“Padaung” – The Long-Neck Karen Dolls

Amid the misty mountains of Mae Hong Son, a province renowned for its rich ethnic diversity, the Padaung—also known as the Long-Neck Karen—stand out as a community with a globally recognized identity. Residing in several villages along the border, Padaung women are distinguished by the brass rings worn around their necks, a unique cultural expression that symbolizes beauty, faith, and deep-rooted traditions passed down through generations. This profound cultural heritage has been gracefully transformed into a meaningful form of folk art: the Long-Neck Karen Dolls. These delicately hand-carved wooden dolls are far more than souvenirs or decorative pieces—they are cultural emissaries. Each doll offers a gentle yet powerful introduction to the lifestyle, beliefs, and traditional art of the Padaung people.

Produced with care by a group of local women from Ban Huai Pu Kaeng Village, in Pha Bong Subdistrict, Mueang District, Mae Hong Son, these dolls are made using natural materials such as fine softwood, handwoven cotton, and carefully coiled brass wire to represent the signature neck rings of Karen women. Each stage—wood selection, intricate carving, and the meticulous dressing of the dolls in traditional tribal attire—is done entirely by hand. This process ensures that each piece is not only a product of craftsmanship but also a heartfelt expression of cultural identity by skilled artisans who deeply understand their own heritage.

What makes these dolls particularly special is their attention to detail—expressive postures, distinctive facial features, and traditional clothing adorned with patterns unique to the tribe. The proportionally wrapped brass neck rings further enhance the authenticity of the design. More than a keepsake, the Long-Neck Karen Doll fosters cross-cultural understanding and adds value to local traditions that are increasingly under pressure from modern influences. These dolls have become a favorite among both Thai and international tourists—especially those with an interest in ethnography, folk culture, and meaningful souvenirs. Beyond aesthetics, they serve as a key income source for the local community, fostering cooperative production, skill development, and youth involvement in sustaining traditional crafts. Choosing to purchase a Long-Neck Karen Doll is not just about supporting local artistry—it’s an act of preserving cultural identity and strengthening the grassroots economy through a creative, globally accessible cultural product. Visitors are warmly welcomed to Ban Huai Pu Kaeng to witness the production process, meet the artisans, and purchase the dolls at fair prices. The visit also offers an authentic opportunity to experience and learn about ethnic culture firsthand.

Crafted by: Local artisans of Ban Huai Pu Kaeng Village

Location: Pha Bong Subdistrict, Mueang Mae Hong Son District, Mae Hong Son Province

Directions: From Mueang Mae Hong Son District, take Highway 108 south for approximately 7.2 km, then turn right onto Route 3018. Continue for another 18.1 km until reaching the parking area by the Pai River, across from the village.

Map: https://url.in.th/ocQJm