Gibbon a Helping Hand

When thinking of Phuket the words ‘party’ and ‘tourist’ automatically come to mind, and rightly so. However, just 20 minutes outside of Phuket Town’s hustle and bustle lies the serene Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre. Stepping into the Rehabilitation Centre is like discovering a new world-a world where the trees buzz with siren-like howls and the branches shake and convulse as if with a mind of their own. Initially this may be confronting, but on closer inspection you will realise that these are howls of joy and belonging, and that you are not just being welcomed into a tourist attraction, but into a home.

Phuket’s Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre provides refuge to over sixty Gibbons at a time, most of whom have been abused from a young age and used as tourist attractions. In Thailand there are over 3,000 gibbons killed each year, as families are slaughtered trying to protect their young from hunters.

The biologists and volunteers who work here adopt these cheeky, acrobatic white-handed gibbons, and teach them the ABC’s of living in the wild. Unfortunately, upon release many of these lovable animals are once again caught or killed by hunters and may end up finding refuge in the rehabilitation centre once more.

Lulu finds refuge in Phuket’s Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre after her family was killed by hunters.

The Rehabilitation Centre aims to save as many Gibbons as they can, though statistics tell us that for every saved Gibbon there are two or three who have been killed. However, it is obvious that the members of this particular family care little for statistics. They swing in their large cages and sing to each other as if for the moment this is where they belong, hoping that one day they might just make it to freedom.

 Tip for the penny pinchers:

One of the great benefits of this project is that it is solely run by volunteers from across the globe and no entrance fee is charged. Therefore, the centre has positioned itself as an intriguing activity for not only those interested in Gibbon preservation, but also those who are looking for an enjoyable day with a restricted budget. It is also recommended to visit the Bang Pae Falls, which are located a short 10 minute walk from the Rehabilitation Centre.

Tourists and locals converge to cool off in the Bang Pae Waterfall

So, You Think You Can Cook?

Culturally, Chiang Mai offers much more than your usual tourist hotspots. With a huge variety of attractions and sites the city is guaranteed to please even the savviest of travellers. However, to fully understand the culture of this magical city you must immerse yourself in the Thai cuisine, and what better way to do this than by learning how to cook some special dishes for your friends and family back home.

Throughout the Western world it seems that Thai food is becoming extremely popular with an increasing number of restaurants opening their doors to a mass of expectant customers. These days (due to an increasingly competitive environment) food quality and presentation must be of the highest standards in order to survive. Because of this demand Chiang Mai now offer a number of cooking classes designed to teach customers not only how to cook traditional Thai dishes, but also how to choose the freshest ingredients.

Student cooked yellow curry in the Baan Thai kitchen

The recommended cooking class to take when visiting Chiang Mai is the Baan Thai home cooking class, which is situated on Rachadamnern Road and boasts a wholly traditional setting ensuring a memorable cultural experience. The cooking classes are very reasonably priced at around 900 baht (around $28) per person for the entire day (about 10:00 until 4:00), and this includes not only the cooking of 7 dishes but also a guided tour of the local food markets where you will buy your ingredients for the day.

Note: the price of these ingredients is included in your initial fee, though you will have to pay for any personal food purchases while in the markets.

The cooking begins at Baan Thai

The markets are a fantastic cultural opportunity which allow you to experience traditional Thai life, while enjoying a variety of spectacularly fresh produce. Within the market you will visit a number of small stalls selling fresh food at a cheap price; from vegetables and fruit to an impressive variety of nuts, rice and poultry. You will also be encouraged to let your guide, or any of the friendly shop owners, answer any questions you might have regarding Thai cooking. Once the shopping has been completed your guide will escort you back to the school where your first cooking challenge awaits.

Baan Thai cooking instructor, Salam Mahayat, chooses the freshest ingredients from local markets

Chiang Mai: The Rose of The North

Each February Chiang Mai hosts one of the most spectacular parades in Thailand-The Flower Festival. Keeping true to its title ‘Rose of the North’, The Flower Festival gives Chiang Mai the chance to truly swing into full bloom with an extravagant offering of intricate flower sculptures of animals, temples and scenes from traditional Thai stories, as well as food markets, local handicrafts and a sensational beauty pageant. Here, Thai culture is brought to the forefront and explodes in a traditional celebration of magnificent proportions.

