The inhabitants of Ekkarat village in Pa Mok district of Ang Thong province have made their living from drum making for over 80 years. The village delights visitors with its impressive variety of drums of all types, sizes, and designs.

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These drums range from the "Poeng Mang" (a leather-headed drum) to the "Thon and Rammana" (a set of hand drums), the "Taphon" (a barrel-shaped, double-headed, horizontal drum), the "Klong That" (a large, barrel-shaped, vertical drum), and the "Klong Khaek" (a goblet-shaped, double-headed drum), all the way to the striking, colorful northern Thai "Klong Puja" (a drum set used for Buddha worship). The most popular instrument, however—if anyone is interested—is undoubtedly the "Klong Yao" (a long, goblet-shaped drum)! This drum is a symbol of the Ekkarat community and a lasting testament to their long tradition of using these percussion instruments.

The local artisans craft drums using an extremely meticulous process. This includes selecting the right wood, turning it on a lathe, hollowing out the wood, fitting the drum neck, and preparing the drumhead. According to oral tradition, the entire process must be restarted if even the slightest mistake is made. To complete a "Klong Yao," the artisans must dedicate all their attention and energy to selecting the finest materials from which to create their masterpiece.

Location: Ekkarat, Ang Thong Province