While making my way through the Thailand province of Chiang Rai, we stopped at a small village on a dirt road. This is where I first met the Akha.
Background
Originating in China, this ethnic group has migrated across to multiple countries. The population increased in the northern provinces of Thailand due to intense civil war in neighboring countries. They continue to maintain their traditions in a modern world while attracting tourists from all over to help support their economy.
A hill people who build their villages in higher elevated mountain regions, even with close proximity to more modern towns and cities. They maintain a simple way of living. There is no system of social class. If you have traveled through most of Asia you will notice similarities. Most of the Southeast Asian cultures are similar. Respect is usually given to those with age and experience.
The Village
The dwellings of the village were all constructed from logs, thatch, and bamboo. There is no concrete or stones used in building the village. A number of the buildings had been put up by large stilts. Others remained on the dirt ground. The Akha were mostly a nomadic culture. this was a permanent village adapted to modernizing while maintaining a rustic view.
How they live in a modern world
The Akha focus of their economy is mainly as farmers. The common staple is very simple in comparison to what we have in major cities. It is basic rice with a variety of vegetables. Raised livestock is a secondary source and includes pigs, chicken, and cattle. Fishing and hunting is also used as a means of supporting themselves and the community.
They have adapted to modernization and outside world contact as best they can. They made this change by selling handcrafts and services in photo opportunities to accommodate the tourists.
Being from a major city in the United States, I couldn’t picture myself living in a place like this but I could appreciate the simplicity of living in an area like this village.
I hope you were able to learn a bit about this proud culture. Please check out our other articles here about my travels around the world.