Facebook
Youtube
The Sri Don Chai Tai Lue Community is a cultural tourism destination that showcases the rich traditions of the Tai Lue people, including their customs, weaving culture, and more. The community is well known for its unique identity, particularly in terms of culture, language, traditional attire, and handwoven textiles.
Originally, the Tai Lue people settled in Muang U Nuea, in the Xishuangbanna region of southern China. However, due to economic difficulties and population growth, along with invasions by the Chinese Haw, a group of people led by Phaya Kaew migrated in 1886 (B.E. 2429). They first settled in Doi Lak Kham, near the China-Laos border, and later crossed the Mekong River to Ban Hat Khrai (along the Duk River) in Chiang Khong District.
The migration eventually led to the establishment of three groups:
- The first group settled in Huai Miang, now known as Ban Huai Meng, Village No. 6, Wiang Subdistrict, Chiang Khong District, Chiang Rai.
- The second group, led by Phaya Janta Phatdee, returned to Laos and settled in Ban Pong and Ban Sang (Tha Fa).
- The third group moved to Ban Tha Kham, Muang Yai Subdistrict, Wiang Kaen District.
In 1949 (B.E. 2492), Kamnan Sena Wongchai led a portion of the people to Ban Sri Don Chai, where they began farming and establishing homes. By 1953 (B.E. 2496), more settlers arrived and built houses along the Thoen – Chiang Khong Road. At that time, the area was still under the jurisdiction of Ban Sathan. However, in 1957 (B.E. 2500), the Ministry of Interior officially recognized it as Ban Sri Don Chai Village.
The village’s name, Sri Don Chai, originates from the landscape, which consists of small hills (Don) and lowlands, with many Bodhi trees. In 1980 (B.E. 2523), it was officially separated from Sathan Subdistrict and designated as Sri Don Chai Subdistrict, forming what is now known as Ban Sri Don Chai.