The Flower Festival is held each February as this is when the Thai climate is at its coolest, and also because during this month more than 3000 species of orchid-whether the calming purplish orchirds or the enticing red roses-come to bloom and reveal their dazzling beauty. It is a parade that attracts not only locals but also crowds of visitors from around the world, witnessing the old city come alive with colourful displays of floral delight.

Streets come alive at Chiang Mai Flower Festival

The parade takes place for the majority of the day and slowly winds through the streets of Chiang Mai, altering the normally rushed pace of the city to a state of calmness. If you find that you need a break from the constant floats and dazzling colours, salvation can be found in one of the many streets surrounding the parade. These streets play host to an array of small shopfronts from fresh Thai cuisine, handicrafts, fruit markets and clothing.

For those adventurous spirits who are bored of the traditional Thai food, fear not, as you have the opportunity to try some unique Thai delicacies that will be difficult to find on a restaurant menu. From deep-fried cockroaches, spiders and worms to steamed piranha your tastebuds will be treated to a range of foreign tastes and flavours.

The alternate flavours of Chiang Mai

A cabaret a day keeps the cultural ignorance away…

In our conservative Western culture ladyboys (known in Thailand as katoeys) are often viewed with a somewhat curious nature, however in Thailand they are mostly accepted and embraced by a highly tolerant society. Because of this foreign curiosity lady-boys have gained an element of prestige in the Thai entertainment business, with shows and cabarets proving to be one of the most successful tourist attractions offered. However it is not just the bright lights and dazzling costumes-or the obvious curiosity of seeing a real-life gender switch-but the unique cultural immersion that comes from witnessing a show like this. Lady-boys are a unique and accepted part of day to day life for the Thai people and, in my opinion, witnessing a show such as this is an important part of understanding the Thai culture.

Calypso Cabaret

When it comes to lady-boy shows Bangkok has a buffet of options; from the cheap and often quite confronting street shows, to the upper class spectacles of dazzling costumes, music and choreography. It is generally recommended by Bangkok locals to steer well clear of those lower class street shows, which often attract unpleasant crowds and can result in theft (or merely a waste of your money). However, by doing some easy research you can ensure that you will be rewarded with a value for money show and an enriching cultural experience.

One of the most renowned cabaret’s in Bangkok is the world famous Calypso Cabaret. There are two shows held each night at the spectacular Asia Hotel (a fitting venue for such an extravagant production).  The shows run for approximately 90 minutes each and audiences can expect dazzling lights, breathless set designs, glamorous costumes, an ensemble of seamless gender-straddling performers and, most importantly, a guaranteed bang for your buck. Audiences are also given the chance to meet the performers at the end of each production, providing a great photo opportunity to show friends and family.

Lady Boy at Calypso (believe it or not)

Tips for the penny pinchers:

When it comes to lady-boy shows it is important to note that saving money may not necessarily be the best option. Granted, the Calypso is one of the more expensive shows in Bangkok and there are cheaper options out there. However these cheap imitations will often be a waste of your money, and we recommend doing your research before agreeing to one of the many lady boys hustling the streets for business. It is also highly recommended to book your tickets before arriving at the venue (depending on which show you are attending) as the prices may differ quite substantially.

Shop ‘Til You Drop at the Chatuchak Weekend Markets

So, you think you’re a shopping pro? If bargain hunting is your thing then look no further than Bangkok’s world famous Chatuchak Weekend Markets. Here you will find the term ‘shop ‘til you drop’ to be taken quite literally. The Chatuchak Weekend Markets are an expansive 35-acre area which houses over 8,000 unique shopping stalls and, on a typical weekend, attracts over 200,000 visitors. Any local will tell you that this is the mecca for Thai bargain hunting and that there is only one negative to these brilliant markets-you will most definitely be buying another suitcase.

What’s on offer?

These markets are considered unique not just because of sheer size but because of the variety of products that are on offer. In one section you will find a range of clothing from handmade knitted products, handbags, singlets, shirts, hats, Levi jeans, shoes and shorts. In another you will be greeted by the aromas of home cooked Thai Cuisine and sweets, or perhaps a fresh fruit shake to quench your thirst. You also have the opportunity to delve into the more exotic side of Bangkok, with a large selection of unique animals on display. Ever wanted to own a Monkey or a Python?

