Chiang Rai – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the Doi Tung Development Project are inviting Thai and foreign tourists visiting Chiang Rai to drop by at Doi Tung and learn about the fascinating lifestyles of the people who live and work in some of the area’s royal projects.

The 52-rai Production and Distribution Centre of Handicraft Products is a part of the Doi Tung Development Project initiated by the late Princess Mother to improve the lives of hill tribe peopleliving in these once remote regions of Thailand. The business was established with the aim of creating jobs and generating sustainable income for the communities in the Doi Tung area.

Many of the handicrafts for sale and on display are versions of traditional products made with skills and techniques passed down through generations. Visitors will find woven fabric and clothing, handmade carpets, ceramics and sa paper for sale and also get the chance to see how they are made by local artisans at their mini-factories. Such products are now appealing to a new generation of people who find that these traditional products fit in with their 21st century way of living.

Mr. Thawatchai Arunyik, TAT Governor said, “The 52-rai Production and Distribution Centre of Handicraft Products at the Doi Tung Development Project is a place where regional handicrafts are created and sold, and is also a thriving communal centre where people of every age, gender and ethnicity can come and work together for the common good of the community and enjoy a much improved quality of life.

The Production and Distribution Centre of Handicraft Products is also home to a weaving factory, which produces a range of hand-woven items; such as, scarves, pillow cases, tufted carpets, and fashionable ranges of clothing. These are not only good quality products, but also great souvenirs.

Visitors can observe the production process at the Centre and shop for different lifestyle products and hand-made items at the Doi Tung Outlet and Doi Tung Lifestyle Shop, both located within the Centre.

TAT Governor said, “The Doi Tung Development Project is one of the many good examples that showcase to both Thai and foreign tourists of how these Royal Projects up and down the kingdom have changed and vastly improved the lives of the local people. Tourists visiting Doi Tung will see how the people of the hill tribes and other members of the community can work together and make a good living from their ancient skills and the natural resources of the region.”

The Production and Distribution Centre of Handicraft Products is located at the entrance of the Doi Tung Development Project, Huai Krai sub-district, Mae Sai district, Chiang Rai. It is open from Monday to Saturday from 09:00 – 17:00 hrs.