The small village, a few kilometers south of Chiang Khan, is often called Ban Tai Dam because it's inhabited by the Tai Dam people. These people migrated here from Vietnam at the beginning of the 20th century and try to preserve their traditions with the help of the small village museum. There, you can discover their handicrafts, old houses and everyday objects, as well as their traditional clothing. If you come on a weekend or in the afternoon after school, you can spend time with the children, who will show you their traditional games and demonstrate their stilt walking skills. You can also learn and try out the Tai Dam folk dances yourself. The steps are quite simple. It's also possible to stay overnight with one of the village's host families. I didn't try it myself, but I have very fond memories of my two hours in the museum.

Entry is free, but to support the museum, you can buy souvenirs in the shop, such as the Tum Nok Tum Noo, small spirit houses. The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but I recommend visiting around 3:30 or 4:00 PM when the children are there – the atmosphere isn't as relaxed then. If you'd like to stay with one of the host families, you can call 084 925 0771 (mobile). Someone there speaks fluent English.

There is no transport to the village, but you can get dropped off on the main road by one of the songthaews that run between Loei and Chiang Khan. Someone will then meet you at the intersection near the Ban That police station. Call the same number to arrange this.

How to get there

How do you get to Tai Dam? There is no public transport directly to the village. However, you can get dropped off on the main road by one of the songthaews that run between Loei and Chiang Khan. Someone will then meet you at the intersection near the Ban That police station. Call the same number to arrange this.