Boy busking at markets

How to find what you’re looking for

At first, conquering the Chatuchak Markets will be daunting to even the more savvy shoppers. But thankfully there is a method to the madness. Once you have made your way into the markets you will find yourself on the main walkway which surrounds the entire market. This walkway then branches off into a series of alleyways which are grouped into sections. There are 27 sections in all, and it will require some navigational skills to remember where you have already visited. But fear not, with the help of this brief guide and the friendly market volunteers you will find exactly what you’re looking for.

Market Directory (sections guide originally published by Chatuchak.org. http://www.chatuchak.org/)

• Clothing & Accessories (sections 2-6, 10-26)
• Handicrafts (sections 8-11)
• Ceramics (sections 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 25)
• Furniture and Home Decoration (sections 1,3,4,7,8)
• Food and Beverage (sections 2, 3, 4, 23, 24, 26, 27)
• Plants and Gardening tools (sections 3, 4)
• Art and Gallery (section 7)
• Pets and Pet Accessories (sections 8, 9, 11, 13)
• Books (sections 1, 27)
• Antiques and Collectibles (sections 1, 26)
• Miscellaneous and Used Clothing (sections 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 22, 25, 26)

The weekend markets are open on Saturdays and Sundays, 09:00 – 18:00, and Fridays 18:00 – 24:00.

Tips for the penny pinchers:

Getting to the Chatuchak Weekend Markets can be a stressful exercise, though there are a number of different options available that can make this a relaxing and affordable experience.

SkyTrain

Bangkok’s SkyTrain is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to see Bangkok and has become a great alternative to the congested Bangkok traffic. There are SkyTrain stations spread throughout Bangkok (most likely within a walking distance from your hotel) and once aboard you will be taking a short trip to Mo Chit station. Upon arrival you will join the crowd of eager shoppers for a short 10 minute walk to the markets.

TukTuk

For the more adventurous travellers, it can be quite beneficial to hail a TukTuk (Thailand’s answer to a Western taxi), which will drop you at the front gate of the markets. TukTuk’s can prove quite cheap depending on how skilled you are at bargaining, though be warned that this is not the safest of travelling options. While there are few TukTuk related accidents, the bustling roads of Bangkok can prove quite daunting for some travellers. However, this can be an exciting way to see the streets of Bangkok and for a small tip can prove a convenient ride home. After a day at the markets you and your feet will be searching for all the convenience you can find.

Riding in a Tuk Tuk

Introducing Bangkok: The ‘City of Angels’

 

When first arriving in Thailand’s industrious capital, Bangkok, one cannot help but be confronted by the hustle and bustle of this frantic urban sprawl. Bangkok (known in Thai as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon), meaning “city of angels”, has grown considerably over the years and is now Thailand’s commercial, creative, economic and consumer centre.

Demographics collide in this concrete jungle as Bangkok attracts a range of people from rural villagers looking to start a new life, hip teenagers with a pocket full of cash, high society types and tourists taking full advantage of the pulsing night life and cheap lifestyle. “City of angels” is adhered to wholeheartedly by the people of Bangkok, and it is rare not to be greeted with a welcoming smile. For travellers Bangkok provides not only an exciting night life, delicious food, a continuous flow of alcohol and cheap shopping but also a unique cultural experience created by the city’s “angels” themselves.

Streets of Bangkok

For those interested in embracing the history of Bangkok, Old Bangkok, situated alongside Ko Ratanakosin, is the original royal district filled with historic monuments. If you follow the river North you will find the charming Banglamphu, a residential neighbourhood of friendly shophouses offering cheap Thai delicacies and crafts. If your historic taste buds are yet to be satisfied Dusit, straddling the banks of Banglamphu, is home to the Vimanmek Teak Mansion and the spectacular royal residence, Chitlada Palace.

If you follow the river South you can experience an entirely different riverside view of Bangkok, picturesque with crumbling buildings, grand churches and water-side residences. Nestled along the Riverside is the bustling Chinatown, which offers an array of exciting shopping options that will challenge your tastebuds and give a whole new meaning to impulse buying.

China Town view from ferry

Modern Bangkok is based around Silom, Sukhumvit and Siam Square and provides homesick tourists with all the comforts of their respective country. Shop-a-holics will celebrate in Siam Square’s vast shopping centres surrounding The Phra Ram, while foreigners craving their favourite home-cooked dish will find refuge at Th Sukhumvit, offering a range of restaurants specialising in international dishes and cuisine.

