Thung Kwao: Temple History and Handicrafts

Thung Kwao brings together local history, craft traditions, and regional architecture. Wat Thung Kwao in Ban Thung Kwao has a known construction date and a former name. In Ban Na Laem, Kup-Lon hat weaving and brickmaking are at the heart of local crafts. Wat Chom Sawan offers a different focus with its Shan architecture. This gives you a choice of history, handicrafts, and architecture when planning your trip.

Wat Thung Kwao: Construction Date and Former Name

Wat Thung Kwao was built in 1787 in Ban Thung Kwao; the temple was formerly known as “วัดโต่งกว๋าว”. The construction date is given as 2330 BE in the Buddhist calendar. The year and former name mark two historical reference points: when the temple was built and the name by which it was once known. This provides a clear anchor for local history, distinct from the architectural and craft themes found in the surrounding area.

Handicrafts in Ban Na Laem

Near Thung Kwao, at the brick kiln in Ban Na Laem, brickmaking involves several steps: clay is prepared and kneaded, pressed into moulds, then dried and fired. This makes brickmaking easy to follow as a process, not just as a finished product. Unlike looking at a temple, here the focus is on the sequence of the work and the stages from clay to fired brick.

The history of Kup-Lon hat weaving and the hands-on experience of trying the weaving are part of the community’s craft tradition in Ban Na Laem, near Thung Kwao. Unlike brickmaking, which focuses on the individual steps, hat weaving is about history and passing on the craft. If you are interested in learning about this tradition, check in advance whether a visit is possible during your trip.

Shan Architecture in the Region

Near Ban Thung Kwao, Wat Chom Sawan is located in Tambon Thung Kwao. The temple was built by Tai Yai people during the reign of Rama V and is designed in the Shan style. The entire building is made of teak; its interiors are also in the Shan style. The tiered roof is decorated with carved wooden and copper elements. The materials, roof shape, and ornaments draw attention to the construction and offer a different way into cultural history than the known construction date of Wat Thung Kwao.

Beyond individual buildings and craft themes, a 2023 report described community-based and agritourism visits in Tambon Thung Kwao, opportunities to learn about cultural ways of life, local folk music performances, and hands-on activities for visitors. This perspective focuses on community and agricultural experiences rather than a single building or a particular production process.

A Holiday Rental to Match Your Travel Interests

When looking for a holiday rental in Thung Kwao, it helps to have a clear cultural focus. Consider whether you are more interested in local history, architecture, or hands-on craft experiences.

For the broader travel guide: Amphoe Mueang Phrae.