Thai Crafts in Bangkok

Baan Baht (Monk's Alm Bowl Village)

This is last existing artisans village in Bangkok that still hammers out – by hand – the brass bowl that Buddhist monks carry with them during the morning alms round. The Baan Bat community has been producing these bowls since the late 18th Century, today less than five households still make a living selling their craft.

Location: Soi Baan Baht (south of the Golden Mount, corner of Bumrungmuang and Boriphat Roads)

Bangkok Doll Factory and Museum

The Bangkok Doll Factory and Museum houses an interesting collection of Thai and foreign dolls made by the local factory, making it fun for Thai culture enthusiasts and children alike. Both modern and antique items are on display, and you can see for yourself the ancient practice of doll making that has been passed down over the decades. There's also a shop where you can purchase your favourite doll.

Opening Hours: 08:00 - 17:00 (Monday - Saturday)
Location: 85 Soi Ratchataphan, Ratchataphan Road, Pratunam

Chitralada Shops

Initiated by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, Chitralada shops feature traditional Thai handicrafts made by local people under the Chitralada Support Foundation. 

Location: Outlets can be found on ground floor of the Decorations Pavilion in the Grand Palace, at Oriental Plaza shopping centre, and in the compound of Vimanmek Mansion.

Doi Tung Shop

This well-established brand is better known for its coffee than its fascinating lineup of handmade crafts – actually the cornerstone of the brand. Instead of pure function, Doi Tung crafts sport contemporary designs that feel resolutely Thai yet blend in with western-style homes, whether home accessories, hand-woven carpets, ceramics, mulberry paper stationery, or apparel. Most major shopping malls, such as Siam Paragon, The Emporium and Siam Discovery Center, carry Doi Tung products.

Opening Hours: 10:00 - 21:00
Location: Siam Discovery Center, 4th Floor
BTS: Siam

Koh Kret Pottery

This man-made island just north of Bangkok is home to ethnic Mon people, who are renowned for their exceptional pottery skills. But unlike northern Thailand's celadon ware or stoneware, Koh Kret's earthernware pottery has simple forms and a rather down-to-earth appeal, which goes very well as a decorative piece in the outdoor areas of your home, especially in the garden.

On Koh Kret, you can watch the craftsmen at work or try make your own pottery at one of the many artist studios around the island. The best way to explore Koh Kret, though, is to go on a cycling tour. You'll find yourself in another world - and it'll be difficult to imagine the city is just 20 minutes away by boat.

Location: Nonthaburi, north of Bangkok
How to get there: Take the Chao Phraya Express Boat to Nonthaburi (Pier N30)

Silom Village

Travel back to a time when the grandeur of traditional Thai houses hadn't been replaced with modern skyscrapers right in the heart of Silom, one of the city's most important business districts. Set among lush tropical greenery, Silom Village captures the spirit of old Bangkok through a compound of 17 well-preserved Thai antique houses dating back to the glorious era of King Rama V.

The complex features a hotel (Silom Village Inn), and a shopping arcade where an impressive collection of fine antiques, handicrafts, lacquer-finished products, jewellery, Thai silk, and furniture can be found. Besides the shopping arcade, you can also enjoy authentic Thai and international cuisine at the Silom Village Restaurant, complete with a Thai classical dance show.

Opening Hours: 10:30 - 23:30
Location: 286/1 Silom, Bang Rak
Tel: +66 (0)2 235 8760-1