Bangkok comes alive at night

Hidden, but not forgotten: Koh Yao Noi

Located just an hour off Phuket’s northeast coast is the friendly island of Koh Yao Noi, one of Thailand’s hidden little luxuries. Bordering Ao Phang-Nga and surrounded by stunning limestone karsts, Koh Yao Noi is a deceptively large island speckled with ancient rubber trees and an assortment of cosy white beaches. However, what makes this island paradise so special is the warm energy that can be felt oozing from the pores of its inhabitants, welcoming foreigners as a new addition to their rather large family.

One of the greatest attributes of Koh Yao Noi is its independence from the mainland, and in turn it’s preservation of traditional culture. A short drive around the island will expose the untainted natural and cultural beauty on offer. From a plethora of unique flora and fauna and a scattering of small islands lining the sparkling blue horizon, to steep mountains of rubber trees and quaint wooden houses surrounding lush green fields and rice paddies, there truly is a unique energy to this culturally dense community.

Despite the natural beauty of Koh Yao Noi the true attraction lies in the welcoming smiles of its people. From arriving at the friendly port to waving that last goodbye, you will feel as if you have arrived at a new home. And indeed, one of the first things Westerners notice are the keys trustingly left hanging from the ignition of the local motorbikes.

Friendly locals offer fresh fruit to tourists

While staying at Koh Yao Noi you can take full advantage of the pristine waters by enrolling in scuba diving lessons, or merely hire a kayak and a pair of snorkels to explore the island’s undisturbed aquatic playground.

While staying on Koh Yao Noi it is important to remember that the local inhabitants have lived on this island for generations, and over 90% of families are of Muslim descent. This means that certain cultural values must be catered for (such as males wearing shirts with a sleeve and women keeping their clothes on while sun bathing). Although these rules may seem foreign to many travellers, and they are, following these simple guidelines will ensure the respect of the island’s local inhabitants and a far more culturally enriching experience.

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How to get to Koh Yao Noi?

Whether you are staying in Phuket or Krabi it is extremely easy to arrange a ferry to Koh Yao Noi.

From Krabi Town

From Krabi to Koh Yao Noi you will get a ferry from Ao Thalane pier. To get to the pier you can catch a taxi, or for a cheaper and far more cultural option you may want to board the songtheow local bus from Krabi bus station. From Au Thalane pier the ferry will take around 2-3 hours and will cost THB 120-150 ($5-6 AUS). There are three ferries per day, leaving at 10am, 11am and 1pm.

From Phuket

From Phuket to Koh Yao Noi you will catch a ferry from Bang Rong pier, and the journey should take around 80 minutes. Alternatively, you may catch a speed boat which is far quicker though more expensive. The ferry and speed boat times change quite frequently, and it is recommended to check a day prior to departure for the most accurate schedule.

Phuket, Sinner Or Saviour?

If you ask any Australian traveller where they’ve visited in Thailand, the answer will invariably revolve around the country’s undoubted tourist mecca, Phuket. However, while Phuket offers an array of secluded beach hideaways and quaint coastal towns it is the fist pumping beat of Patong, or as it has been rightfully labelled by locals, ‘The City of Sin’, which can be credited for the astounding number of ‘Beer’ singlets walking the streets of Australia.

I often find it disappointing that many Western tourists (particularly in the younger age bracket) fail to immerse themselves in the cultural beauty of this fantastic country. From the quaint street markets of Chiang Mai and the laidback atmosphere of Krabi to the heart warming local feel of Koh Yao Noi, Thailand is often taken for granted as merely a party destination with some pretty beaches. However, when visiting Phuket it becomes clear why it has become so popular over the years.

Locals often brag that Patong never sleeps, and it soon becomes clear that when the sun goes down there is not a tired soul to be seen. The streets come alive with an invigorated vibrancy as slick nightclubs light up, karaoke and live music echo through crowded streets, beautiful Thai women take control at seedy go-go bars and energetic men and women burst from small shop fronts lining the walkways.

“Hey Mr, you want DVD?”

It is a scene of sin, however when sleep is not an option there is nothing to do but revel in Phuket’s unrivalled energy.

While walking the rather confronting streets you will encounter exotic Thai dancers in school uniforms entrancing susceptible male patrons, and cunning bar mavens who are well practiced in the art of Connect Four. Their ease at claiming a handsome tip from intoxicated foreigners will astound.

