Lao Song Village, Khao Yoi

Lao Song Village, Khao Yoi: The Thai Dam way of life still preserved in Phetchabun

Hello, I'm mr.hotsia. Today I want to share my travel story where I experienced the lifestyle of the Lao Song people, also known as Thai Dam in Central Thailand. This is an interesting side of Phetchabun province that many may not know well.

Previously, I traveled to visit the Tai community in Sapa, Vietnam, the Thai Dam village in Dien Bien Phu, and even the Thai Khao village west of Hanoi, which helped me understand the diversity of these ethnic cultures more. This time, knowing that Lao Song people live in Khao Yoi, Phetchabun, I did not miss the chance to visit myself.

Getting toKhao Yoi District, Phetchabun Provinceis not difficult. I drove along Highway 4, passed the Khao Yoi district junction about one kilometer, then turned left into the entrance of Ban Wang School. Driving about 150 meters further, you will find the Thai Dam Cultural Center or Lao Song Cultural Center located amidst a peaceful and lush natural atmosphere.

Life and culture still preserved

The special feature of this cultural center is the collection and exhibition of the Lao Song people's past lifestyle through replica houses, daily life tools, and the demonstration of weaving art, a wisdom passed down for generations. There is also an exhibition of original scripts that are rare to see nowadays.

I had the opportunity to watch a weaving demonstration and talk with the staff here, which showed their dedication to preserving and continuing the traditional culture. Although the Lao Song people in Khao Yoi have changed their lifestyle significantly, unlike the Thai Dam I met in Dien Bien Phu, Vietnam, who still clearly wear traditional tribal costumes.

Unfortunately, the homestay houses that once served tourists in Lao Song Village, Khao Yoi, all ten of them, have closed down. But fortunately, this cultural center is open for visits and hosts local dance performances every Saturday, allowing tourists to experience the atmosphere and learn about the arts and culture up close.

Exploring Phetchabun like a local

After visiting the Lao Song Cultural Center, I had the chance to explore other attractions in Phetchabun province, each with its unique charm, such asWat Mahathator what locals call “Wat Luang,” located opposite the province’s morning market, separated by the Phetchabun River.

Wat Mahathat is beautiful with its five-pronged prang from the Ayutthaya period and architectural elements of historical value. I walked around the temple and the bustling morning market filled with delicious food and the warm hospitality of Phetchabun people.

Local dishes you must try

If you visit Phetchabun, I recommend tasting local food with unique and spicy flavors, such as at Puang Phet restaurant in Phetchabun city, famous for its “Stir-fried Spicy Catfish.” I personally praise the intense heat from original Karen chili, distinctly different from other places. If you love authentic Thai spicy flavors, this is a destination not to miss.

Besides food, Phetchabun also has many morning markets and local eateries I have visited, like Je Som’s noodle shop or Mae Yai’s curry rice restaurant, where I took Chanchai on a trip. All places are full of flavors and impressive atmospheres.

Travel reflections

For me, visiting Lao Song Village in Khao Yoi this time was more than just tourism. It felt like going back to learn about cultural roots that once flourished and still remain visible despite changes over time.

I feel fortunate to have seen the authentic Thai Dam lifestyle in Vietnam before because the atmosphere and lifestyle here are very different, yet still charming and showing efforts to preserve traditional culture from fading away.

If anyone is interested in experiencing a new perspective of Phetchabun beyond main attractions like Khao Wang or Cha-am beach, I recommend stopping by the Lao Song Cultural Center in Khao Yoi. You will see another valuable and memorable side of Phetchabun.

Finally, I encourage everyone to open your hearts to experience the diverse local lifestyles and cultures of Thailand because that is the true charm of traveling that mr.hotsia wants you to experience yourself.