drink using an espresso machine, a precise amount of butterfly pea extract, and steamed milk. The result is a vibrant blue Butterfly Pea Latte, a departure from the traditional brown coffee.

The butterfly pea latte is served in a ceramic cup. Upon tasting, one experiences a lingering sweetness, the aroma of coffee, the creamy sweetness of milk, and the vibrant color of butterfly pea harmoniously blended together.

We sampled various food and beverage options and chatted with Mr. To for a while. It was time for us to head back, even though we were reluctant to leave the relaxing evening atmosphere. We will definitely return, especially during the winter season. It's a must-visit.

As the sun began to set, we bid farewell to Mr. To and his family and departed from Heaven on Earth Farmstay. We headed towards Chiang Rai Airport to prepare for our return to Bangkok. Before reaching the airport, we stopped to refuel with a final dinner in Chiang Rai before embarking on our journey back to Bangkok. We arrived safely, concluding our memorable trip.

Traveling with Local Alike significantly enriched my travel experience, offering new perspectives and insights into community life that would have been difficult to access on my own. Through firsthand experience, I gained valuable knowledge and insights. If you're interested in community-based tourism, I highly recommend giving it a try.

Thank you for joining us on this journey.

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Chailai Backpacker: Adventure Travel

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