For many, this ‘City of Sin’ represents a traditional culture which has been tarnished by Western values and beliefs (and not in a good way). The sexualisation and discrimination of women, the lackluster enforcement of rules regarding alcohol consumption and behaviour, the sacrificing of cultural customs such as dress regulations and even the introduction of new, westernised ways of eating. While it can be difficult to find Western foods in less travelled parts of Thailand (and what you can find is often rarely attempted by Thai cooks. Resulting in a uncooked, rubbery waste of an order), the people of Phuket have mastered the art of anything deepfried, including vegetables.

When walking the streets of this once culturally rich city the fusion of western culture confronts at every turn. A newly renovated McDonalds situated directly next to a streetside local merchant selling fresh Thai food, a local man strolling the streets with a ‘Bad Girl’ hat sitting proudly on his head and the relentless cries of “Hey moooiiittt, how’s it gooooing? You Aussie? You want to buy?” as streetside shopsellers attempt to relate to the bogan in us all.

And just when a strange familiarity to home sets in a women, half naked with a tin can and dirt layered cheeks, will quietly drop to her knees while holding her can up high, praying that she will be able to beg enough money for her children’s dinner. It is here you realise that while the swift modernisation of an otherwise traditional culture has hugely benefited many Thai people who own restaurants, hotels or other operations aimed at this increasing influx of tourists, a large proportion of locals have been unable to keep up. As prices rise and traditional ways of living change many have been forced to move from their home town and start a new life elsewhere, whilst many who stay find it difficult to survive.

Ultimately, it seems to be a double-edged sword. On one hand Thailand is growing economically due to this Western party appeal of destinations such asPhuket, though on the other hand it seems that as the rich become richer the poor also become poorer. As the opening of Japanese borders in the 1860’s and the destruction of their traditional culture due to Western influence has taught us, perhaps modern ways are not always the right way. However, for a developing country to mature it is necessary to adapt to modern ways of living, which prompts a difficult question plaguing many third world nations: is the sacrificing of some necessary for the benefit of many?

Dreaming Big

The world’s only Elephant Hospital in the world is a remarkable accomplishment for the country and is a must for all visitors to the area. Owner, Soraida Salwala’s story is truly inspirational.

When Soraida Salwala was 8 years old she found a baby elephant hit by a truck, dying on the side of the road. She ran over to the elephant and asked her father “Why can it not go to hospital?” Her father replied, “Soraida, there is no such thing as an elephant hospital and there never will be.”  It was these words from her father that inspired this young girl to develop the world’s first elephant hospital and provide care for one of Thailand’s most cherished animals.

When Salwala first told her father that she wanted to build an elephant hospital, she was told that it wouldn’t work. And after years of dreaming, when she finally proposed the project, she was laughed at and told “People didn’t care enough about elephants to donate money. They said, ‘an elephant hospital? No way.’ But that’s what I did.” Though despite strong resistance Salwala stayed true to her beliefs, knowing that the value of an elephant hospital would one day be recognised and she would be able to fulfil her childhood dream.

The elephant hospital, bordering Thailand’s northern capital Chiang Mai and Lampang, was built in 1994-one year after Salwala founded the Friends of the Asian Elephant organisation. The hospital is the first of its kind in the world and attracts much support from both the Thai people and foreign visitors. The hospital now houses 4 infirmary units and has treated more than 600 elephants with a variety of ailments.

The hospital usually keeps between 10-15 elephants at a time, with almost half of these being full time residents due to either abandonment by their owners or being donated to the foundation.

“Currently we have twelve elephants in total. In this group four have been donated to the hospital; four are victims of landmines; one has a deep knife wound; one has a severe infection due to neglect from her previous owner; one has an amphetamine addiction and eating disorder and one has a broken hind leg. Though despite difficult circumstances Salwala ensures that these elephants are receiving the best care available at the Elephant Hospital. “We are dedicated to giving every animal that comes to our hospital the best treatment we can,” said Salwala.

It is this dedication by Salwala and her team that has ensured the credibility and recognition of this unique hospital, though it has not always been easy. In the first few years the hospital had quite significant financial struggles, and Salwala was unable to afford basic necessities such as a vehicle or even a phone. Because of this, villagers were unable to get in contact with the hospital and Salwala and her team (which was at this stage quite small) would walk to the villages to treat the sick elephants.

“We treated the elephants the best we could. We would make the appointment and we would also vaccinate those who were in elephant camps for tourists.

