It is hard to believe that somewhere as calm and green as The Lanna Traditional House Museum CMU is located just next to Nimmanhaemin area, one of the busiest neighbourhood in Chiang Mai. The setting of this museum feels like a little village in a large garden. Forget grand palaces; this museum offers a glimpse into the everyday lives of Lanna people, transporting you to a bygone era of Northern Thai charm.
Imagine stepping into a lush green oasis, with traditional wooden houses scattered throughout like architectural time capsules. Each house, meticulously relocated and restored, showcases the unique Lanna architectural style. Think dramatic, sweeping roofs that resemble a dancer’s graceful pose, offering shelter from the monsoon rains and lending an air of elegance. Look closely, and you might spot intricate carvings adorning the eaves – a testament to the skill of local artisans.
The Lanna Traditional Museum is part of Chiang Mai University’s Center for the promotion of Arts and Culture. All the wooden houses were purchased or donated by local families to help preserve the traditional architecture of the region.
Walking in the garden, you will find Thai and English historical explanations about each house. Our favorite house is definitely the Thai-Lue House - Heaun Mon Tood or Heaun Oui Tood (house number six). Oui Tood or great grand mother Tood, was a Tai-Lue descendent living in Doi Saket District. The house was built by Por Noi Luang, her husband in 1917 from wood collected from many old wooden houses. Ajarn Sirichai Narumitrekhakan acquired this house but the relocation only started after Oui Tood passed away at the age of 109.
Other houses in the museum include Chiang Mai Townsfolk (Heuan Phaya Pong Lang Ka), Pan-Ya House (Heuan Anusarn Suthorn), Mae Taeng Folk House, Two Kalae House and some beautiful rice barns.
Stepping inside a Lanna house is like entering a world of natural materials. Teak wood, with its rich warmth, forms the main structure, while bamboo and thatch create a sense of harmony with the surrounding landscape. Open-air design elements are key, with large windows and wide doorways allowing for natural light and ventilation, keeping the homes cool during the hot Thai days.
But the most fascinating feature might be the raised platforms, known as “sala”: a cozy living space elevated off the ground, offering a cool refuge and protection from potential floods. Picture yourself relaxing on comfortable cushions, surrounded by the gentle breeze and lush greenery – a perfect spot for meditation or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
The Lanna Traditional Houses Museum CMU isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a storybook of Lanna life. Each house typically follows a traditional layout and visiting this place is the one of the most relaxing and interesting step to make in Chiang Mai.
THE LANNA TRADITIONAL HOUSE MUSEUM:
239 Huay Kaew Road, Chiang Mai.
Tel. 053-943 626
https://art-culture.cmu.ac.th/en/Museum
August 2024.
