Although only a small community, Baan Phra Bat Huai Tom is brimming with faith.

Phra Bat Huai Tom is a Pga K’nyau community that has been established in Lamphun for several decades (Pga K’nyau is what the Karen hilltribe people call themselves.) The Pga K’nyau elders say that they migrated to this area leaving their traditional homes behind because of the faith they have for Luang Pu Khru Bachaiyawongsapattana, a monk involved in community development and highly revered by the Lanna people back when he was abbot in this same area.

Although Luan Pu has now passed away, the Pga K’nyau remain here and abide by his teachings in relation to lifestyle and beliefs, such as living in compliance with ancient Buddhist traditions. This is clearly reflected in their diet, daily routines and interactions with their natural surroundings. The entire village is vegetarian, and they do not raise animals for food. They also give daily offerings to the monks (or ‘make merit’) at the temple, an age-old practice of Buddhism.

The awe-inspiring characteristics of their lifestyles are observable in every activity they do on a daily basis. In fact, the people even still wear their traditional Pga K’nyau costumes which are woven at home. Other than that, they also manufacture their own silverware and knives, while farming in line with the traditions passed down by their ancestors.

All of these activities exemplify the love and faith they have in Buddhism and as well as their traditional lifestyle. Join them and experience the tranquility of this peaceful philosophy.