“Today, much has changed. We now have a phone so people can call us and bring the elephants to the hospital. We also have a car so we can help elephants who are further away. This is very convenient and means we can help more elephants, but now I don’t do as much exercise!” Said Salwala.

Despite the growing support that the elephant hospital now receives, Salwala admits that there is still a long way to go before her dream will be fulfilled. “The hospital is extremely helpful but the root of the problem still exists. Wild Elephants are dying every day, and when we release them [the elephants] there is a good chance they will end up straight back in the hospital,” said Salwala.

“We have come so far from when we first built the elephant hospital. We give the elephants a special place, but what they need is a sanctuary where they can spend the rest of their long lives. Somewhere that has the facilities to care for them until their very last day. I want to ease their pain, but to also build a home for the old disabled and unwanted ones,” saids Salwala.

As the elephant population continues to decrease in Thailand, people like Salwala and her team give the country hope that this sacred animal will one day regain its former glory. And despite initial scepticism, the elephant hospital has successfully developed into one of Thailand’s most valuable animal refuges and tourist attractions.

“There is a long way to go before my dream will be reached. But there is hope, and I can see the light at the end of the tunnel,” says Salwala.

Feeding time at The Elephant Hospital (Photo by Richelle Chapman)

*Story by Sam Kilborn. Pictures contributed by Richelle Chapman. Quotes graciously provided by Soraida Salwada and animalplanet.com (http://animal.discovery.com/convergence/safari/elephant/expert/expert.html)

The ‘True’ Elephant Attraction In Thailand: Chiang Mai Elephant Conservation Centre

Bordering Lam Pang and Chiang Mai lies a care facility which shows the true love of animals that very much exists in the Thai culture. Forget the countless elephant tourist traps offered by Phuket and Kho Samui, here lies the true beauty of these magnificent creatures.

In the West elephants are often perceived with curiosity, as majestic beasts that inhabit distant jungles and bring us occasional delight through travelling circuses and zoos. However, in Thailand elephants play an enormous part in the country’s culture and way of life; representing the traditional symbol of power and peace and also acting as spiritual mentors.

The Thai people have connected with the curiosity that surrounds elephants in Western culture and have developed a range of tourist attractions such as elephant rides and shows-which have become an integral part of all tourist visits to the country. All parks will differ on what is offered, and it is generally recommended to head north if you want something more than just cheap thrills and a quick ride. There has been much controversy regarding the inhumane treatment of elephants in some of these centres and it is important to choose carefully.

One of the premiere Elephant Centres in Thailand is the Chiang Mai/Lampang Elephant Conservation Centre, located approximately one hour South of Chiang Mai and bordering Lampang. The Centre is managed by the Forest Industry Organisation, who successfully developed a sanctuary for elephants and an enriching cultural experience for visitors. There are no cheap tricks or cruel techniques here, and all elephants are encouraged to show-off their natural power and hidden talents in a supportive environment.

Elephants take riders for a bath at Chaing Mai Conservation Centre

What can you do?

Aside from the regular 45 minute elephant rides which will take you through the surrounding jungle of the Conservation Centre, there are numerous attractions that you will not find anywhere else in Thailand. The fantastic elephant show, which takes place three times daily, promotes the different skills of each elephant through a variety of tasks such as playing soccer, balancing on wooden planks and playing instruments. However, the undoubted crowd pleaser is the painting section at the end of the show.  Here you will be dazzled as the elephants show off their brush skills by painting breathtaking portraits with their trunks. These are then auctioned off at the end of the show, with all proceeds being donated to the neighbouring Elephant Hospital.

Who ever said you need hands to paint a portrait?

Another unique attraction to the Chiang Mai Conservation Centre is the making of elephant dung paper, which means exactly how it sounds-paper made from elephant dung. Because of elephant dung’s large fibre content it is widely used throughout Thailand and here you will learn first-hand how it is made. For the more adventurous visitors, you will be given the chance to make your own dung paper with some help from your friendly instructors. But fear not, locals assure that the dung is 100% bacteria free and is surprisingly odourless for those with a weak nose.

Paper made from elephant dung? Why not

However, if observing is your forte’ you can enjoy learning not only how it is made but how the paper is used throughout Thailand. And why not purchase your own dung paper at the completion of your demonstration? A variety of styles and patterns are offered and are a great present idea for family, friends or loved ones.