Ban Thong En
Ban Thong En is a loving community not far off Bangkok but full of interesting background history. It was rooted by Lao Ngaeo people herded from Vientiane and settled down in the area since the reign of King Rama III before spreading to the neighboring areas. Thus, travelers can experience the way of life, the stories, and blended traditions of their original Lao Ngaeo ancestors and the central region of Thailand, for example, Sat Lao Festival held in March of every year.
Moreover, travelers may also try several community activities ranging from making Ban Thong En’s signature desserts like Kluai Chap (Banana Chips), Phueak Chap (Taro Chips), and Thua Krop Kaeo (Candied Peanut), learning about sufficient agriculture, seasonal vegetable harvest, and choosing to stay at a homestay with the local to experience the rural way of life and fresh air before heading back to work in the big city.
The name Ban Thong En was originated from how the area was formerly covered with Thong Kwao (Thai for “Bastard Teak”) trees next to the canals and rice paddies but there was a grown tree that leaned (or “En” in Thai) its trunk to the other side of the canal. When visiting Ban Thong En, travelers can learn the sufficient agricultural way of life in upcountry, get to know Lao Ngaeo, and ride a boat to visit Wat Sai, an ancient temple of the community, and enjoy the comfortable rural atmosphere.
Highlight Activities
- Learn the sufficient agricultural path that leads to the good life quality of Ban Thong En villagers.
- Enjoy a homestay experience with the locals, the local way of life, and the countryside fresh air.
- Attend the Sat Lao Festival.
Best Time to Visit
- All seasons.
- March recommended. There is Sart Laos tradition, a big annual religious ceremony that is rare to see with a lot of activities such as Thousand Rice Ball parade, Thai folk dancer parade, farmer hat dancing, traditional dancing in a circle and folk game performances.
